Ping Shu Chang (Story Telling House)

Text & Photo By Chengzi

With the prevalence of modern mass media, as more and more people live their lives in the fast lane, Ping Shu (a form of story telling based on classic novels), a traditional Chinese art, is facing extinction due to its slow pace and dwindling popularity with the younger generation.

The traditional Ping Shu Chang is a simple room with a storyteller, a table, a paper fan, a Jing Tang Mu (a piece of wood that the storyteller uses to strike the table as a signal of the beginning, climax and end of the story), and several tables and benches to serve the customers. Ping Shu lovers enjoy the easygoing and leisurely atmosphere while tea and snacks are served.