KotobaInteractive
Journal

The Kotoba Interactive journal.

Editorial features on the cultures, history and languages of Asia. Filter by culture, by topic, or search for what inspires you.

Glossary
4 articles
ChineseCulture6 min

Feng shui: the Chinese art of harmonizing space and qi

History and principles of feng shui, the Chinese art of harmony: qi, yin and yang, the five elements, the luopan compass, and the line between tradition and superstition.

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ChineseArts5 min

Peking Opera: Makeup, Roles and History of Chinese Jingju

The history of Peking opera (jingju): its birth in the 18th century, the four roles, the lianpu painted faces and their colors, Mei Lanfang and the preservation of a total art.

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ChineseCulture6 min

Jade in China: the stone more precious than gold

History and symbolism of Chinese jade: nephrite and jadeite, the five Confucian virtues, bi discs and cong tubes, jade burial suits and the imperial seal.

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ChineseArts6 min

Chinese calligraphy: the art of the brush and the breath

History and principles of Chinese calligraphy (shufa): the four treasures of the study, the five script styles, Wang Xizhi and the link between gesture, breath and beauty.

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