2024 is the Year of the Dragon in traditional Chinese calendar. The dragon is the only magical creature among the 12 zodiac animals. There’s an old Chinese story about the dragon having nine sons. Each of these offspring has a special talent and a unique personality. Some bring good luck, some are brave, and others are fair and just. In Chinese culture, the number “nine” often means “a whole lot.” So, there are many different versions of the nine sons of the dragon. The most reliable records we have come from the Ming dynasty writer Li Dongyang’s Huailutang Collection(Huailutang ji). Let’s take a look at who they are.

1.Qiuniu

The eldest dragon child is very gentle. It is said that its ears can hear all the sounds in the world. It loves to sit on musical instruments and listen to beautiful music.

2.Yazi

Yazi’s name means “to glare angrily,” reflecting its fierce and combative nature. That’s why you’ll often see yazi on the hilt or handle of swords and knives, with the blade emerging from its mouth, making weapons look super cool and powerful.

3.Chaofeng

Chaofeng is the explorer among the sons of the dragon. It likes to perch high up and look at everything below. If you visit the Forbidden City in Beijing, look up at the roof corners and you might spot it there! It makes buildings look prettier, and people believe it can keep homes safe.

4.Pulao

The dragon-shaped knob on many large bells is pulao, known for its loud voice. Despite being a dragon’s son, it is terrified of whales and often roars loudly when scared. The wooden mallet used to strike the bell is often shaped like a whale, causing pulao to produce a loud sound.

5. Suanni

Suanni looks a bit like a lion. It likes to sit quietly in smoky places, like temples or on incense burners. It may look tough, but it is actually very gentle.

6. Baxia

Baxia is super strong! It is said that baxia can carry mountains on his back. It looks like a mixture of a turtle body and a dragon head, symbolizing longevity and good fortune. People place large stone tablets on its back because they believe it can keep them standing forever.

7. Bi’an

Bi’an, also known as Xianzhang, symbolizes justice and integrity. It often crouches on either side of the main hall in government offices, watching over to ensure justice and protect the people.  

8. Bixi

Bixi is the artsy one among the nine sons of the dragon. It loves reading and studying. You’ll often find it curled up on top of stone tablets, studying inscriptions.

9. Chiwen

The dragon-shaped beast at the ends of the Forbidden City’s roof ridges is chiwen. It is said to have originated from a sea creature and has a large mouth that can summon rain, protecting ancient buildings from fire.