The first person to initiate the Hanfu movement in China

The Road to the Revival of Hanfu: The Legendary Story of Wang Letian and Hanfu

China, a land of profound cultural heritage and one of the world's renowned ancient civilizations, has given birth to countless splendid cultural blossoms throughout its long history. Among them, Hanfu culture shines brightly.

Hanfu, the traditional clothing of the Han nationality, holds a significant place in Chinese history. With its full name being "Traditional Clothing of the Han Nationality," it is also known by various names such as Han Yiguan (Han clothing and headgear), Hanzhuang (Han clothing), and Huafu (flowery clothing). Dating back from the reign of Emperor Huangdi to the middle of the 17th century (the late Ming and early Qing dynasties), Hanfu has evolved naturally in the main residential areas of the Han nationality. Guided by the "Huaxia-Han" culture as the background and leading ideology, and centered around the etiquette culture of Huaxia, it has developed a unique style and character that distinguishes it clearly from the traditional clothing and accessory systems of other ethnic groups.

Hanfu is not just a set of garments; it is a living manifestation of China's status as a "nation of refined dress," a "state of etiquette," a "land of rich brocade," and Seres. It embodies the outstanding craftsmanship and aesthetics of dyeing, weaving, and embroidery of the Han nationality. Moreover, it has inherited more than 30 items of China's intangible cultural heritage and protected Chinese arts and crafts. The intricate designs, delicate fabrics, and beautiful colors of Hanfu reflect the wisdom and creativity of the Han people over the centuries.

However, the history of Hanfu has not been without challenges. In 1645, Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty issued an order that "clothing and headgear should all follow the system of this dynasty." As a result, the traditional clothing of the Han nationality, Hanfu, almost disappeared from the land of China. This was a great loss for the Han people and for Chinese culture as a whole. While the influence of Hanfu could still be seen in the clothing of countries such as Japan and Korea, it was a painful reminder of the decline of Hanfu in its homeland.

For more than three centuries, Hanfu remained in obscurity. But in 2003, a man named Wang Letian took a bold step that would change the course of Hanfu's history. Wang Letian, a courageous individual with a deep passion for traditional culture, decided to wear Hanfu on the streets. His action was not just a simple act of fashion; it was a statement of cultural revival and pride.

On November 22, 2003, Wang Letian stepped out onto the streets of Zhengzhou wearing Hanfu. This was the first time in more than 300 years that the traditional clothing of the Han nationality had appeared on the streets. Wang Letian's Hanfu was a combination of a thin velvet shenyi and a cocoon silk outer garment. Unlike the long gown and mandarin jacket, Hanfu has no buttons and is fastened entirely with ribbons. Although this Hanfu was simple and even a bit ill-fitting, it was a labor of love for Wang Letian and his friends.

To create this Hanfu, Wang Letian and his like-minded friends had put in a great deal of effort. They spent countless hours researching historical literature and studying the regulations and styles of ancient Hanfu. Despite being inexperienced in sewing, they picked up the needle and thread with determination. Some of them even pricked their fingers in the process, but their passion for Hanfu kept them going. They were not just making a piece of clothing; they were resurrecting a part of their cultural heritage.

As Wang Letian walked through the urban area of Zhengzhou in his Hanfu, he encountered various reactions. When he passed by a shopping mall, the welcome girl at the door mistook him for a Japanese person wearing a kimono and shouted inside to attract attention. When he reached the corner of the pedestrian street, several children saw him and jeered, shouting "Baka yarou." These reactions were a reflection of the long absence of Hanfu from people's lives and the lack of understanding about traditional culture.

But Wang Letian remained undeterred. He walked through the crowd with dignity and confidence, strolling along the busiest street in Zhengzhou. His actions demonstrated his unwavering belief in the beauty and significance of Hanfu. This experience only strengthened his determination to promote Hanfu and raise awareness about traditional culture.

Soon, photos of Wang Letian wearing Hanfu spread across the Internet. The wind was strong that day, and his hair was a bit messy, yet he exuded an air of ancient Han charm. These photos caught the attention of Zhang Congxing, a journalist from the Lianhe Zaobao of Singapore. Zhang Congxing was intrigued by the sight of a person wearing traditional Han clothing on the streets of a modern city. He recognized the significance of this event and decided to write an article about it.

This article became the first report on Hanfu, attracting widespread attention from domestic and foreign media. It sparked a wave of interest and discussion about Hanfu and traditional culture. Wang Letian's actions had not only inspired people within China but also caught the attention of people around the world. His story became a symbol of cultural revival and a source of inspiration for those who were passionate about preserving and promoting traditional cultures.

The impact of Wang Letian's actions was far-reaching. It led to a growing interest in Hanfu among the general public. More and more people began to learn about Hanfu and its rich history and cultural significance. Hanfu enthusiasts started organizing events and activities to promote Hanfu and traditional culture. They held Hanfu parades, cultural festivals, and workshops to educate people about the beauty of Hanfu and its role in Chinese culture.

In recent years, the revival of Hanfu has gained significant momentum. The popularity of Hanfu has spread rapidly across the country. People of all ages and backgrounds are now wearing Hanfu on various occasions. Hanfu has become a fashion statement and a way for people to express their love for traditional culture.

The revival of Hanfu is not just about wearing beautiful clothes. It is a movement that aims to revive and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Han nationality. It is a call to remember and cherish the traditions and values that have been passed down through generations. Through the revival of Hanfu, people are rediscovering the beauty and wisdom of traditional Chinese culture.

Hanfu also plays an important role in promoting cultural exchanges and understanding. As more people around the world become interested in Hanfu, it provides an opportunity for cross-cultural communication and cooperation. People from different countries can learn about Chinese culture through Hanfu and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of its diversity and richness.

In addition to its cultural significance, Hanfu also has economic potential. The growing popularity of Hanfu has led to the emergence of a thriving Hanfu industry. There are now numerous Hanfu designers, manufacturers, and retailers. Hanfu-related products such as accessories, cosmetics, and cultural souvenirs are also in high demand. This not only provides economic opportunities for entrepreneurs but also contributes to the development of the cultural and creative industries.

As the revival of Hanfu continues to gain strength, it is important to ensure that it is carried out in a sustainable and respectful way. We should respect the historical authenticity and cultural traditions of Hanfu while also adapting it to modern life and aesthetics. We should encourage innovation and creativity in Hanfu design while also maintaining its core values and characteristics.

In conclusion, the story of Wang Letian and the revival of Hanfu is a remarkable chapter in the history of Chinese culture. Wang Letian's courageous act in 2003 marked the beginning of a new era for Hanfu. His actions inspired countless people to take up the cause of cultural revival and preservation. Today, Hanfu is not only a beautiful form of clothing but also a symbol of cultural pride and identity. As we continue to promote the revival of Hanfu and other traditional cultures, we are not only preserving our heritage but also creating a brighter future for generations to come.