name cards

Ancient Origins of New Year Greeting Cards Traced to Han Dynasty China

The tradition of sending New Year greeting cards originated in China during the Han dynasty (206 BC-AD 220), when people crafted ming ci—name cards on bamboo or wood sticks bearing their name, age, hometown, official position, and personal statement. The number of cards received symbolized social status, with some placing red bags outside their gates to receive them as receiving blessings. The term ming ci remains in use for name cards in Japan today.