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The kite was invented in China more than 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period, by the famous Chinese philosopher Mozi. It is believed he crafted a "flying bird" out of a piece of wood that flew in the sky for a whole day. Visitors to Beijing like to buy a beautiful Chinese kites as gifts when they go shopping in the city.
The kite was invented in China more than 2,500 years ago, during the Spring and Autumn Period, by the famous Chinese philosopher Mozi. It is believed he crafted a "flying bird" out of a piece of wood that flew in the sky for a whole day. Visitors to Beijing like to buy a beautiful Chinese kites as gifts when they go shopping in the city. [i:21:j]Before they were widely used for leisure purposes, kites were mostly used by the Chinese military to accomplish a range of missions: test the wind, measure distance, aid communication, and even help people escape. In modern times, kites are mainly used for entertainment. International events are held around the country where people fly kites to show off their special kite-making and kite-flying skills. Cultural Note: The famous Battle of Gaxia was won by a Han general who achieved victory by weakening his enemy's will to fight. He did this by ordering his soldiers to sing songs that reminded the enemy soldiers of their homes. He also flew kites with flutes attached that made music to accompany the singing. Hearing this, many of the enemy soldiers felt homesick and fled the battlefield. Kites were used more as a tool for entertainment than a military instrument during the Tang dynasty. At first, only royal family members could play with kites. Later it became popular among commoners who flew them on important events and festivals. But the function of kites as a military device was never completely gone, and came back with force in the Ming dynasty. Generals of the Ming army found it very effective to surprise and shock enemy soldiers with kites that dropped explosives on their camps. Kites were used as a primitive type of bomber. Different kite-making styles have developed in different regions of China over the years. The six "Kite Cities" have their own unique styles: Beijing, Kaifeng, Tianjin, Weifang, Nantong, and Yangjiang. Weifang is sometimes called the "Kite Capital of the World." It is believed the first kite was invented in this city. The largest kite museum in the world is here, and it covers an area of over 8,100 square meters. Every year, kite fans from all over the world come to Weifang to watch and take part in the annual International Kite Festival. The local kites are famous for their sophisticated craftsmanship. Beijing's kites are most famous for their beauty. Some of the most exquisite kites in China were made here, since a lot of the local kite artisans were hired by the emperors themselves. There are three famous local styles developed by three kite masters: Cao Xueqin, Jin Fuzhong, and Ha Changying. Their kites are known for their cultured design, vivid patterns, and light body. [i:22:j]Kites produced in the other four "Kite Cities" are also famous for their distinct styles. Kites made in Nantong, for example, are able to produce beautiful sounds in the sky because of whistles attached to them. When shopping for kites in Beijing's shops, select the ones that are made of good materials and demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship. As far as the material goes, if you want to use your kite more as a decoration, you should choose one that is made of pure silk; if you want to use your kite mainly for flying, one that is made of nylon would be ideal for you. Kite frames are usually made of bamboo or metal. Remember to check the frame to see if it is broken or has cracks. Go with a personal shopping assistant in Beijing for professional advice. More information: Author A. Lao has studied Chinese arts and crafts for years. He now works with a Personal Shopper in Beijing who brings visitors to great Chinese shops. From time to time, he plans personal shopping trips.
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