Traditional Games Chinese Children Play: A Look into Childhood Fun in China

Just like when you were a child, Chinese children too enjoy playing games that are fun and based on creativity! Many traditional games in China have been passed down through generations. Today, we will show you some popular games played by elementary school children in China, for you to try with your friends, perhaps! If you learn Chinese or have been on school trips to China already, this article will be even more enjoyable for you to follow!

1. Ti jian zi (踢毽子) – Kick the Jianzi

Jianzi (毽子) is a traditional Chinese shuttlecock made of feathers and a weighted base. The game of Ti jian zi involves players taking turns to kick the jianzi into the air, keeping it off the ground as long as possible by using their feet. Players can use any part of their foot except the toe to touch the jianzi.

• Players take turns kicking the jianzi.
• If the jianzi touches the ground, the next player takes their turn.
• Players can add challenges by using different body parts (e.g., knee, head) or by setting a number of consecutive kicks to achieve.

2. Dou Da (抖大) – Shadow Tag

Dou Da is a popular variation of tag that is commonly played in schoolyards. In this game, one child is “it,” and their goal is to tag other players. However, there’s a twist—players can only be tagged if their shadow touches the shadow of the “it” player. Haha!

• One child is designated as “it.”
• The “it” player must tag others by stepping on their shadows.
• If a player is tagged, they become the new “it.”

3. Shuang Lu (双陆) – Backgammon

Shuang Lu is a traditional board game similar to backgammon and has been enjoyed by Chinese children for centuries. The game is played on a board featuring 24 points, with each player moving their pieces around based on the roll of two dice.

• Each player starts with 15 pieces, aiming to move all their pieces off the board first.
• Players take turns rolling two dice and moving their pieces according to the numbers rolled.
• Players can block their opponent’s pieces by occupying a point with two or more of their own pieces.

4. Tiao Shao (跳绳) – Jump Rope

Jump rope, or Tiao Shao, is a classic playground activity loved by children in China. It can be played alone or with friends and is often accompanied by rhymes and songs.

• One or more players take turns jumping over a long rope swung by others.
• Players can set specific patterns (single jumps, double unders) or incorporate chants or songs.
• Players can compete to see who can jump the longest or perform tricks.

5. Zhuā Jiāo (抓角) – Grab the Corner

In this game, children stand in a circle and hold hands. One child is designated as “it” and stands in the centre. The players must try to avoid getting tagged while also trying to “grab” the corners of the circle created by their holding hands.

• Players must keep their hands joined while moving in a circle.
• The “it” player tries to tag others while they attempt to avoid being touched.
• If a player is tagged, they become “it.”

6. Huan Huan Pao (欢欢跑) – Running and Hiding

Huan Huan Pao is a game of tag that incorporates elements of hide and seek. One player is “it,” while the others scatter and hide. The “it” player must find and tag the hidden players.

• One player counts while the others find hiding spots.
• The “it” player tries to find and tag the hidden players.
• Once tagged, players must join the “it” player to help find others.

7. Bian Lian (变脸) – Face Changing

Bian Lian is a traditional Chinese performance art often seen in Sichuan opera, but it can also be adapted into a game for children. In this version, children take turns acting out different characters or emotions by changing their facial expressions and movements quickly.

• One child performs while others guess the character or emotion being portrayed.
• Players take turns performing and guessing.

Summary

The games mentioned above, from Ti jian zi to Huan Huan Pao, reflect cultural values while and are also enjoyable pastimes. As Western children engage with these games, they can learn more about Chinese culture and connect with their peers. These games remind us that, regardless of cultural differences, the joy of play is a universal language that transcends borders.