The act of solving lantern riddles dates back more than 2,000 years, chiefly as a pleasure for the educated classes. Wang Qian, a riddle master, said the hobby reached its peak in the Song Dynasty (960-1279) when people from all walks of life took part, mostly during Lantern Festival.

Riddles were glued to lanterns that were considered the core element of the festival, which marks the 15th day of the first month of the lunar new year and the end of the Chinese new year period.

Riddle solving remained popular after the founding of New China in 1949. Many cities established their own riddle associations, with parties and contests held in parks, temple fairs and other public venues.

When United States President Richard Nixon made his well-known visit to China in 1972, he presented Guo Moruo, a notable Chinese writer and poet at the time, with his own riddle: "What are 12 items you can give to 1.2 billion Chinese, with everyone getting one?" Guo immediately answered they were the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac.

However, with new trends stealing the attention of today's youth, the number of riddle fans is dropping nationwide. In Beijing, the long-standing Beijing Riddle Fans' Association has shrunk to 30 members, with an average age of 60.

"We are really looking forward to getting some new blood," said Zhao Chunlin, head of the association.

China Daily

(China Daily 02/17/2011 page28)