Irish Culture

Ireland’s distinctive and unique culture is a central part of Irish life. Our rich cultural heritage is recognised and appreciated around the world. Cultural exchange is at the heart of Ireland’s relationship with China.

Ireland’s rich culture springs from our ancient heritage and the continuing creativity of our people.

Ireland’s traditional music and dance, as well as the Irish language, Irish literature and our unique national Gaelic games, are a central part of Irish life, practised and enjoyed by people of all ages.

Over the generations, as Irish people have travelled and lived around the world, they brought their culture with them and Irish culture, particularly our music and dance, has influenced and been influenced by other cultures of the world.

Cultural exchange is at the heart of Ireland’s relationship with China, promoting mutual understanding and people-to-people exchanges.

Irish dance is hugely popular in China, with classes and performances seen across the country in recent years. Irish literature is also strongly appreciated, including the work of the four Nobel Laureates for Literature who were born in Ireland.

Irish sports - the Gaelic games of football and hurling - are also played around the world, and there are Gaelic (GAA) clubs in a number of Chinese cities, including Shanghai and Suzhou, which attract players from China, Ireland and many other countries.

Cultural support

The Embassy and Consulates General of Ireland support Irish cultural initiatives throughout the year, including in music, dance, literature and the visual arts. We also work in partnership with Culture Ireland, which promotes Irish arts worldwide. For more information see News and Events.

Get involved in the Irish community

There is a vibrant Irish community in China, concentrated in the larger cities, which supports Irish people and makes connections with local friends. There are several community groups, and new members and volunteers are always welcome.

There are gaelic games clubs in seven Chinese cities – Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Dalian, Suzhou, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. The Asian County Board has information on those clubs that do not have websites.

The Irish Network China in Beijing, the St. Patrick’s Society in Hong Kong, and Le Chéile in Shanghai organise social and business events for the Irish communities in those cities.

There are Irish Chambers of Commerce in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Macau.

Engagement with the Irish diaspora

Over the years, as Irish people have lived and worked around the world, they have made invaluable contributions to all aspects of life in their new homes, in politics, arts, business and sports. They have also traditionally maintained links to Ireland and have actively promoted our culture, heritage and interests overseas.

Learn more about our engagement with Irish communities abroad: