animal symbolism, astrology, chinese influence, cultural traditions, dog, dragon, east asian culture, eto, folklore, horoscope, horse, japan, japanese zodiac, juunishi, lunar calendar, monkey, myth and legends, ox, personality traits, pig, rabbit, rat, rooster, sheep, snake, tiger, wild boar, zodiac animals

The Japanese Zodiac: Which Animal Are You?

Japan is a country steeped in rich cultural traditions and folklore. The Japanese have a deep connection with nature, reflected in their symbolic use of animals.  These creatures, whether real or mythical, have profound meanings in Japanese society. Over time, they have been woven into 12 zodiac animals known as juunishi, each representing a year ...

Nathan Machoka

Twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac.

5 Powerful Signs of the Chinese Zodiac

On the surface, some people do not appear to be special. They have no status and lead a normal life working 9 to 5 seemingly without ambition or aspiration. Little do people realize that these people are actually working hard in preparation for their future. In addition, they are powerful; eventually, such people will come ...

David Jirard

A display of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac.

A Beggar With Supernormal Powers Made a Painted Dragon Come Alive

There is a Chinese medicine shop called Zhu Yangxin in Dajing alley of Hangzhou City. According to legend, there used to be a lame beggar, Li Tieguai, whose legs and feet were damaged, yet he had supernormal powers. One day, he went to the shop and begged the owner: “Sir! I am hungry, and my ...

Helen London

Plum blossoms.

A Magnificent Hotel With Mysterious Tunnels

Located on the Yuanshan (Round Mountain圓山) and overlooking Taipei City and the Keelung River, the Grand Hotel (圓山飯店) is a splendid, eye-catching landmark full of historical significance. It is believed that the hotel was constructed in response to a suggestion by Madame Chiang (Soong Mei-ling), wife of Taiwan’s late president Chiang Kai-shek, to accommodate international dignities. It is also ...

Billy Shyu

The Grand Hotel.