Chinese Folk Tales

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.

Prof. Zhang Juwen argues that translating "龙" as "dragon" perpetuates colonial discourse. The Chinese loong embodies benevolence, ethics, and hope, fundamentally different from the Western concept. True cross-cultural exchange requires a firm challenge to entrenched stereotypes.

Folklore expert Professor Zhang Juwen reveals how ancient Chinese folk tales, while adapting, retain their core ethics, fostering global connections and face-to-face bonding in a digital world.

Once upon a time, the desert kingdom lay choked by yellow dust from raging sandstorms, waiting for a miracle to change its fate. How did it transform into a land renowned for its sweet fruits? This episode reveals the answer. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Have you ever wondered how the very first stringed instrument came into being? Maybe this story can explain the birth of the very special Dombra. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

When times get tough, the Dragon King descends from Heaven to battle the drought – but the arrival of a mysterious demon girl throws everything into disarray. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Born in a small village, she captures the king's heart and rises to greatness, leaving a mark on history with her mastery of Xinjiang's unique Muqam music. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Gold coins appear where no one expects…Afanti and his trusty donkey are at it again, showing a greedy man that greed isn't golden. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

Meet the legendary donkey-riding Afanti, renowned for his clever solutions. With the wit sharper than any sword, Afanti can always hatch a clever plan to turn the tables – teaching the arrogant miser an unforgettable a lesson in generosity. For more captivating tales and videos, follow us on Facebook.

In this new series of Chinese Folk Tales, we journey to Xinjiang — the vast and enchanting land in far northwest China, home to many ethnic groups that hold a rich reservoir of stories passed down through generations. It's on this land that a witty man rides his donkey backwards, a sacred lake is guarded by ancient spirits, and girls weave tradition into their long braids. Listen to "Chinese Folk Tales: Xinjiang" and discover a Xinjiang you've never seen before.