Chinese woodblock printing is a traditional printing technique that originated in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It involves carving an image or text onto a wooden block, inking the surface, and then pressing it onto paper or fabric to create a print. This method allowed for the mass production of texts and images, making literature and art more accessible to the public. The technique played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism and other cultural ideas throughout Asia. By the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), woodblock printing had become a popular method for producing books, illustrations, and even currency, influencing printing practices worldwide.