第一篇：传统文化作文素材阅读素材

节日和风俗

每年农历七月初七是中国的情人节（Valentine's Day)。关于这个节日有一个美丽的传说：王母娘娘（the Queen of Heaven)最年幼的女儿“织女”爱上了人间的男子“牛郎”，王母反对仙女与凡人相爱，就用银河（Milky Way)将他们隔开。但牛郎和织女的爱情感动了人间的喜鹊（magpie)，每年七月初七这一天，喜鹊会搭起一座鹊桥让这对情侣相见。而如今在这一天，年轻的女子常在月下向织女祈祷，期望得到美满的姻缘。

The seventh day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar is Chinese Valentine's Day.There is a beautiful legend about this festival: Zhi Nu, the youngest daughter of the Queen of Heaven, fell in love with Niu Lang, a cowherd on earth.Zhi Nu's mother was opposed to the love between a fairy and a human, so she separated the two lovers with the Milky Way.However, their love story moved the magpies on earth.Those magpies gather together annually on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month to form a “magpie bridge”，so that the couple can meet each other once in a year.Today, on this day, young girls often pray to Zhi Nu in the moonlight, wishing for a happy marriage.农历五月初五的端午节(the Dragon Boat Festival)是个盛大的节日。它的另一名称——“重五节”就来源于这个日期。这个节日根据一个广为流传的故事，演变为纪念战国时期(the Warring States Period)楚国伟大爱国诗人屈原的日子。如果事实果真如此，那么端午节已经有大约2500年的存史了。端午节最盛行的活动是赛龙舟和吃粽子（rice dumpling)。自2008年以来，端午节在中国巳不仅仅是一个传统节日,还是公共假期。

The Dragon Boat Festival is a grand festival celebrated on the 5th day of 5th month of the Chinese lunar calendar.This is the source of the alternative name of Double Fifth Festival.According to a widely stated story, the festival developed to commemorate the great patriotic poet Qu Yuan of Chu State in Warring States Period.If that is true, Dragon Boat Festival has a history of about 2,500 years.The most popular activities of Dragon Boat festival are racing dragon boats and eating rice dumplings.Since 2008，Dragon Boat Festival has been celebrated not only as a festival but also a public holiday in China.端午节(Dragon Boat Festival)是中国的传统节日之一，为每年农历五月初五。它与春节、清明节和中秋节并称为中国汉族的四大传统节日。端午节的来源有多种说法，但最被人们接受的是为了纪念著名爱国诗人屈原。这一天的习俗有吃粽子、赛龙舟、喝雄黄酒（realgar wine)等。从2008年起，端午节正式列入国家法定节日，这既有助于弘扬传统文化，又能适应人们的需要。

Dragon Boat Festival is one of Chinese traditional festivals.It's on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.It is known as one of the four major traditional festivals of Han Chinese together with the Spring Festival, the Qingming Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival.A number of theories exist about its origins, but the best accepted one is that it's for memorizing the famous patriotic poet Qu Yuan.On this day, people have the customs of eating zongzi(rice dumpling), racing dragon boats and drinking realgar wine, etc.In 2008, it was recognized as a public holiday in mainland China for the first time which cannot only help spread this traditional culture but also meet the need of people.赛龙舟(Dragon boat racing)是端午节的一项重要活动，在中国南方尤为流行。关于这项运动的由来，有一种说法是为了纪念中国古代的著名爱国诗人屈原。龙舟的大小和样式多种多样，但一般都带有装饰性的龙头和龙尾。赛龙舟不仅是一种体育和娱乐活动，它更能体现人们心中的集体主义和爱国主义精神。赛龙舟现已被列入国家级非物质文化遗产名录(National Intangible Cultural Heritage List)。Dragon boat racing is an important activity of Duanwu Festival(also known as Dragon Boat Festival), and is particularly popular in the south of China.As for its origin, one version is that it is held in memory of Qu Yuan, a famous patriotic poet in ancient China.The dragon boats vary in sizes and styles, but they are generally rigged with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails.Dragon boat racing is not only a kind of sports and recreational activities, but also reflects the spirit of people’s collectivism and patriotism.Dragon boat racing is now among the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.清明是我国二十四节气(the twenty-four solar terms)之一，一般是在每年的4月4日至6日前后。人们庆祝清明节大约始于东周时代，距今已有两千五百多年的历史。清明过后，气温逐渐上升，雨水也增多，表明了这是农民开始安排农耕活动的关键时期。同时，清明也是郊游的大好时节，人们去户外踏青，并开展一系列消遣和体育活动。更重要的是，清明时节也是一个纪念祖先和已故亲人的日子。

Qingming is one of the twenty-four solar terms in China, typically falling on April 4-6 each year.The celebration for the Qingming Festival can be traced back to the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, with a history of over 2,500 years.After Qingming time, the temperature begins to rise up and rainfall increases, indicating that it is the crucial time for the farmers to arrange their farming activities accordingly.Meanwhile, it is the high time for spring outing, when people go out for fresh air, kinds of recreations and sports activities.More importantly, Qingming is also a period to honour and to pay respect to one's deceased ancestors and family members 每年农历的正月十五是元宵节。早在两千多年前的西汉时期(the Western Han Dynasty),元宵节就已经成为一个具有重要意义的节日。在这天，人们制作各种漂亮的灯笼、设计有趣的灯谜；同时多种表演，如舞龙灯、舞狮子、踩高跷（walking on stilts)等也会上演。和其他中国传统节日一样，元宵节也有特定的食品，叫“汤圆（glue pudding)”。汉语中，汤圆和“团圆”发音相似，代表着家庭团圆、和谐和快乐。

The Lantern Festival falls on the 15th day of the 1st lunar month.As early as more than 2,000 years ago, in the Western Han Dynasty, it had become a festival with great significance.On the Lantern Festival, Chinese people craft many types of beautiful lanterns and create many interesting lantern riddles.At the same time, performances such as dragon lantern dance, lion dance and walking on stilts will be staged.Just like China’s other traditional festivals, the Lantern Festival also has its own special dish— “Tangyuan, a glue pudding”.Tangyuan has a similar pronunciation with “tuanyuan(reunion)” in Chinese, representing reunion, harmony and happiness for the family.灯谜(lantern riddles)是指写在彩灯上面的谜语。灯谜一般由三部分组成，即谜面、谜目(hint)和谜底。在灯谜中凡是谜面上有的字，在谜底中不能再出现。灯谜里充满着智慧，因此猜谜底显得很有趣，这也使得猜灯谜成为元宵节的一项不可缺少的活动。灯谜在中国源远流长，可以毫不夸张地说，灯谜体现着中国人民无穷的智慧。

