An encyclopedia with an exclusive focus on Beijing folklore was recently released at the Beijing Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute. The book is a joint compilation by the Beijing History, Geography and Folklore Society and the Beijing Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute, and covers northern China’s folk customs.
The book is a collection of ten categories of folklore, which includes seasonal divisions, weddings and funerals, folk entertainment, cultural taboos, as well as folk customs on traffic, residence, business, opera, clothing, and diet. The compilation of the book started in October 2016, and took six years to complete.
The writing team systematically integrated ancient and modern folk customs materials recorded in historical documents, based on a general survey of the folk customs in Beijing and the whole of Northern China. Readers can find a large amount of details about the historical origins, ritual performances, inheritance, social functions, and the evolution of various folk customs.
The book is an essential resource for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Beijing and Northern China. It provides a comprehensive guide to the folk customs of the region, offering insights into the unique traditions that have developed over centuries.
The editors have painstakingly researched and collated a wealth of information on Beijing folklore, making this book an invaluable reference for researchers, scholars, and enthusiasts alike. The book is also accessible to the general public, with clear explanations and detailed descriptions of each folk custom.
The book is not just a collection of facts and figures, but also includes personal accounts and anecdotes that bring the folk customs to life. The editors have also included illustrations and photographs to help readers visualize the customs and traditions described in the book.
This encyclopedia of Beijing folklore is a tribute to the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region. It is a testament to the efforts of the editors and contributors who have worked tirelessly to compile this comprehensive and informative volume.
Overall, the book is an important contribution to the study of Chinese folklore and culture. It is a valuable resource for researchers and scholars, and a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history and traditions of Beijing and Northern China.