Deep within the annals of Chinese folklore lies a cryptic and chilling entity known as the "Jiangshi," a creature that combines the terror of the undead with a surreal hopping gait. Often referred to as "hopping vampires," these Jiangshi are not your typical bloodsuckers but possess an allure and intrigue that has captured the imaginations of generations. In this article, we will delve into the eerie world of Jiangshi, exploring their origins, characteristics, and the enduring influence they have had on Chinese culture and beyond.
The Origins of Jiangshi
The term "Jiangshi" (僵尸) is derived from two Chinese characters: "Jiang" meaning "stiff" or "hard" and "shi" meaning "corpse." Together, they paint a vivid picture of these undead beings, whose bodies are rigid and stiff due to rigor mortis. Jiangshi is believed to have originated in ancient China, with the first recorded mention dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). These stories were often passed down through oral traditions, leading to various interpretations and adaptations over the centuries.
Characteristics of Jiangshi
One of the most distinctive features of Jiangshi is its peculiar mode of locomotion. Unlike traditional vampires that glide or fly, Jiangshi moves about by hopping. Their stiff limbs and inability to bend at the joints force them to take small hops with their arms outstretched in front, giving them an eerie and comical appearance.
Jiangshi are typically described as reanimated corpses, with a pallid, desiccated appearance. They are often depicted in ragged burial clothes, with long, disheveled hair, and their eyes may be bloodshot and menacing.
While Jiangshi are often compared to Western vampires, they do not drink blood. Instead, they feed on the life force or "qi" of the living, draining their victims of vital energy.
Just like their Western counterparts, Jiangshi has its own set of vulnerabilities. They are said to be repelled by certain items, such as mirrors, talismans, and garlic. Additionally, they are highly sensitive to sunlight and must return to their resting place during the day.
The Influence of Jiangshi
Jiangshi has left an indelible mark on Chinese popular culture. Their presence can be felt in various forms of media, including literature, film, television, and video games. Notable examples include the 1985 Hong Kong comedy-horror film "Mr. Vampire" and the more recent animated series "Scissor Seven," which features a Jiangshi character. These adaptations often blend horror and humor, showcasing the enduring fascination with these creatures.
In contemporary times, Jiangshi has also found its way into global pop culture, thanks to the spread of Chinese folklore and cinema. International audiences have been introduced to the hopping vampires through movies like "Rigor Mortis" (2013) and "Vampire Cleanup Department" (2017), sparking interest in this unique aspect of Chinese mythology. The character Qiqi in Genshin Impact is also a Jiangshi.
After learning about Jiangshi, let's assemble Jiangshi paper toys together as homework. The template was designed by Christopher Ryan, now author of the DIY Head Wall Papercraft series on Etsy.
Download and build your own Cute Chinese Vampire - Jiangshi Paper Toy.
If you are curious, the audience can search for images of Jiangshi creations on Google. I didn't include them in the article illustrations because I didn't want you to be scared. If you feel okay, let me know in the comments below, next time I will scare you. 👻
Graphic: Paper Iconic