Lantern riddles are riddles that are written on the lanterns.Generally, a lantern riddle consists of three parts, namely the riddle, the hint and the answer.Any character that appears in the riddle cannot be in the answer again.Lantern riddles are full of wisdom, thus working out them can be much fun, which makes guessing riddles an essential part of the activities in the Lantern Festival.The lantern riddle has a long history in China, and it is no exaggeration to say that it is a reflection of infinite wisdom of the Chinese people.春节是中国最重要，也是最热闹的古老节日之一。春节象征着团结、兴旺以及对未来寄予新的希望。据记载，中国人过春节已有四千多年的历史。中同是个多民族的国家，各民族（nationality）过春节的形式各有不同。但是无论在中国的哪个地方，人们都会在春节期间全家团圆，吃年糕(New Year cake)，饺子以及各种丰盛的饭菜。人们张灯结彩，燃放鞭炮，并互相祝福。

In China, the Spring Festival is one of the most significant and lively ancient festivals, which symbolizes unity, prosperity and new hopes for the future.It is recorded that the custom of celebrating the Spring Festival has lasted for more than 4,000 years.As a multi-ethnic country, different nationalities in China have various ways of celebrating the Spring Festival.However, wherever in China, people will have a family reunion during the festival, eating New Year cakes, dumplings and various hearty meals, decorating the houses with lanterns and festoons, setting off firecrackers and blessing each others.对联（Chinese couplet)也叫“对子”，由两句形式相通、内容相连的语句组成。第一部分称作“上联”，贴在右侧，第二部分，即“下联”则贴在左侧。两行字不仅字数要一致，而且相同位置上的字必须对仗工整（antithetic in form),平仄协调（harmonious in tone)。按用途不同，对联可以分为很多种，在新年贴的对联也叫“春联”，表达了人们的美好祝福与愿望，也为新年增添了节日气氛。

The Chinese couplet is also called “Duizi”.It consists of two sentences which are identical in form and interrelated in meaning.The first line is called “upper couplet”，which is put up or hung on the right side, and the other is called “lower couplet” which is placed on the left side.Not only are the two lines required to have an equal number of characters, the words stand in the same position in each of the two sentences must be antithetic in form and harmonious in tone.For different purposes, there are different couplets.The couplet for the Spring Festival is called “Chunlian”，which conveys the blessing and good wishes of the people and enhances the festive atmosphere of the New Year, too.压岁钱（lucky money)是中国春节习俗中不可缺少的一项元素，是每个孩子过年时都热切期盼的礼物。除夕夜，家中的长辈会给予未成年的孩子一定数额的钱，称之为“压岁钱”,据说压岁钱可以使孩子平平安安地度过新的一年。在中国，给压岁钱的风俗源远流长，流传至今。它是长辈送给孩子的护身符（amulet), 代表着长辈对孩子的美好祝福，可以保佑孩子在新的一年里健康吉利。

As an indispensable element of the Spring Festival customs in China, lucky money is a gift that every kid eagerly looks forward to during the Spring Festival.On Chinese New Year's Eve, the underage kids can receive a certain sum of cash from the elders in their family, which is called “lucky money”.It is believed that lucky money can bless the kids to have a safe and peaceful new year.The custom of giving lucky money has a long history and spreads up to now in China.It is an amulet the elders give their kids, representing the elders'fine wishes for the kids and blessing them with health and good fortune in the New Year.守岁Staying up late(“Shousui”)守岁意味着除夕夜不睡觉。年夜饭后，家人聚坐一起，愉快聊天，等待春节的到来。Shousui means to stay up late or all night on New Year's Eve.After the great dinner, families sit together and chat happily to wait for the New Year's arrival。

年夜饭New Year Feast 春节是与家人团聚的时间。年夜饭是所有家庭成员聚在一起“必须”的宴会。除夕宴会上吃的食物根据不同的地区各不相同。在中国南方，习惯吃“年糕”(糯米粉制成的新年糕点)，因为作为一个同音字，年糕意味着“步步高升”。在北方，年夜饭的传统饭是“饺子”或像月牙儿形的汤圆。Spring Festival is a time for family reunion.The New Year's Feast is “a must” banquet with all the family members getting together.The food eaten on the New Year Even banquet varies according to regions.In south China, It is customary to eat “niangao”(New Year cake made of glutinous rice flour)because as a homophone, niangao means “higher and higher every year”.In the north, a traditional dish for the feast is “Jiaozi” or dumplings shaped like a crescent moon.春节打扫房屋这个非常古老的习俗甚至可以追溯到几千年前。灰尘在传统上与“旧”联系在一起，所以打扫房屋和扫除灰尘意味着辞“旧”迎“新”。春节的前几天，中国的各家各户都打扫房屋，扫地，清洗日用品，清除蛛网和疏浚沟渠。人们兴高采烈做所有这些事情，希望来年好运。

To clean houses on the New Year Even is a very old custom dating back to thousands of years ago.The dust is traditionally associated with “old” so cleaning their houses and sweeping the dust mean to bid farewell to the “old” and usher in the “new”.Days before the New Year, Chinese families clean their houses, sweeping the floor, washing daily things, cleaning the spider webs and dredging the ditches.People do all these things happily in the hope of a good coming year.发红包(red packet)是中国春节的一种习俗。红包作为礼物，是乂母、祖父母或其他长辈给孩子的、用红色纸袋包起来的钱。红包外面通常都有象征财富和运气的图案。中国人喜欢红色，认为红色代表能量、幸福和好运。过年时送红包给孩 子们，是送给他们美好的祝愿和好运。孩子们收到红包，意味着他们又可以度过 安全、平和的一年。一般来说，红包里包多少钱取决于一个人的收入。

Giving red packets is a custom during the Spring Festival in China.As a gift,red packets are the money wrapped in red paper bags presented to kids by their parents, grandparents or other elders.Symbols of wealth and luck usually decorate the cover of the red packets.Chinese people love the red color and regard it as representing energy, happiness and good luck.Giving red packets to kids during the Spring Festival is to send good wishes and luck to them.Kids'receiving the red packets implies that they will have another safe and peaceful year.Generally,the amount of money wrapped in the red packets depends on the giver's income.庙会(the temple fair)是中国民间的一种社会活动，通常在节日或某些特定的 日子里，在寺庙里或寺庙附近的空旷之处举办。有的则只在春节期间举办。尽管 在不同的地方举办的庙会时间不同，但其基本内容是相似的。在庙会期间，来自 四面八方的农民和商人都带着自己的农产品来进行交易。民间艺术家搭起舞台，表演唱歌、跳舞、讲故事等。老百姓高高兴兴地来观看表演，买小吃或其他有趣 的物品。

