The Jade Chapters dictionary states: "Hualiu is a superior steed." A pure red steed of this kind is a Hua. The…
The Jade Chapters dictionary states: "Hualiu is a superior steed." A pure red steed of this kind is a Hua. The original Hualiu was one of the legendary Eight Steeds of King Mu of Zhou, and its name later came to describe all fine horses of this pure red color, which are considered the most prized among the Southwestern Ponies.
Legends from the Huayang Chorography tell of a divine steed that once rose from Dianchi Lake. Its offspring, known as "Dianchi Foals," were said to travel five hundred li a day. Later, during the Tang and Song dynasties, texts like the Book of the Man and the New Book of Tang praised the swift, high-tailed horses bred on the lush grasslands of the region, famed as "Yuetan Steeds." These Dian Horses, named for their origin near Dianchi Lake, are also known as Southwestern Ponies.
Small in stature, they have fine limbs, a short neck, a broad forehead, and firm, compact hooves. Prized for their endurance, they are suited for riding, pulling, and carrying loads, making them the most common breed in the southwest.