East Asian paintings are distinguished not only by their visual content but also by their meticulously designed physical formats. These structures—whether rolled, hung, or folded—serve as embodiments of cultural philosophy, ritual practice, and aesthetic principles. This guide provides a systematic examination of painting formats from China, Japan, and Korea, offering foundational knowledge for identifying their unique characteristics and understanding their historical and sociocultural significance.

Lunar New Year is celebrated across East Asia with deep cultural and artistic significance. Ink paintings, known for their graceful brushstrokes and symbolic depth, often serve as a canvas to reflect the themes of renewal, prosperity, and harmony associated with the holiday. While these traditions vary across China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries, shared motifs and themes unite them in honoring nature, resilience, and cultural values.

East Asian art encompasses the rich artistic traditions of China, Japan, Korea, and to some extent, their influence on neighboring regions like Vietnam and Mongolia. It reflects a shared cultural heritage shaped by philosophical, religious, and historical connections, yet each country has developed distinct styles, techniques, and themes.