The temple fair is a social activity in the Chinese folk.It is usually held in a temple or in the open place near the temple during festivals or some specified days.Some temple feirs are only held during the Spring Festival.Although temple fairs in different places are held in different time, their basic contents are similar.During the time of temple fairs, farmers and traders come from all directions, with their own agricultural products for transactions.Folk artists set up the stages for performing singing, dancing, stoiy telling, etc.Ordinary people happily come to watch performances and buy snacks or other interesting goods.“春运(Transportation during the Spring Festival Period)”被认为是规模最大的年度迁徙。这是个特殊的时期，这时的中国面临着极高的交通负荷，从而导致巨大的交通问题，特别是在铁路服务方面。在春节临近的时候，数以百万计远离家乡工作或学习的人要赶回家与家人团聚。这个长久以来的传统是春运高峰的主要原因。还有一个原因，这个假期是每年两个为期一周的长假中的一个，对许多人来说是一个外出旅行的完美时机。Transportation during the Spring Festival Period is considered to be the largest annual migration.It is the special period when China faces an extremely heavy traffic load,which results in great transportation problems，especially on the railway services.Millions of people working or studying far away from their hometowns will come back home to reunite with their families as the Chinese Spring Festival approaches.This long-held tradition is the main reason for the rush.The other is that the holiday is one of the two long holidays of one week in the year, and for many people,it's a perfect travel time.每年农历九月初九，人们会庆祝重阳节（the Double Ninth Festival)。《易经》(The Book of Changes)认为数字“九”是阳数，故重九也叫重阳。登高是最受欢迎的重阳节传统之一。九月天空高远，空气新鲜，在这样的日子登高有助于保 持身体健康。吃重阳糕(double-ninth cake)跟登高有关。重阳糕作为节日食品最初 用来庆祝秋收，后来发展成登高、吃重阳糕的习俗，寓意是我们的生活将越来越好。由于“九九”谐音“久久”，重阳节如今已被赋予薪的涵义—老人节。

On the ninth day of the ninth month in the Chinese lunar calendar, people celebrate the Double Ninth Festival.Nine is a yang number(a traditional Chinese spiritual concept)in The Book of Changes, so Double Ninth is called Chongyang.Climbing the mountains is one of the most popular traditions on that day.In September the sky is high and the air is fresh, and climbing the mountains is helpful to keep physical fitness.The tradition of eating double-ninth cakes is associated with climbing the mountains.As a kind of festival foods, the double-ninth cake was first used to celebrate the autumn harvest.Later, it developed into the custom of climbing the mountains and eating double-ninth cakes, which means that our life will become better and better.Because double ninth sounds like longevity(jiujiu in Chinese), the Double Ninth Festival nowadays has been given a new meaning-Seniors' Day.重阳节，由于它是在中国农历九月初九这一天，所以又被称为重九节，至今有约两千年的历史。在中国古代，重阳节是一个重要的节日，这一天要举行各种庆祝活动，如:登高、赏菊（chrysanthemum)、插茱萸（cornel)、吃重阳糕等。登髙是重阳节的主要习俗。古人认为，在这一天登高可以避祸免灾。近年来，这个古老的节日被赋予新的含义，逐渐成为开展各种敬老活动、一年一度的“老年节”。

Chongyang Festival，falls on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, because of which，it is also named as the Double-ninth Festival, which has a history of some 2,000 years.As an important festival in ancient China, Chongyang Festival was celebrated by holding various activities, such as climbing mountains, appreciating chrysanthemums, wearing cornel and eating Chongyang cakes.Climbing mountains is a major custom in Chongyang Festival.Ancient people thought climbing mountains on this day could help them avoid misfortune and prevent disasters.In recent years, a new meaning has been given to the old festival，and it gradually becomes an annual Seniors’ Day, on which various activities are held in honor of senior people.每年的农历八月十五为中秋节，是月亮在一年中最圆、最亮的一天。中秋节的历史非常悠久。自古以来，历代皇帝都遵循着春季祭日、秋季祭月的传统。到唐代，中秋节开始作为固定节日；宋朝时，这一节日更为盛行。至明清，中秋节已成为一个与春节、清明节和端午节并列的重大节日。在中秋节这天，人们会在月下观赏祭拜，寄托个人情怀。

The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is the fullest and brightest of the whole year.This festival has a very long history.In ancient China, emperors followed the tradition of offering sacrifices to the sun in spring and to the moon in autumn.By the Tang Dynasty, the Mid-Autumn Festival had been fixed as a holiday, which became even grander in the Song Dynasty.In the Ming and Qing dynasties, it grew to be a major festival of China together with the Spring Festival, the Qingming Festival and Dragon Boat Festival.On this day, people enjoy the full, bright moon, worship it and express their thoughts and feelings in the moonlight.中秋节(the Mid-Autumn Festival)对中国汉族和少数民族来说都是个传统的节日。拜月的习俗可以追溯到古代夏商时期(the Xia and Shang Dynasties)。按照中国的农历，八月为秋季的第二个月，古时称为中秋。农历八月十五这天，月亮满圆，于是中国人将这天定为中秋节。圆形对中国人来说意味着家庭团聚，因此中秋节也是个家庭团聚的节日。这天，儿女们会带着自己的家人到父母家团聚。已 经定居海外的人有时会回来探望父母。

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a conventional festival for both the Han and minority nationalities in China.The custom of worshipping the moon can be traced back to the ancient Xia and Shang Dynasties.According to Chinese lunar calendar,the 8th month is the second month in autumn and ancient people called it Mid-Autumn(Zhongqiu in Chinese).On the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, the moon is extremely round and the Chinese people mark it Mid-Autumn Festival.The round shape to Chinese means family reunion, therefore the Mid-Autumn Festival is also a holiday for members of a family to get together.On that day, sons and daughters will bring their family members back to their parents'home for a reunion, and people who have already settled overseas sometimes will come back to visit their parents.腊八节(the Laba Festival)在农历最后一个月的第八天庆祝，标志着春节庆祝 活动的开始。“腊”指“腊月（the 12th lunar month)”，是农历第十二个月，“八”指的 是数字8。腊八节通常在1月中旬。大多数汉族人遵循腊八节喝腊八粥（Laba rice porridge)的习俗。腊八粥最早在宋朝传入中国。据史料记载，一些大型寺庙会为穷人提供腊八粥来表达对佛祖(Buddha)的虔诚。明朝时，腊八粥成为皇帝在此节日赏赐群臣的神圣食物。

Laba Festival is celebrated on the eighth day of the last lunar month, marking the beginning of celebrating the Chinese Spring Festival.La means the 12th lunar month and ba means the number eight.The date usually falls in mid-January.The majority of people from Han nationality has followed the tradition of eating Laba rice porridge on the Laba Festival.Laba rice porridge was first introduced to China in the Song Dynasty.According to historical records, some large temples would offer the poor Laba rice porridge to show their faith to Buddha.In the Ming Dynasty, it became a holy food that emperors would use to award their officials on the festival.传统文化

中国人的姓名通常姓（family name)在前，名（given name)在后。中国有10多亿个名字，所以人们即便在随意场合也可能会连名带姓地介绍自己，这是很寻常的。历史上，人名的受欢迎稈度会随着时事而变化。例如，文化大革命(Cultural Rcvolution)期间，“红”颇受欢迎，因其代表“革命”。20世纪80年代改革开放时期，“致富”成为一个名字，因其意为“变得富有”。

