---
node: garment_changshan
type: garment
slug: changshan
title: "Changshan"
lead: "The changshan is the men's long gown of late imperial and early modern China, a straight robe reaching the ankles, usually worn with a magua jacket. It is the male counterpart to the woman's qipao."
published: 2026-08-09
updated: 2026-08-09
image_file: changshan.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Man%27s_Robe_(China),_1796%E2%80%931820_(CH_18433877).jpg"
image_author: "Unknown artist"
image_license: "Public domain"
---

## Overview

A changshan (also changpao) is a long, side-fastening robe with a stand collar, cut straight and reaching to the ankle. Under the Qing it followed Manchu banner dress, and it served as the standard formal and scholarly wear for men.

## How it is worn

It closes to the right with knotted buttons and is worn over trousers, often with a short magua jacket on top for formality; a scholar's or gentleman's changshan was plain, in dark silk or cotton. Together the long gown and short jacket (changshan magua) made the classic men's ensemble.

## History

The changshan became universal men's dress under the Qing and carried into the Republic, when it stood beside the new Western suit and the Zhongshan tunic as respectable attire. It survives today as formal and ceremonial wear and on the stage.