Chinese Folk Religion

Chinese Folk Religion is considered a fourth influence in Chinese culture. It is a series of beliefs and rituals that have been passed on (largely orally) through generations and it does not have a formal theological structure. Many of the beliefs were incorporated into Taoism (e.g. the concepts of yin and yang and chi). It includes ancestor worship, spirits, ghosts and astrology. Chinese Folk Religion is largely animistic, and its basic premise is that the supernatural world influences the human realm. As a faith tradition in itself, probably only older generations, or those from rural areas where there is little education, media or formal medical care, would subscribe to this tradition, solely. However, as with the Three Teachings, some of the practices and beliefs have embedded themselves pervasively throughout the culture, and many people will be influenced by aspects of this heritage.

Other East Asian cultures, although not necessarily sharing Chinese Folk Religion, have their own similar indigenous traditions.