In China the family name is usually in front of the given name.It isn't unusual for a man to introduce himself by his family name with given name even in casual situations because there are more than a billion given names.The Chinese given name has a history of changing with popularity depending on what events were going on.For instance, during the Cultural Revolution Hong(the color red)was very popular as it presents revolution.During the reform and opening up in the 1980s, Zhifu became one given name as it means “getting rich”.中国传统认为孝顺(filial piety)是我们在父母有生之年应该一直秉承的、最 重要的美德。成为孝子是任何一个中国人首要的责任，这意味着要尽可能完全服 从父母，关怀父母，不惜任何代价满足他们的需求。中国传统认为孝顺还有一些 其他特征，如父母过世后，长子需要一手操办葬礼；儿子必须确保家里的香火(family line)得以延续。

According to Chinese tradition，filial piety is the most important virtue to be cherished throughout one's parents' lifespan.Being a filial child is the uppermost duty of any Chinese and it means showing complete obedience to parents，taking care of them，and meeting their demands at any cost as possible as one can.Chinese tradition takes a view that filial piety has some other features, too.For example，the eldest son is required to perform all the rituals after the death of his parents;the son has to ensure that the family line will continue.农历(lunar calendar)已使用了数千年。今天，我们依然用农历来表示中国的传统节日。农历由中国古代的朝代衍生而来。现今使用的农历形成于公元前104年，汉朝汉武帝（Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty）统治时期。该农历被称为太初历（taichu calendar）,跟今天使用的农历是一样的。农历中的每一年都以一种动物来命名，如2012年是“龙年”。共有12种动物，每12年循环一次。

The lunar calendar has been used for thousands of years.Today the traditional Chinese festivals are still lunar calendar festivals.The lunar calendar originated in the Chinese ancient dynasties.The current calendar was created during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty in 104 BC.This calendar,which was called the taichu calendar,is the same lunar calendar as the one used nowadays.Each year in the lunar calendar is named after an animal.For example,2012 was the year of the dragon.There are 12 animals.Every 12 years the cycle repeats itself.中国象棋(Chinese chess)是中国宝贵的文化遗产之一，它是中国古代智慧的结晶，下象棋也是一种有助于磨练性格、培养品味的运动。在各种棋盘游戏中，象棋和围棋(go game)都由古时的宋朝人发明，如今在全国都广受欢迎。象棋是一种双人对弈的战略性棋盘游戏。游戏代表了两军之间的战斗，目标是捕捉敌人的将军。虽然它起源于亚洲，但今天在全球都有中国象棋倶乐部。

The Chinese chess is one of the valuable cultural heritages of China.It is the fruit of Chinese ancient wisdom and playing chess is also a helpful exercise for tempering one's character and cultivating one's taste.Among various kinds of board games, both Chinese chess and go game were invented by ancient people in the Song Dynasty and now enjoy great popularity over the country.Chinese chess is a strategic board game between two players.The game represents a battle between two armies;its object is to capture the enemy's general.Although it has its origin in Asia, the Chinese chess clubs spread all over the world today.“功夫(Kungfu)”是对中国武术(martial art)的通俗叫法。中国功夫不是单纯的拳脚格斗，而是中华民族传统文化的体现，是独一无二的“武文化”。中国功夫因其悠久的历史、丰富的内涵(connotation)以及浓厚的神秘色彩而越来越为中外所瞩目。中国功夫在世界上的影响日渐广泛，不仅出现了大量中国功夫题材的中外影视作品，更有越来越多的外国人开始喜爱并学习中国功夫。

Kungfu is a common name for Chinese martial art.While Kungfu does not simply refer to fighting using hands and feet, it is the embodiment of the Chinese traditional culture and the unique “martial art culture”.Kungfu is drawing more and more attention at home and abroad for its long history, rich connotation and deep mysterious color.Kungfu's influence in the world is increasingly widespread.There are a large number of Chinese and foreign films on the theme of Kungfu, and more and more foreigners begin to love and learn Kungfu.中医(Traditional Chinese Medicine)的范畴很广，包括一系列具有相同基本概 念的医学实践。这个概念起源于中国古代，已经历了数千年的发展。中医诊法包 括把脉（measure the pulse)，检查舌头、皮肤、眼睛，以及询问饮食、睡眠习惯和其他方面。中医蕴含的理念及其复杂性向研究中医如何奏效的研究者提出了挑战。这些研究大多数集中在针灸(acupuncture)和中药等特定形式的疗法上。

Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)includes a broad range of medicine practices sharing common basic concept which originated in ancient China and has :evolved over thousands of years.TCM diagnosis includes measuring the pulse,inspecting the tongue, skin, eyes and asking about the eating and sleeping habits of :the patient as well as many other things.TCM's complexity and underlying conceptual foundations present challenges for researchers seeking evidence on how it works.Most researches focus on specific treatment modalities, primarily I acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies.打麻将(mahjong)有时被描述成现实生活的翻版，既需要策略，也需要运气。在中国玩麻将通常还需要下或大或小的赌注(bet)。一个世纪前，麻将主要是富人 的消遣(pastime),但如今已被认为是大众游戏。麻将在20世纪20年代引人美国，一股麻将热潮随之而来。学习打麻将最好的方式是与朋友坐在一起，让他们示范 玩一次，把麻将牌面向上，看大家怎么玩。

Playing mahjong, which is sometimes described as a metaphor of real life，needs a mix of strategies and luck.Typically in China，it also involves placing large or small bets.A century ago，it was mainly a pastime for wealthy people，but today it is considered a game of the people.When it was first introduced to the U.S.A.in the 1920s，a craze of mahjong ensued The best way to learn playing mahjong is to sit with friends and ask them to play a demonstration game: ask them to turn their pieces upwards and watch what everybody is doing.太极拳（Taijiquan)是一种中国武术内家拳（the internal styles of Chinese martial art)。它基于以柔克刚(the soft overcoming the hard)的原理，发端于中国古代，最开始是一种武术和自卫方式。随着时间的推移，人们开始通过练太极拳来改善健康状况、增加福祉(well-being)。练习者用意念慢慢地、轻轻地移动身体, 同时深呼吸，因此有时被称为移动冥想(meditation)。中国人通常会在清晨到附近的公园练习太极拳。

Taijiquan is one of the internal styles of Chinese martial art.It is based on the principle of the soft overcoming the hard and originated in ancient China as a martial art and a means of self-defense.Over time, people began to exercise it to improve their health and well-being.Practicers move their bodies slowly，gently and with thought while breathing deeply，so it is sometimes referred to as “moving meditation”.Chinese commonly practice Taijiquan in nearby parks in early morning.汉语是一种很古老的语言。大量文献记载说明，汉字起源于新石器时代(the Neolithic Age)仰韶文化时期，最早的汉字已有近4000年的历史。汉字在其漫长的发展史中演化出不同的书写形式，例如篆书(seal script)、隶书(official script)、楷书(regular script)和行书(cursive handwriting)。中国书法家笔下的汉字往往以字形的夸张取得艺术效果，例如一些旅游胜地的石刻碑文。

