What Is the Story Behind Chinese Fireworks?
“Huapao” is a general term that refers to both fireworks and firecrackers in Chinese tradition. Firecrackers—also known by various names such as baozhang, bianpao, or xiangpao—originated from nature itself. In the clan society of primitive China, the mythological figure Suiren is said to have invented fire by drilling wood or striking flint. During their use of fire for warmth, cooking, and hunting, people discovered that bamboo stalks would explode when burned, producing a crackling sound. These sharp bursts, believed to frighten off wild beasts and toxic mists, were the earliest forms of what we now call firecrackers.
In ancient beliefs, spirits and malevolent energies were thought to emerge during the transition between the old and new year. Fire, being the symbol of the deity Zhu Rong, was seen as a bringer of vitality and good fortune. The loud sounds from firecrackers were believed to scare away evil forces, while the rising smoke lifted the “yang energy” into the air. This made fireworks and firecrackers—infused with fire, light, sound, and color—powerful symbols of protection and prosperity.
So, every New Year, families across China would set off firecrackers to drive away evil spirits and misfortunes. Each explosive burst wasn’t just a tradition—it was a ritual to expel illness, welcome the new, and express hopeful wishes for the year ahead.
According to the Industrial Gazetteer of China: Hunan Edition (1935), Hunan Province is recognized as the birthplace of firecrackers. The text states:
“The manufacture of firecrackers in Hunan began during the Tang dynasty and flourished in the Song dynasty, originating from Liuyang.”
The same year, the Collected Works: Firecrackers of Hunan, published by the Hunan Provincial Economic Research Institute, also confirmed:
“Firecrackers are a specialty of Hunan, especially those produced in Liuyang, which enjoy historical prestige.”
Through industry consensus and historical studies, it is widely agreed that the invention of fireworks can be traced back to Li Tian of the Tang dynasty, aligning with the aforementioned records.
Legend has it that Li Tian, a native of Liuyang during the Tang dynasty, was the inventor of firecrackers. Amid years of disasters and outbreaks of plague, he filled small bamboo tubes with saltpeter (potassium nitrate) and ignited them to disperse miasma and reduce illness. His innovation quickly spread. To honor him, generations in Liuyang revered Li Tian as the ancestral master of fireworks. In the Song dynasty, a temple dedicated to him stood in Tianjia Lane, Liuyang Town, where fireworks craftsmen would gather every April 18 for a solemn ceremony.
It is said that Li Tian struggled to create more powerful firecrackers without knowledge of gunpowder. His uncle Tian Zhong told him that the great physician Sun Simiao had arrived in Liuyang two years prior and was living in seclusion on Shitou Mountain, east of the county. Sun Simiao, well-known for both his medical expertise and his work in alchemy, was rumored to have advanced knowledge of gunpowder and metallurgy.
Determined to learn, Li Tian and his uncle journeyed across Fenglinpu, Niushiling, and Hehuatang, crossing rivers and hills until they reached the secluded mountain residence of Sun Simiao.
Sun received them graciously but did not reveal his intentions at once. Li Tian earnestly pleaded:
“I have long admired your great wisdom. I’ve heard that you invented gunpowder while refining elixirs—an achievement beyond measure. I beg you to teach me its secrets.”
After assessing Li Tian’s sincerity and determination, Sun finally agreed:
“I will take you as my disciple. But be warned, studying gunpowder will take 399 days, requiring endurance and great caution. It is dangerous work.”
Sun himself had suffered injuries in past experiments, even losing a young assistant in an explosion. Nevertheless, his unwavering dedication to research left a deep impression on Li Tian, who immediately bowed in reverence. Tian Zhong also paid his respects.
This legendary bond between master and student illustrates the roots of Chinese fireworks. It highlights Li Tian’s commitment and confirms that his invention was deeply influenced by Sun Simiao’s alchemical studies.
In later years, the mountain where Sun had lived came to be known as “Sun Yin Mountain.” During the Song dynasty, a temple was expanded on this site in honor of the Medicine King, Sun Simiao. A bluestone tablet was erected at the entrance, commemorating his medicinal and alchemical practices. Today, the area still holds historical landmarks such as the Flying Ascension Altar, Herbal Spring Stone, and Alchemy Platform, along with the Medicine King Temple, Washing Bridge, and Medicine King Well. In recent years, the Liuyang municipal government developed this area into Simiao Park, adding the Sun Yin Pavilion and a bronze statue of the Medicine King.
Next to the Medicine King Temple once stood the Ancestor Master Temple, dedicated to Li Tian. Though weathered by time, the two temples—one for Sun Simiao, the other for Li Tian—symbolized their inseparable contributions to the art of fireworks.
Today, Liuyang fireworks, known for their dazzling beauty and precise craftsmanship, continue to tell stories about time, light, and fleeting eternity. As they rise, bloom, and disappear in the sky, they leave behind a deep emotional resonance. In that moment of brilliance, the world seems still. Troubles vanish in the glow, replaced by dreams of a better life.
That night, illuminated by the glow of China fireworks, becomes unforgettable—etched in our memories as a brilliant chapter of celebration and wonder.
About PyroNexa – A Trusted China Fireworks Manufacturer
At the heart of the global fireworks industry, PyroNexa proudly stands as a leading China fireworks manufacturer rooted in Liuyang—the birthplace of fireworks. Combining centuries-old craftsmanship with modern innovation, PyroNexa specializes in creating safe, vibrant, and awe-inspiring pyrotechnics for celebrations around the world. Whether you’re looking for grand aerial displays or precision-stage effects, PyroNexa delivers fireworks that honor tradition while lighting up the future. Let the story of Chinese fireworks continue—with PyroNexa.