Spring Festival Couplets: A Timeless Chinese New Year Tradition [2026 Horse Year Updated]

Spring Festival couplets are one of the most beloved and visible cultural symbols of the Chinese New Year (also called the Spring Festival). Every year during this festive season, homes and public places across China (and in Chinese communities around the world) are decorated with bright red strips of paper adorned with poetic phrases. These couplets express people’s hopes for the coming year and add joy to the holiday atmosphere.

What Are Spring Festival Couplets?

Spring Festival couplets (春联, chūnlián) are pairs of poetic lines written vertically on red paper and displayed on the sides of doorways. A third horizontal banner, called a hengpi, is often placed above the entrance to complete the set.

These couplets follow specific rules in Chinese language and poetry:

• The two vertical lines must contain the same number of characters.
• They must balance in tone and meaning.
• The phrases traditionally convey good wishes such as prosperity, peace, health, and happiness.

Origins and Cultural Significance of Spring Festival Couplets

The custom of pasting couplets during the New Year dates back more than a thousand years. It evolved from an ancient tradition known as peach wood charms (taofu), which were wooden plaques once hung to ward off evil spirits. Over time, paper replaced wood, and poetic couplets became the norm.

Red is the dominant color for spring couplets because in Chinese culture red symbolizes good fortune, joy, and the power to scare away negative forces. Many families still prefer hand-written calligraphy for couplets, believing it brings extra blessings.

How Spring Festival Couplets Are Used

In practice, people put up spring festival couplets on the eve of the Lunar New Year. Traditionally, families would write their own couplets with ink and brush. Today, printed versions are widely available, though handwritten ones remain treasured for their personal and artistic value.

Placement is also meaningful:

• The first line (shàng lián) goes on the right side of the door
• The second line (xià lián) goes on the left
• The horizontal inscription (héng pī) goes above the doorframe

Together, the couplets welcome good luck and symbolize the transition from the old year to the new.

What They Represent

Spring Festival couplets are more than decorations. They reflect deep cultural values and human hopes. Their literary form embodies balance and harmony, concepts central to Chinese philosophy. And the festival spirit they convey wishing for peace, fortune, and harmony and unites families and communities as they usher in a fresh beginning.

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Conclusion

Spring couplets are more than just festive decorations, they are a beautiful bridge connecting Chinese language, culture and traditions, especially for overseas Chinese families and anyone eager to learn about Chinese culture.

WuKong Chinese helps you explore the beauty of Chinese language and culture, making every Spring Festival more meaningful and memorable.

Wishing you a joyful Year of the Horse, filled with blessings, happiness and the warmth!

Roxy | WuKong Chinese Teacher

I have been deeply involved in the K12 education field for many years, acquiring rich professional knowledge and experience. My extensive understanding of Chinese culture and education enhances my ability to integrate diverse educational methodologies. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Melbourne, which bolsters my expertise and pedagogical skills. Passionate about fostering educational environments that inspire and empower, I am committed to creating inclusive learning experiences. My aim is to positively impact students’ lives and equip them with tools for success in a globalized world.