Houyi (see further on the story Houyi She Ri), seeking perpetual youth, obtained the elixir of immortality from Queen Mother of the West who lived in the Kunlun Mountains. Returning to his palace, he confided the good news to his wife Chang'e, a lady graceful of carriage and unparalleled of beauty, very much loved by her husband.

　　One day, when Houyi was out, Chang'e secretly swallowed the potion in the hope that she would become immortal. The result was quite unexpected: she felt herself becoming light, so light that she flew up in spite of herself, drifting and floating in the air,

　　until she reached the palace of the moon. She is regarded by later generations as the goddess of the moon. This beautiful story has always been liked by the Chinese and provides a favourite allusion for poets and writers.