The stone of mountain Taishan is represented in as a mythological character, according to popular beliefs, who arose from a representative of the Han people. The existence of beliefs is manifested mainly in the carving of the words “Shigandang” or “Taishan-shigandang” on stone signs at intersections, bridges or buildings, which is reproduced with faith in ensuring peace. The character in question comes from the Taishan Mountain area of Shandong Province. Subsequently, beliefs in Taishanshigandang spread to other areas of residence of Chinese ethnic minorities, in particular in the provinces of Sichuan and Fujian, as well as more widely to some other countries of East and Southeast Asia. Belief in Shigandang had a profound impact on architectural style, culture and art, and contributed to ethnic exchanges. This article provides legends and customs of Taishan stone, analyzes folk beliefs and rituals in China.
traditional culture; Shigandang; Mount Taishan; China.