📖 Meaning
Literally referring to jade flutes and gold pipes, this idiom denotes ornately decorated wind instruments. It is used metaphorically to evoke scenes of luxurious banquets, elegant music, and extravagant entertainment.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase appears in Tang dynasty poet Li Bai's poem 'River Journey,' where he describes a magnolia oar and sandalwood boat with jade flutes and gold pipes played at both ends. Song dynasty poet Zhou Bangyan also referenced it in his ci poem 'Mount Pass,' lamenting that such fine instruments were not shared with beautiful companions. The term has since become a poetic shorthand for lavish musical revelry.
💡 Example Usage
凤城春好，玉箫金管姿游盘。
In the fair city, spring is lovely, and jade flutes and gold pipes accompany leisurely outings.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 玉箫金管
- Pinyin: yù xiāo jīn guǎn
- Literal Translation: jade, flute, gold, pipe
- Category: Lifestyle
- Characters: 4