Top 10 Weird Traditions In China You Should Know

China is a country that has a rich and long history, and with this history comes a number of unique and fascinating cultural and traditional practices. From the ancient practice of foot binding to the bizarre custom of eating dog meat, Chinese culture has a number of strange customs that may surprise and even shock many people. These unique traditions are often rooted in superstition and ancient belief, and are still practiced today in many parts of China. Here are the Top 10 Weird Traditions in China.

1. Foot Binding

The practice of foot binding is one of the strangest and most uncomfortable customs to have originated in China. Foot binding was a common practice in the imperial courts of China during the Song dynasty (960-1279), and was seen as a sign of beauty, wealth, and status. The process involved wrapping the foot in tight strips of cloth and binding it with cords until the toes of the foot were forced underneath the sole, and the foot was bound into a crescent moon shape. This process caused a great deal of pain and discomfort, and could result in the loss of blood circulation and even deformity of the foot. Fortunately, the practice of foot binding was abolished in 1912 and is no longer practiced in modern-day China.

2. Eating Dog Meat

Eating dog meat is a tradition that has been practiced in China for centuries. Although it is not widely accepted by all Chinese people, there are certain regions of the country where eating dog meat is still seen as an acceptable custom. Dog meat is typically prepared by boiling, stewing or frying, and is believed to have medicinal properties that can help to boost energy levels.

3. Ghost Marriage

Ghost marriage (also known as spirit marriage) is a strange tradition that is still practiced in some parts of China. This custom involves a deceased person being married to a living person in order to ensure that their spirit is taken care of in the afterlife. This custom is believed to bring peace and harmony to the deceased person’s spirit, as well as providing the living person with a companion in the afterlife. Ghost marriages were most common in the 19th century, but the practice is still seen in some rural areas of China today.

4. Face Changing

Face Changing is a traditional form of Chinese theatre that dates back to the 12th century. In this performance, the actor wears a mask that can be changed quickly and dramatically during the performance in order to show different emotions and characters. The masks are made from a special kind of paper that is soaked in water and then molded into the desired shape. This practice has been seen in many different parts of China throughout the centuries, and is still practiced today.

5. Funerals Before Birth

Funerals Before Birth is another strange tradition in China. This practice involves holding a funeral ceremony for a baby before it is born. This custom is believed to bring good luck to the unborn child and ensure a smooth delivery. The ceremony typically involves burning joss sticks, paper offerings, and other ritual items, as well as offering prayers to the gods and ancestors.

6. Ancestor Worship

Ancestor worship is a common practice in China, and is believed to honor the deceased ancestors and bring good fortune to the living. This custom involves offering food, burning incense, and bowing to the ancestors in order to show respect and gratitude. Ancestor worship is still practiced in many parts of China today, and is often seen as a way of connecting with the past and honoring one’s ancestors.

7. Drinking from a Bowl

In traditional Chinese culture, it is customary to drink from a bowl rather than from a cup or glass. This practice is believed to be more sanitary than drinking from a cup, as the bowl can be washed more easily. This custom is still practiced in some parts of China today, and is often seen as a way of connecting with the past and honoring one’s ancestors.

8. Door Gods

Door gods are a common sight in many Chinese households. These gods are believed to protect the home from evil spirits and bad luck. The door gods are typically painted on the door or hung from the door frame, and are believed to keep away any evil forces that may enter the home.

9. Eating Long Noodles

Eating long noodles is a traditional Chinese custom believed to bring good luck and longevity. It is believed that the longer the noodles are, the longer the person’s life will be. This custom is still practiced in many parts of China today, and is often seen as a way of connecting with the past and honoring one’s ancestors.

10. Tea Ceremony

The Tea Ceremony is a traditional Chinese practice that dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). This ceremony involves a careful and precise preparation of tea, as well as the serving of tea to guests in a respectful manner. The tea ceremony is believed to bring peace and harmony to the home and is still practiced today in many parts of China.

China is a country with a rich and long history, and with this history comes a number of unique and fascinating cultural and traditional practices. From the ancient practice of foot binding to the bizarre custom of eating dog meat, Chinese culture has a number of strange customs that may surprise and even shock many people. While some of these customs may seem strange and even uncomfortable, they are often rooted in superstition and ancient belief, and are still practiced today in many parts of China.