The Chinese government lifted its ban on Shakespeare, May 25, 1977, signalling the unofficial end to the Cultural Revolution.

Shakespeare, along with most western works were removed from public access and banned as corrupting influences. They were deemed “incompatible” with Chinese culture. 

Hamlet
From the 2014 450th Birth Anniversary of William Shakespeare set
Issued by Jersey Post
Designed by Chris Ede

For a couple of interesting reads on Shakespeare and China check out Mao to Macbeth: how Shakespeare is subverting China and Shakespeare and China | The Shakespeare blog.  Good insight into the Bard’s popularity in China.