Chinese is a very old language.A host of documental records shows that Chinese characters originated in Yaoshao Culture Period of the Neolithic Age, and its earliest characters date back to nearly 4,000 years ago.During their long history of development, Chinese characters have evolved into many different script forms, such as seal script, official script, regular script and cursive handwriting.Chinese calligraphers usually render their Chinese characters in a way that is exaggerated in form to yield artistic beauty, such as those in stone inscriptions seen at some tourist resorts.唐朝是中国古代最繁荣、兴旺、灿烂、光荣的时期。因此，中国人穿的传统服装就被称为“唐装(Tang suit)”。实际上，“唐装”并不是唐朝的服装。它的起源可以追溯到清朝，由马褂(Chinese jacket)演变而来。唐装的颜色多种多样，最常见的是红色、深蓝色、金色和黑色。唐装上一种常见的设计是使用汉字来表达好运和祝福。今天，仍然有很多人会在传统的节日里穿唐装。

The Tang Dynasty was the most thriving, prosperous, splendid and glorious period in ancient China.As a result, the traditional clothing worn by the Chinese is called “Tang suit”.Actually, “Tang suit” is not the clothing of the Tang Dynasty.Its origin can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty, evolving from Chinese jacket.Tang suit is made in different colors, the most common are red, dark blue, gold and black.One common design is the usage of Chinese characters to convey good luck and wishes.Today,there are still many people who would wear Tang suit during traditional festivals.水墨画(ink wash painting)是一种毛笔画。基本水墨画只使用深浅不一的黑色墨水。唐朝时，水墨画得到发展。人们普遍认为是王维将颜色加入到当时的水墨画中。水墨画的目标不仅仅是复制物体的外观，还要捕捉它的灵魂。要想画一匹马，水墨画家必须了解马的肌肉和骨骼，更要了解马的气质(temperament)。要想画一朵花，水墨画家并不需要完全描摹它的花瓣和颜色，重要的是传达它的活力和芳香。

Ink wash painting is a type of brush painting.Only black ink is used for the painting of basic ones, in various concentrations.During the Tang Dynasty,ink wash painting got developed.Wang Wei is generally credited as the painter who applied color to existing ink wash paintings.The goal of ink wash painting is not simply to reproduce the appearance of a subject,but to capture its soul.To paint a horse,the ink wash painting artist must understand its temperament better than its muscles and bones.To paint a flower,there is no need to perfectly portray its petals and color,but it is essential to convey its liveliness and fragrance.中国木雕(wood carving)有着悠久的历史，是中国传统艺术之一。人们认为现存最早的木雕大约是在三千年前的战国时期雕刻完成的。在中国，木雕主要分成三个类别：建筑雕刻、家具雕刻和艺术品雕刻。中国的木雕以其令人印象深刻的细致构造和主题之美受到了全世界的欣赏。今天，我们可以在私人画廊里看到传统木雕，也可以在长江两岸整个区域的宅邸装饰上看到它。

Chinese wood carving is one of Chinese traditional arts with a time-honored history.The earliest existing wood carving is believed to be made during the Warring States Period about three thousand years ago.Wood carving in China constitutes three major categories: architecture carving, furniture carving and artworks carving.Chinese wood carving is appreciated worldwide for its impressively detailed structures and the beauty of its themes.Today,traditional wood carvings can be seen in private galleries and also on the decorations over residential areas on both sides of the Yangtze River.中国的印章篆刻(seal carving)始于古代，贯穿于整个秦朝。篆刻的印帝最初是作为皇帝的玉玺(imperial seal)来使用的。皇家的印章被称为玺(Xi)并且只能由皇室成员使用。秦朝之后，更多不同种类的印章出现了。它们作为个性化的印戳用于私人用途。这些非官方定制的印戳被称为印（Yin)。在唐朝，由于迷信(superstition),印章的名称被改称为宝，理由是玺的发音与另一个表示“死亡”意思的汉字类似。

Chinese seal carving first appeared in ancient times and was used throughout the Qin Dynasty.It was initially employed as an imperial seal named Xi.These imperial seal carvings were used only by the royalty.Following this dynasty, more different kinds of seals appeared and were used by private folks as personalized stamps.These non-official stamps were called Yin.During the Tang Dynasty, the seals was renamed Bao as a result of superstition since the pronunciation of Xi is similar to that of another Chinese charactcr which means death 黄梅戏（Huangmei Opera)源于湖北省黄梅县的采茶歌曲，连同京剧、越剧(Yue Opera)、评剧(Ping Opera)和豫剧(Yu Opera)是中国的五大戏曲。它最初是以一种简单的载歌载舞的戏剧形式出现的。后来，随着饱受洪水灾害的灾民，黄梅戏传到了安徽省安庆市。它吸收了徽剧和当地歌舞的元素，发展到了今天的形式。黄梅戏以一种淸新的风格反映了普通居民的生活，受到了群众的喜爱。

Huangmei Opera was originated from tea picking songs in Huangmei county, Hubei province.It is one of the Five Operas in China together with Beijing Opera, Yue Opera, Ping Opera and Yu Opera.It first appeared as a simple drama of song and dance.Later, it was spread to Anqing city, Anhui province by immigrating victims of floods.Absorbing elements of Anhui Opera and local songs and dances, Huangmei Opera was developed to the present form.It enjoys great popularity among the masses by reflecting the life of ordinary people in a fresh style.十二生肖(the twelve Chinese Zodiacs)是中国传统文化的重要组成部分，它们源于自然界的11种动物和一个民族图腾(totem)。十二生肖代表动物的性格特点各不相同。到了龙年或虎年，人们常说“生龙活虎”；马年人们会说“马到成功”；猪在中国人的眼里是“宝”的意思；牛是勤劳（diligence)的象征，这一点在鲁迅的诗句“俯首甘为孺子牛”中有着完美的体现。

The twelve Chinese Zodiacs, including eleven animals in the nature and a national totem, play an important role in the Chinese traditional culture.The twelve symbolic animals have their own characteristics.In the Year of Dragon or the Year of Tiger, people will say shenglonghuohu—full of vim and vigor;in the Year of Horse, people will say madaochenggong—to gain an immediate success.In Chinese eyes, pig is a “treasure”.Ox is a symbol of diligence, which is well presented in the verse by Lu Xun一an outstanding writer in China, “head bowed, like a willing ox I serve the children”.算盘(abacus)是一种手动操作计算辅助工具形式。它起源于中国，迄今已有2600多年的历史，是中国古代的一项重要发明。在阿拉伯数字（Arabic numerals)出现前，算盘是世界广为使用的计算工具。现在，算盘在亚洲和中东的部分地区继续使用，尤其见于商店之中，可以从供应中国商品和日本商品的商店里买到。在西方，它有时被用来帮助小孩子们理解数字，而一些数学家喜欢体验一下使用算盘计算出简单算术（arithmetical)问题的感觉。

