Colours of China - RED

Ok so this colour is a bit of a cheat with Christmas just gone and Chinese New Year coming to a close.

Red- it permeates all of China from daily life; road signs, clothes, the communist government and even food. To much deeper significant levels, with important meanings and symbolism.

Red, corresponding with fire, symbolizes good fortune and joy. So is also the symbol for happiness-the children are especially happy during Chinese New Year being showered in gifts and little red envelopes full of money!

So here's red I've snapped in the last week or so:

 

During the Yuan Dynasty, which began in the 13th century, Chinese Lanterns became a symbol of hope and good wishes. Here a group of girls are doing their morning dance practice. I love the street cleaning nonchalantly watching by the tree.

Poinsettias at Christmas.

Me in a red a gold tatt heaven in Yu Gardens.

Everyday Red.

These little 3 wheelers were all over this village in Qingdao.

And not forgetting Chillies! Especially in sichuan food.

Some treasures at Dong Tai Lu ‘Antiques’ Market. Mao badges were an integral part of the cult of Mao, loyal Maoist followers proudly war them, now there are mountains on market stall after market stall.

Chinese New Year Welcomed in the Year of the Dragon. This Glassy eyed dragon looks dead inside!

Real lucky pants; just found my size! According to Chinese tradition, it’s lucky to wear red on the first day of the year, this even goes right down to your socks and pants. Not so lucky if they get mixed in with your white wash.

Lanterns adorn everything, they could have a blog to themselves.

And Chinese New Year wouldn’t be Chinese New Year without FIREWORKS! And boy do they light allot!

I posted a quick video on youtube.

A couple of pence for a mountain of bangers.

Inside the Oriental Pearl TV tower.

Chinese Money envelopes.

I’m sure this isn’t the last of Red being posted this year!