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Hanfu

Why Was the Hanfu Banned?

The ban on hanfu dress, traditional Han Chinese clothing, occurred during the Qing Dynasty in the 17th century. The Qing rulers were of Manchu ethnicity, and they imposed the ban as part of their efforts to suppress Han Chinese culture and promote their own.

The Manchu rulers enforced a policy called the “Queue Order” or “Queue Law,” which required Han Chinese men to adopt the Manchu hairstyle, which involved shaving the front of the head and wearing the hair in a long braid (known as a queue) at the back. This policy was a symbol of submission to Manchu rule.

Additionally, the Qing government restricted the wearing of hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, as they considered it a symbol of Han identity and cultural pride. By banning hanfu and promoting Manchu clothing styles, the Qing rulers aimed to assimilate the Han Chinese population into Manchu culture and suppress any expressions of Han nationalism or cultural independence.

The ban on hanfu and the Queue Order remained in effect throughout much of the Qing Dynasty’s rule, although there were periods of relaxation and enforcement varied in different regions and under different emperors. The ban was eventually lifted with the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912. Today, there is a revival of interest in modern hanfu, both within China and among the global Chinese diaspora, as a cultural heritage and a symbol of identity and pride.

Is It Ok for Non Chinese to Chinese Wear Hanfu?

Yes, it’s generally acceptable for non-Chinese individuals to wear hanfu clothing, the traditional clothing of the Han Chinese people. Tang dynasty hanfu has become appreciated not only within China but also by people from diverse cultural backgrounds around the world. Many non-Chinese individuals wear hanfu as a way to express their appreciation for Chinese culture, its history, and its aesthetic beauty.

However, it’s crucial for non-Chinese individuals to approach wearing chinese hanfu dress with respect and sensitivity. Here are some important points to consider:

  1. Respect Cultural Significance: Understand the cultural significance of traditional hanfu and its historical context within Chinese culture. Recognize that hanfu holds deep meaning for the Han Chinese people, and wearing it should be done with respect for its heritage.
  2. Avoid Appropriation: Be mindful not to appropriate or misrepresent Chinese culture when wearing hanfu. Appreciate it as a form of cultural expression and heritage, rather than using it for superficial or trendy purposes.
  3. Learn Proper Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with the proper way to wear hanfu and any associated customs or etiquette. This demonstrates respect for the tradition and its practitioners.
  4. Be Culturally Sensitive: Be aware of the cultural context in which you’re wearing hanfu and be sensitive to the feelings and perspectives of those who may have a deeper connection to its cultural significance.
  5. Promote Cultural Exchange: Wearing hanfu as a non-Chinese person can be an opportunity to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Embrace the opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and share your own cultural heritage in return.

Ultimately, the key is to approach wearing hanfu with sincerity, respect, and a genuine interest in cultural exchange. As long as it’s done in a thoughtful and considerate manner, wearing hanfu as a non-Chinese person can be a positive way to celebrate cultural diversity and heritage.