Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. The 15th day of the new year is called the Lantern Festival. The Chinese calendar is based on a combination of lunar and solar movements. The lunar cycle is about 29.5 days. In order to "catch up" with the solar calendar the Chinese insert an extra month once every few years (seven years out of a 19-year cycle).This is why, according to the solar calendar, the Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year.
This year, we celebrate the year of the rabbit. A person born in the year of the Rabbit possesses one of the most fortunate of the twelve animal signs. The Rabbit, or Hare is the emblem of longevity and is said to derive his essence from the Moon.The Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel kindness and sensitivity to his beauty. His soft speech and graceful and nimble ways embody all the desirable traits of a successful diplomat or seasoned politician.
This year is considered a calm one, which is considered good especially after the ferocious year of the Tiger. It is believed good taste and refinement will shine on everything and people will acknowledge that persuasion is better than force. However we have to watch out not to become too indulgent and the Rabbit tends to spoil those who like too much comfort.
In order to celebrate Chinese New Year I've presented some of my sister's photography of China which she took when traveling. She captured some beautiful shots especially when visiting the Art Expo.
If you are interested in her photography visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/emma_chung/
Photography: Emma Chung
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