Ancient Chinese Kites
Ancient China for Kids

Kites were invented by the ancient Chinese about 2,300 years ago! In Ancient Chinese, in very early times, kites were used by the military. They were used as messages and for measuring distances. Soldiers could see them flying and knew what they meant. Legend says: They also made kites make terrible sounds to scare the enemy.

By Tang times, kites had become popular for use by everyone for pleasure. They were made of silk and bamboo. They were designed to act like birds in the air with wings and color, especially the color red, which meant good luck. Some had whistles attached or strings that could be spun to make harmonious sounds. Some people even added bells to the string of their kite. At festivals and gatherings, you would often see kites flying overhead.

Chinese Kites

Ancient Chinese Kite Legends (youtube, animated)