Fairy(仙娥):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: xiān é，Written as:

In Chinese mythology, the maidservants of the Celestial Realm are known as Fairies. A Fairy is a depiction of a celestial maiden within the Celestial Realm, serving as the handmaidens to the Immortals and carrying out various tasks within Heaven. Fairies are portrayed as women of beautiful appearance and graceful demeanor, possessing extraordinary abilities and magical powers. They play a significant role in the Celestial Realm and are an important presence in Heaven.
The term Fairy can also refer to traditional Chinese cultural tales about celestial maidens or the Moon Goddess Chang’e. Chang’e is a famous Moon Goddess in Chinese mythology, widely known for her story, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The distinction between a Fairy and Chang’e lies in their definitions and backgrounds. Fairy is a general term referring to celestial maidens in mythology, whereas Chang’e is a specific mythological character. Chang’e is an ancient mythological figure who ascended to the Moon Palace after stealing the elixir of immortality. Her story was first recorded in the “Huainanzi” during the Western Han Dynasty and her identity and background were clarified during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Fairy, on the other hand, is a broader term generally referring to celestial maidens without a specific background story.
Fairies and Chang’e differ in their cultural backgrounds and historical records. Chang’e’s story is detailed in ancient Chinese mythology and has a rich cultural background. Her image has evolved historically, from initially being depicted with a serpent’s body to later being celebrated as a peerless beauty. Fairies, however, are more generically used to denote celestial maidens without specific cultural backgrounds or historical records.
Chang’e holds a distinct symbolic significance in culture. The story of Chang’e flying to the moon is not just a myth but also reflects ancient people’s worship of the moon and their pursuit of immortality. Her image is widely portrayed in literary works, such as in poems by Bai Juyi of the Tang Dynasty, who used Chang’e to praise the beauty of a neighboring young girl.