An abacus is a form of manually operated counting aid.It has originated in China over 2,600 years ago.It is one of the most important inventions of ancient China.The abacus used to be the most widely used calculation tool before the appearance of Arabic numerals.At present, abacuses continue to be used in parts of Asia and the Middle East, especially in the shops, and they are available in stores which stock Chinese or Japanese goods.In the West, it is sometimes used to help young children grasp numbers, and some mathematicians enjoy experimenting with the abacus to work out simple arithmetical problems.中医(Traditional Chinese Medicine)有五千多年的历史，是中国古代劳动人民几千年来对抗疾病的经验总结。中医将人体看成是气、形、神的统一体，以“望、闻（auscultation and olfaction)、问、切”为其独特的诊断过程。中医使用中药、针灸(acupuncture)以及许多其他治疗手段，使人体达到阴阳调和。阴阳和五行是中医的理论基础。五行是自然界中的五种基本物质，即金、木、水、火、土。

Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)has a long history of more than 5,000 years.It is a summary of the experience of the working people over many centuries of struggle against diseases.TCM considers human body as a unity of QI, XING and SHEN.The diagnostic process of TCM distinguishes itself by “observation，auscultation and olfaction, inquiry and pulse diagnosis”.TCM uses traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and many other treatment means to make human body be harmony between YIN and YANG.The concepts of YIN-YANG and WU XING laid a theoretical foundation for TCM.WU XING refers to five basic substances in the nature, that is, metal, wood, water, fire, and earth.太极拳(Tai Chi)是一系列缓慢的动作，旨在修炼身心。它就像是一种舞蹈，却不需要你随音乐起舞，而是需要你向内看,聆听内心的节奏。它创自数千年前，原本是一种武术（martial art)—一种自卫的技艺。然而，它的武术方面如今不太流行了。目前全世界成千上万人练习它，主要是由于它对于人类健康的神奇作用。它将身体动作与平静、冥想的（meditative)心理状态结合起来，所以也被称作“冥想运动(meditation in motion)”。

Tai Chi is a series of slow movements which are aimed at trainning us physically and mentally.It is just like a dance that requires you to look inside and dance to the internal rhythms instead of music.It was created thousands of years ago as a martial art and specifically as a defensive art.However, nowadays its martial aspect is not that popular.It is practiced by thousands of people around the world mostly because of its miraculous effects on human's health.It is often called “meditation in motion” because it combines the body's movements with the calm and meditative state of mind.据说，中国的舞狮(lion dance)起源于南北朝（the Southern and Northern Dynasties)时期，至今已有一千多年的历史了。狮子代表欢乐和幸福。在中国古代，从新年的第四天到第十五天，舞狮团会从一个村子舞到另一个村子。狮子本身包含一个头和一个身体。两个功夫武术家(Kung Fu martial artists)可以组成一头狮子。两名参与者必须都要有扎实的功夫才能表演。舞狮的过程中还配有音乐。狮子的每种情绪和动作都有自己的节奏。

It is said that the lion dance in China originated in the Southern and Northern Dynasties with a history of more than one thousand years.The lions represent joy and happiness.From the fourth day to the fifteenth of the New Year, lion dance groups would tour from village to village in ancient China.The lion itself consists of a head and a body.Every lion was made up of two Kung Fu martial artists qualified with a solid skill in Kung Fu.During the lion dance, music is played and each of the lion's moods and moves has its own rhythm.中国象棋属于二人对抗战略性棋盘游戏，是最受欢迎的棋盘游戏之一。在中国古代，象棋被列为士大夫们的修身之艺，现在则被视为一种益智的活动。象棋由两人轮流走子，以“将死”对方的将（帅）为胜。象棋棋盘共有64格，中间的“河界”将之分为两个“敌对”的部分。每人各有棋子16枚，包括1枚将、2枚马、2枚车(chariot)、2枚象（相）、2枚士、2枚炮和5枚丢(pawn)。一般而言，执红色棋子的一方先走子。

Chinese chess, known as Xiangqi, is a strategy board game for two players.It is one of the most popular board games.In ancient China, Chinese chess used to be listed as a way for scholar-officials to cultivate their moral characters, while now it's regarded as a kind of activities to develop intelligence.The two players move by turn in the game with the objective of checkmating the opponent's general or king.The board itself has 64 squares and has a “river” in the middle that pides the board into two opposing parts.Each player has 16 pieces, including 1 general(king), 2 horses, 2 chariots, 2 elephants(bishops), 2 guards, 2 cannons and 5 pawns.Generally speaking, the player with the red pieces moves first.清朝末期，雕刻精美、描绘华丽的折扇大量在中国广东生产，后被西方商人青睐。运往欧洲和美国后成为西方贵妇的重要时尚配件（accessories)。中国折扇的材质多为镂雕精巧的象牙、珍珠贝壳、漆木（lacquer)。扇面上描绘了众多清朝官员及夫人的形象。因为具有神秘的东方情调，当时西方中上层贵妇人手一把，以此来炫耀自己的财富和高贵。

During the late Qing Dynasty, a large number of Chinese fans exquisitely carved and gorgeously painted were produced in Canton(now called Guang dong).These fans later were in good graces of western merchants.After they were shipped to Europe and America, they became fashionable accessories for noblewomen.The materials used to make Chinese fans were mostly exquisitely carved ivory, pearls and shells and lacquer.These Chinese fans showed many figures of Mandarins and their consorts.Mysterious oriental sentiment as they presented, each lady in upper-middle class family at that time owned a Chinese fan to show off her wealth and nobility.“泥人张”是中国北方流传的一种民间彩塑，深得当地百姓喜爱。它创始于清代(the Qing Dynasty)末年，至今已有180多年的历史。“泥人张”的创始人叫张明山，生于天津，家境贫寒，从小跟父亲以捏泥人（clay figure)为业。张明山的泥人，有民间故事中的人物，也有小说、戏曲中的角色，有现实生活中的劳动人民，有正面人物，还有反面人物。因此，他的作品具有浓厚的趣味性。

The “Clay Figure Zhang” is a kind of folk painted sculpture which is popular in Northern China, and deeply appreciated by local people.Its appearance can be dated back to late Qing Dynasty, having a history of more than 180 years until now.The “Clay Figure Zhang” was founded by Zhang Mingshan, who was born in Tianjin.He had been living his life by making clay figures with his father since childhood because of the poverty of his family.Zhang's clay figures are based on the figures in folk stories together with characters in novels and traditional Chinese operas and working people in real life.Those figures can be positive or negative.Therefore, his works are of great interestingness.年画(New Year painting)是最受中国家庭欢迎的民间手工艺术形式之一。年画一般在春节时张贴。因年画在新的一年到来后才会被换，故称“年画”。年画是中国民间美术中较大的一个艺术门类，它始于古代的“门神画（door-god picture)据说贴在家门上可以辟邪。同时，年画还可以美化居家环境，增添节日的喜庆气氛，为家人带来幸福和欢乐，表达了民众向往美好生活的愿望。

