Kite and sports

Kite flying is a traditional Chinese pastime, with literally millions of followers  across the nation. In recent years, kite flying has been popularized as a sports activity as well as entertainment.

Chinese believe that kite flying is good for the health and that flying kites in spring banishes excessive internal heat and strengthens immunity. Even watching kite flying is beneficial as it is good exercise for the cervical vertebrae and eyesight.

It is best to have two people flying a kite: one to hold the reel and the other to fly the kite itself. For a big dragon kite at least three people are needed: one to hold the reel and kite head, another to support the middle section, and a third for the tail.

Kite flying in the Tiananmen Square is a favorite pastime. The Tiananmen Square is probably the most popular place in Beijing and the whole of China to fly kites. Flyers and spectators meet here to admire kites and share experiences. This is where most foreigners first encounter traditional kites. Many buy kites here to impress their friends back home, but kite enthusiasts can be seen in any Chinese park.

A sky densely dotted with kites is one China's most joyful sights. Approach Tiananmen Square and observe these points among the clouds as well as people with their upturned faces and fixed gazes holding silk. See the senior citizens happily flying their kites? True traditions never die.

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