About Chinese Mythology
Chinese Mythology is an independent website dedicated to sharing the rich and fascinating world of ancient Chinese legends, gods, heroes, and mythical creatures with readers around the world.
A Living Tradition
Chinese mythology is not a relic of the past — it is a living tradition that continues to shape Chinese culture, art, literature, and daily life. From the Dragon Boat Festival commemorating Qu Yuan to the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival celebrating Chang'e, these ancient stories remain woven into the fabric of modern China.
Unlike Greek or Norse mythology, which are often treated as finished chapters of history, Chinese mythology continues to evolve. New retellings in films, television dramas, and video games bring fresh interpretations to tales that are thousands of years old.
What We Cover
- Creation Myths — The cosmic origins of the universe, from Pangu separating heaven and earth to Nuwa molding humanity from yellow clay
- Gods & Immortals — The celestial bureaucracy of the Jade Emperor, the carefree Eight Immortals, and the many deities of the Chinese pantheon
- Heroes & Legends — Mortal heroes who defied the heavens, from Hou Yi shooting down the suns to Yu the Great taming the Great Flood
- Mythical Creatures — Dragons, phoenixes, qilin, and the many fantastic beings that populate Chinese folklore and imagination
Our Approach
We present these myths with scholarly care and storytelling spirit. Where multiple versions of a story exist — and they often do — we note the variations and their cultural significance. We believe that understanding these stories is key to understanding Chinese civilization itself, and we strive to make them accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
Our Editorial Team
Every article on Chinese Mythology is researched and reviewed by people with deep knowledge of Chinese folklore, religion, and literary traditions.
Kai Xin
Founder & Editor
Developer and mythology enthusiast based in Xiamen, Fujian — a city steeped in folk religion and temple culture. Kai grew up with the stories of Nuwa, Hou Yi, and the Eight Immortals as bedtime tales, and built this site to share the richness of Chinese mythology with English-speaking readers. GitHub →
Lin Yutong
Research & Writing
Based in southern China. Researches primary sources — from the Shanhaijing to Fengshen Yanyi — and translates ancient myths into engaging English narratives. Focuses on connecting mythological themes to their historical and cultural roots.
Our Standards
- Scholarly rigor: We cite classical sources and note when multiple versions of a myth exist
- Cultural respect: We present myths as living traditions, not museum pieces
- Accessibility: Complex concepts are explained clearly for non-Chinese readers
- No hidden sponsors: We are not funded by any government agency or religious organization
- Corrections policy: When we get something wrong, we correct it promptly and transparently
Where We Are
Chinese Mythology is operated from Xiamen, Fujian Province, China. Our contributors are based in cities across the country, with deep connections to the regional traditions they write about.
In English, For the World
All our content is written in English, making these extraordinary stories accessible to a global audience. Whether you are a student of Chinese culture, a mythology enthusiast, or simply curious about the stories behind Chinese festivals and traditions, you will find something here to inspire and enlighten you.