The New Year pictures are one of the most popular folk handcraft arts among Chinese families.Generally, they're posted during the Spring Festival.Because they will be replaced after another New Year's arrival, hence their name is New Year pictures.The New Year picture in China is a large category of folk art, originating from the door-god pictures, which is believed to exorcise evil spirits when posted on the door of a house.At the same time, the pictures can beautify people's homes, enhance the festive atmosphere and bring happiness and joy to the family, and express their hopes for a better life.中国结(the Chinese knot)是中国的一种传统而典型的民间手工编织装饰品。在汉语中,“结”寓意团圆、友好、和平和爱等，所以中国结经常被用来表达美好的祝愿。每个中国结通常只用一根丝线或丝绳编结而成，每一个结根据其形状和意义命名。编织中国结的主要材料是各种线，线的种类包括丝、棉、麻(linen)、尼龙(nylon)等。中国结兼具实用性和装饰性，充分反映了中国文化的魅力。

The Chinese knot is a kind of traditional and typical folk hand-woven decoration in China.In Chinese language, “jie(a knot)” means reunion, amity, peace and love, etc., so the Chinese knot is often used to express good wishes.Each knot is usually woven with only one silk cord or silk rope, and named according to its shape and meaning.Chinese knots are mainly made of various cords which can be silk, cotton, linen or nylon and so on.The Chinese knot is both practical and decorative, fully reflecting the charm of Chinese culture.皮影戏（shadow play), 一门古老的中国传统民间艺术，是世界上最早由人配音（dub)的活动影画艺术。这门古老的艺术流行范围极为广泛。千百年来，给祖祖辈辈的人带来了许多欢乐的时光。皮影戏所用的幕影原理，以及表演形式，对近代电影的发明和发展也起到了重要的先导作用。几年前，皮影戏被列入联合国教科文组织人类非物质文化遗产名录(UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists)。

Shadow play, an ancient traditional folk art in China, is the earliest art of motion shadow pictures dubbed by people in the world.This ancient art has been very popular.It has provided the Chinese people for generations with a lot of joyous time for thousands of years.The principle of curtain shade and ways of performance adopted by shadow play played an important leading role in the invention and development of the modem movies.Several years ago, shadow play was listed in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists.中国杂技(acrobatics)是一门结合了身体力量和技巧的表演艺术。它是最受中国人欢迎的艺术形式之一。杂技在中国已经存在了两千多年。早在战国时期(the Warring States Period)就已经出现了杂技的雏形(embryonic form)。到了汉代，杂技或“百戏”进一步丰富了其内容和种类。古往今来，杂技表演融入了许多不同的表演艺术，例如传统戏剧、舞蹈和武术（martial art)的优点，作为回报，它也为后者提供了灵感。

The Chinese acrobatics is a performing art which combines physical strength and skills.It is one of the most popular art forms welcomed by the Chinese people.The acrobatic art has existed in China for more than two thousand years.As early as the Warring States Period, there appeared embryonic form of acrobatics.By the time of the Han Dynasty, the acrobatic art or “Baixi” was further enriched both in contents and varieties.Acrobatic performances through the ages have incorporated strong points of many different performing arts such as traditional operas, dance and martial art, and provided the latter with inspiration in return.京剧脸谱(Peking Opera facial makeup)是具有民族特色的一种特殊的化妆方法。由于每个历史人物或某一种类型的人物都有一种大概的类型，就像唱歌、奏乐都要按照乐谱（music score)一样，所以称为“脸谱”。关于脸谱的来源，一般认为脸谱来自假面具。京剧脸谱是广大戏曲爱好者非常喜爱的一门艺术，国内外都很流行，被大家公认为是中国传统文化的标志之一。

Peking Opera facial makeup is a kind of special makeup method with national characteristic.Since every historical figure or a certain type of person has an approximate style, like singing, playing music according to the music score, it's called “facial makeup”.As to the facial makeup's origin, it is generally considered that it's from mask.As one of the favorite arts of the traditional opera lovers at home and abroad, Peking Opera facial makeup has been regarded as one of the symbols of Chinese traditional culture.京剧(Peking Opera)已有200多年的历史，是中国的国剧。与其他地方戏相比，京剧享有更高的声誉，但其实京剧融合了多种地方戏的元素。京剧演员的脸谱（facial makeup)和戏服都很精美，相形之下布景则显得十分简单。京剧表演者主要应用四种技能：唱、念、做、打。在古代，京剧大多是在户外演出的，因此演员们形成了一种极具穿透力的唱腔，以便每个人都能听到。

Peking Opera, as the national opera of China, has a history of more than 200 years.Compared with other Chinese local operas, Peking Opera enjoys a higher reputation;but actually it absorbs many elements of other local operas.The facial makeups and costumes of the performers are usually very delicate;by contrast, the backdrops are quite plain.During the performance, the performers mainly utilize four skills: singing, speaking, acting and acrobatic fighting.In ancient times, Peking Opera was mostly performed in the open air, so the performers developed a piercing style of singing that could be heard by everyone.京剧是世界上最古老的戏剧艺术形式之一。从唐代起，京剧的表演者被称为 “梨园弟子(theatrical performer)”。在清代，它在老百姓中也开始流行。表演是在茶馆、饭馆，甚至是在临时搭建的舞台上进行的。每个演员的脸上画着夸张的图案，代表每个人物的性格、角色和命运。这种技艺可能源于古代的宗教和舞蹈。熟悉京剧的观众可以通过观察人物的脸部描绘和服装来了解故事。

Beijing opera is one of the oldest opera art forms in the world.Since the Tang Dynasty,performers of Beijing opera were referred to as “theatrical performers”.During the Qing Dynasty,it became fashionable among ordinary people.Performances were watchcd in tearooms, restaurants, and even on makeshift stages.Exaggerated designs are painted on cach performer's face to symbolize a characters personality,role,and fate.This technique may have originated from ancient religions and dance.Audiences who are familiar with the opera can know the story by observing the characters' facial paintings as well as their costumes.书法(calligraphy)在中国的传统艺术领域占有非常重要的位置。书法已经历时2000多年了。它有五种主要的书写方式，每种都有不同的书写技法。练习书法需要文房四宝(Four Treasures of the Study)。书法被认为是一种需要内心平静的艺术形式。今天，尽管出现了各种各样的现代书写方式，但人们仍然经常将书法作为一种业余爱好进行练习。如今，书法在西方也越来越受欢迎。

In China,calligraphy occupies a very important position in the field of traditional art.Calligraphy has a history lasting for more than 2,000 years.There are five main ways of writing and each needs different techniques.To practice calligraphy requires the Four Treasures of the Study.Calligraphy is considered to be an art form requiring inner peace.Today,although various modern ways of writing have come up,calligraphy is still practiced often as a hobby.Nowadays,it has also become more and more popular among westerners.中国独有的文书工具(calligraphic tools),即笔、墨、纸、砚(ink stone),被称为“文房四宝“(Four Treasures of the Study)。从名称上，我们不难看出中国的书法家和画家珍视它们的程度。尽管这四种工具已经发生了演变，人们仍然相信，如果不使用传统的文房四宝，中国艺术作品就出不了杰作。其他东方国家也继承了中国的这个传统，比如日本。也许这就是为什么日本书法和绘画与中国书法和国画很相似的原因。

