The Story of Nian (年): A Chinese New Year Tale
Long ago, a man-eating monster called “Nian” lived deep in the ocean, sleeping year-round except on the last day of the Lunar Year. On that night, Nian would come ashore, attacking and devouring everything in its path, striking terror into the hearts of villagers.
Unable to defeat the powerful beast, the villagers fled to the mountains each New Year’s Eve to escape. One year, as they prepared to leave, a traveller arrived seeking food and shelter. Only an old woman welcomed him, offering a meal and a place to stay. Touched by her kindness, the traveller revealed a secret to repel Nian.
That night, when Nian approached the village, all the houses were dark except for the old woman’s, which glowed brightly. As the beast neared, it was startled by deafening firecrackers and frightened by the red paper covering the house. Terrified, Nian fled back to the ocean.
When the villagers returned, they found the old woman unharmed and learned her secret: Nian feared loud noises and the colour red.
The following year, the villagers stayed up all night, lighting firecrackers, hanging red lanterns, pasting red decorations, wearing red clothes, and creating loud festivities. Nian never returned, and these practices became the traditions of Chinese New Year, symbolizing the triumph over evil and the welcoming of prosperity and joy.
Chinese candy box (quán-hé)
A Chinese candy box (quán-hé) is a traditional container used during Chinese New Year to store candy and other edible goods, dating back to the Ming Dynasty in 1567. Traditionally lacquerware, these boxes are often red or black, symbolizing good fortune and joy. Modern versions are commonly made of plastic due to cost, though lacquerware boxes still exist.
The term quán-hé (全盒) translates to “Box of Togetherness,” symbolizing unity and harmony. These boxes are typically round or octagonal, with 6, 8, 9, or 12 compartments—numbers considered auspicious in Chinese culture. They hold a variety of treats, including sugar-preserved fruits, wrapped candies, fried snacks, and nuts, each carrying symbolic meanings.
Cantonese candy boxes often include items with cultural significance. For instance, Lucky Candy, a strawberry-flavored hard candy in red wrappers, represents luck and prosperity. Coconut candy, symbolizing family ties, is also popular. Other sweets like White Rabbit, Sugus, and Ferrero Rocher are added to signify life’s sweetness.
Pastries such as fried dumplings (油角 yóu-jiǎo), representing wealth, and smiling sesame cookie balls (siu hau zou), symbolizing happiness, are often included. Other common items include:
- Chocolate coins
- Dried candied lotus root (symbolizing lasting relationships)
- Dried candied lotus seeds (representing fertility)
- Dried candied coconut and winter melon
- Dried melon seeds (happiness and luck)
- Dried peanuts
These delicacies reflect the themes of prosperity, happiness, and unity, making the Chinese candy box a cherished tradition during festive occasions.
Further reading: 15 Days of Lunar New Year