Chinese Folk Tales

Special Bonus Episode for UN Chinese Language Day! 

Have you ever wondered where the world's oldest continuous writing system came from? Today, we're stepping back thousands of years to meet Cang Jie, the legendary figure believed to have created Chinese characters. Legend says his innovation was so extraordinary that the heavens were moved to shower the earth with grain as a celestial reward – a miraculous event we still celebrate today as Grain Rain (Gǔyǔ).

Would you lose one race to win the whole match? Ancient strategist Sun Bin proved that smart matchups beat raw speed. And sometimes, what looks like bad luck… isn't. From "Tian Ji's Horse Racing" to "Sai Weng Lost His Horse," two stories about timing, patience, and perspective. 

(01:04) The Story of Tian Ji's Horse Racing — How to Lose One Race and Win the Game

(06:21) The Story of Sai Weng Losing His Horse — When Bad Luck Turns Out to Be Good

From "Bo Le Discerns a Noble Steed" to "Mistaking a Toad for a Horse," two short Chinese horse-related tales tell big lessons about talent, judgment, and flexibility. 

(01:05) The story of Bo Le Discerns a Noble Steed

(06:21) The story of Mistaking a Toad for a Horse

He rarely spoke. He never boasted. But in the Baoxiang Kingdom, when everyone else failed, the White Dragon Horse drew his sword and revealed his true courage. As the Year of the Horse approaches, listen to this powerful chapter from the classic "Journey to the West."

A dragon-turned horse. A punishment-turned pilgrimage. In this episode of Chinese Folk Tales, we tell the story of the White Dragon Horse from the classic "Journey to the West" — a silent hero for the Year of the Horse.

As the Year of the Horse approaches, we're saddling up for a journey through China's timeless horse tales. From Bo Le spotting true talent, to Tian Ji's clever race, to the White Dragon Horse of Journey to the West—these aren't just old stories. They're lessons in vision, resilience, and strategy. Gallop into the Year of the Horse with us.

In this special episode of "Chinese Folk Tales", our journalist Bianca takes you on an unforgettable journey through Xinjiang — from the vibrant Grand Bazaar of Urumqi to the Frog Alley of Turpan. She bites into freshly baked nang, stands before the legendary Flaming Mountains straight out of the classic novel "Journey to the West", and dives into local life for a truly immersive experience. Curious to know what surprised her most? Hit play and join the adventure!

00:00 — Off to Xinjiang!

02:36 — Urumqi Unveiled: Bazaar Buzz & Nang Coffee

07:20 — Into the Flaming Mountain: Where Monkey King "Left His Mark"

09:57 — Walking Through History: The Jiaohe Ruins

11:13 — Frog Valley Legends

13:24 — Back in Studio: Stories, Snacks & Memories

Over a thousand years ago, an aging doctor discovered that sometimes the best medicine comes in the form of food. In this episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we follow the story of Shou Zhua Fan – Xinjiang's fragrant lamb pilaf eaten with bare hands which is a dish that heals, nourishes, and forges community connections. More than a dish, it's a story you can taste.

Tender chicken, spicy chilies, saucy potatoes, and chewy noodles – all piled high on one massive plate. More than just food, Big Plate Chicken is a tale of drivers, highways, and the irresistible joy of sharing a meal. In this episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we dish out the flavorful story behind Dapanji – the "Big Plate Chicken" that won the hearts of many.

Under the blazing sun of the Taklamakan Desert, one shepherd's clumsy mishap gave birth to a timeless treasure. In this bonus episode of "Chinese Folk Tales: Tales on a Plate", we trace the quirky legend of Turhong and his "dough hat" that turned into Xinjiang's most beloved flatbread – Nang. Crispy, golden, and steeped in tradition, Nang is more than food – it's a story shared and enjoyed across vast regions of the world.