Blue and white porcelain plate with a dragon. Photos Provided to China Daily

Azure dragon 青龙 (qing long)

The Azure Dragon of the East is one of the most famous dragons in China. One of the Four Constellations (, s xing, four symbols) it can be seen in the night sky alongside the Vermilion Bird of the South, the White Tiger of the West and the Black Turtle of the North. The Azure Dragon has a reputation for providing protection and in Chinese literature, it has been reincarnated as several famous war heroes. The Azure Dragon is associated with spring and the element of wood. The day that the Azure Dragon "raises its heads" (when the constellation becomes visible) has gained popularity as an auspicious day to get a haircut.

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