Chinese particular calligraphic tools include brush,ink,paper and ink stone,which are known as ”Four Treasures of the Study”.We can easily tell how Chinese calligraphers and painters value them from the name.Despite the evolution of the four tools,it is believed that no Chinese artwork can be a masterpiece without using the traditional four treasures.Other oriental nations such as Japan has inherited this Chinese tradition.Maybe that's why Japanese calligraphy and Japanese painting resemble Chinese calligraphy and Chinese painting.相声(cross talk)是一种中国曲艺(Quyi)表演艺术，它起源于华北地区的民间说唱曲艺，在明朝即已盛行。大多数的相声来自于我们的日常生活。还有一些改编自民间笑话、历史人物、事件和文字游戏。最著名的相声表演艺术家有马三立、侯宝林、马季、姜昆等。相声在一代又一代表演者的努力下，一直是深受知识分子和平民喜爱的国民艺术。

Cross talk is one of Chinese Quyi performing arts.It originated from the folk vocal art and has enjoyed a popularity since the Ming Dynasty.Most of the cross talks come from our daily life.There are also some adapted from folk jokes,historical figures,events and word games.The best-known performers are Ma Sanli,Hou Baolin,Ma Ji,Jiang Kun,etc.Cross talk has been a national art popular among both highbrows and lowbrows with the efforts of performers generation after generation.汉字有成千上万个，尽管其中的大多数差别很细微，且只在历史文献中出现过。研究表明，日常使用的汉字大概有三至四千个。大多数早期汉字是象形字(pictographs),用简单的图画来代表字，但现代汉字中象形文字已经很少了。许多现代汉字是两个或两个以上简单文字的组合。汉字也可以因为其线条和点的排列组合方式被看成是一门抽象艺术(abstract art）。

There are tens of thousands of Chinese characters,though most of them are only slightly different from each other and only seen in historical documents.Studies show that normally three to four thousand characters are used on a daily basis.Most of earlier Chinese characters were pictographs-simple pictures used to mean words, but few modern Chinese characters are pictographs.Many modern Chinese characters are a combination of two or more simple characters.Chinese characters may also be considered to be an abstract art because of how the characters are made up of lines and points.瓷器(porcelain)是一种由精选的瓷土(porcelain clay)或瓷石(pottery stone)、通过工艺流程制成的物件。尽管瓷器由陶器（pottery)发展而来，然而它们在原料、轴(glaze)、烧制温度方面都是不同的。比起陶器，瓷器质地更坚硬，器身更通透，光泽也更好。瓷器在英语里叫做china,因为第一件瓷器就是在中国制造的。瓷器促进了中国和外部世界之间的经济文化交流，并深刻地影响着其他国家的传统文化和生活方式。

Porcelain is a material made from well-chosen porcelain clay or pottery stone through technological processes.Although porcelain is developed from pottery,the two are different in raw material, glaze and firing temperature.Compared with pottery, porcelain has tougher texture,more transparent body and finer luster.It is called china in English because it was first made in China.Porcelain promotes economic and cultural exchanges between China and the outside world, and also profoundly influences the traditional culture and lifestyle of other countries.刺绣(embroidery)是用针和线或纱线(yarn)在织物或其他材料上进行装饰的手工艺。刺绣最常用在无檐帽、有檐帽、外套、毛毯、礼服衬衫、长筒袜、髙尔夫球衫上。令人感到吃惊的是:在刺绣的发展过程中，从起初到后来更精美的阶段，让人感觉不到也说不出来有什么材质或技术的变化。另一方面，我们发现后来很少能达到早期作品中的技术成就和髙水准的工艺。

Embroidery is the handicraft of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread or yarn.It is most often used on caps, hats, coats, blankets, dress shirts, stockings, and golf shirts.It is a striking fact that in the development of embroidery there are no changes of materials or techniques which can be felt or interpreted as advances from a primitive to a later, more refined stage.On the other hand, we find a technical accomplishment and high standard of craftsmanship in early works are rarely attained in later times.孔雀舞(peacock dance)是傣族(Dai ethnic group)最广泛流传的古代舞蹈之一，同时也是傣族最受喜爱的舞蹈。对傣族来说，孔雀象征着好运、幸福、美丽和诚实，所以跳孔雀舞是为了歌颂美好的生活，表达对幸福生活的美好的祝愿。孔雀舞主要在傣历的新年-泼水节（the Water-splashing Festival)、关门节(the Gate Closing Festival)、开门节(the Gate Opening Festival)和一些重要的宗教活动上表演。他们通过跳优雅的孔雀舞来祈求和平与幸福。

The peacock dance is one of the most wide-spread ancient dances and also the best-loved dance of the Dai ethnic group.To the Dai people, the peacock is a symbol of good luck, happiness, beauty and honesty.So to perform this dance is to present a eulogy of good life and express good wishes for a happy life.It is mostly performed on the New Year(Water-splashing Festival)of the Dai calendar, at the Gate Closing Festival,the Gate Opening Festival and some important religious events.They pray for peace and happiness with graceful peacock dancing.剪纸(paper cutting)有着悠久的历史，是传统的民间艺术形式。它可以追溯到东汉时期。在中国的传统文化中，剪纸可以反映生活的许多方面，如繁荣、健康或收获。虽然其他艺术形式，如绘画，也可以显示类似的景象，但剪纸仍然以它的魅力脱颖而出。今天，剪纸主要用做装饰。中国人认为门上的红色剪纸可以给全家人带来好运和幸福。剪纸在中国的传统节日，特别是春节（the Spring Festival)期间更常见。

Paper cutting is a traditional folk art form with a long history.It can be dated back to the Eastern Han Dynasty.In traditional Chinese culture, paper-cuts can reflect various aspects of life such as prosperity, health or harvest.Although other art forms, like painting, can also show similar scenes, paper-cuts still stand out for its charm.Today, paper-cuts are chiefly used as decorations.Chinese people believe that the red paper-cuts on the door can bring good luck and happiness to the whole family.The paper-cuts are more often seen during traditional Chinese festivals, particularly in the Spring Festival.对联(couplet)是由富有诗意的两句话组成，通常是押韵的(rhymed)。人们用所能掌握的最好的书法水平将它们写在红色竖纸条上。上联（the first line of a couplet)贴在前门的右侧，下联贴在前门的左侧。此外，横批(the horizontal scroll)是横着贴在门框上的。对联是中国独特文化的一部分。它也是一个同时与中国语言和文字相关的艺术。今天,对联常被用作中国传统节日的装饰。

The couplet is comprised of a pair of lines of poetry that are usually rhymed,which are written on vertical slips of red paper in the best calligraphic style one can master.The first line of a couplet is posted on the right side of the front door.The second line of a couplet is posted on the left of a couplet side of the front door.In addition,the horizontal scroll is posted across and on top of the doorframe.Couplet is a part of Chinese unique culture and also an art related to both the Chinese,language and Chinese characters.Today,it is often used as a decoration during traditional Chinese festivals.古时在中国风筝也称作“鸢(hawk)”。春秋战国时期(the Spring and Autumn Period),东周哲人墨子(Mo-tse)曾“费时三年，以木制木鸢，飞升天空”，但这只木鸢只飞了一天就坏了