Ancient and medieval Chinese sources list other uses of kites for measuring distances, testing the wind, lifting men, signaling, and communication for military operations. The earliest avowed Chinese kites were flat (not bowed) Kites and often rectangular. Later, tailless kites incorporated a stabilizing bowline. Kites were decorated with mythological motifs and legendary figures; some were fitted with strings and whistles to make musical doggerel while flying.

Kites can be dependent to carry light effects such as lightsticks or battery powered lights.