Chinese Dragon History

This is a brief introduction to Chinese dragon history and the Chinese dragons impact on the culture of China. The effects of Chinese dragons can be seen in all aspects of Chinese culture, including music, architecture and literature.

Chinese dragon history scarcely resembles that of Western Dragons, which offers us stories of evil and violent creatures. In China dragons are depicted as wise, beautiful and very auspicious creatures who protect the people of China.

Chinese dragons are highly regarded by the people of China, and some still refer to themselves as descendants of the dragon. The past emperors of China considered themselves to be dragons, and in those times many of the people of China believed that emperors could become dragons.

Everything related to the Chinese Dragon is considered blessed and in China the Year of the Dragon is a very lucky year in which to be born, as Chinese people believe being born during the Year of the Dragon will bestow upon you health, wealth and longevity.

According to Chinese mythology the dragon is composed of  nine different animals, though different sources use differing descriptions, the following is a generalized description of the animals a dragon is composed of; a devils fiery eyes, a camels head, ears of an ox, deer's horns, serpents neck, eagle’s talons, tiger’s paws, frogs belly, carps scales and a long beard.

The Nine Major Chinese Dragons Are:

1. Horned Dragon
2. Homeless Dragon
3. Celestial Dragon
4. Spiritual Dragon
5. Winged Dragon
6. Yellow Dragon
7. Dragon of hidden treasures
8. Dragon of the four seas
9. Coiling Dragon