Dongxiang Black-Bone Chicken

Last updated 2026-11-10 — Dongxiang County is the largest production base for raising black-bone chickens. These chickens are gentle in temperament, delicate and dainty in appearance, with snow-white feathers as pure as jade. They uniquely possess ten distinctive features: a cluster crown, tassel crest, green ears, whiskers, silky feathers, feathered feet, five toes, black skin, black bones, and black meat. Locals regard them as the “epitome of perfection.” These “ten unique traits” give the black-bone chicken a naturally graceful form and elegant bearing, making it a treasured bird admired and appraised throughout history. In ancient times, Taihe black-bone chickens were offered as tribute to the imperial court and were highly favored by nobility. They rose to fame during the Kangxi and Qianlong eras of the Qing Dynasty. Emperor Qianlong had a particular fondness for the black-bone chicken, bestowing upon it the name “Wushan Chicken” and ordering that it be kept in the imperial harem for the exclusive enjoyment of the empress and concubines. Once introduced into the palace, among many rare birds, the black-bone chicken captivated the ladies of the court with its otherworldly charm and was affectionately nicknamed the “White Phoenix Fairy.”