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Nowadays, the Mamian skirt is increasingly integrated into our sight and life. Under such a trend, many people are eager to own their desired Mamian skirt. Let's follow Hanfu Shidai and take a look at the details to consider during the process of selecting and styling a Mamian skirt. 1 - Selection Stage Step 1: Size Firstly, choosing the right size that fits the body curves is crucial for the perfect outfit. Like a suit, a Mamian skirt can be chosen according to a size chart or customized. Whether you are selecting from a size chart or opting for customization, the main standards to measure are height, waist, and hips. These measurements will influence the choice of skirt length, waist length, and sweep circumference. If we choose to shop online, sellers often provide a size chart for customers to make their selection. By comparing the chart, you can choose according to your size information. If opting for customization, you can first provide the seller with your waist, hip, and height information for reference. Then, based on your needs, negotiate with the tailor to decide the width of the skirt door, the length of the skirt waist, and the skirt length. Generally,…

The Mamian skirt pattern, as a traditional cultural element, is leading a new trend in the fashion world today. Its unique design and patterns showcase the elegance and temperament of ancient Han women, while also incorporating elements of modern fashion, making it a highly regarded focus in the fashion industry. Let us explore the structure, content, and trends of the Mamian skirt pattern in the fashion world. 01 Diversified Material Innovations In modern fashion, designers have applied the Mamian skirt pattern to various materials such as silk, cotton, chiffon, and blended fabrics. The Mamian skirt exhibits diverse styles and characteristics through material innovation, combining vintage flavor with a contemporary sense of fashion. This diversified material innovation injects new vitality and fashion trends into the Mamian skirt pattern.   02 Innovative Styles and Diversification Modern designers have retained the traditional Mamian skirt's basic structure and introduced many innovations. For example, the Mamian skirt can be paired with other garments such as t-shirts, shirts, or jackets to create a unique fashion style. Additionally, the Mamian skirt pattern can be incorporated into accessories such as handbags, shoes, or jewelry, adding unique highlights to the overall look.   03 Perfect Fusion of Tradition and…

Recently, the new cdrama "Love Me, Love My Voice" starring Zhou Ye has been gaining popularity. Directed by Sha Weiqi, the drama features Tan Jianci and Zhou Ye as the lead actors, with Hou Wenyuan, Yang Zizi, Cao Enqi, and Chen Haolan in supporting roles. It premiered on November 30, 2023. Gu Sheng (played by Zhou Ye), a talented composer and university student, continues to strive for success in her music career. Her biggest wish is to collaborate with the renowned voice actor Mo Qingcheng (played by Tan Jianci). Unexpectedly, a chance encounter brings them together when Mo Qingcheng recites a recipe to her, stirring Gu Sheng's heartstrings. Ten years ago, Mo Qingcheng co-founded the Wanmei Dubbing Club with his friends, dedicating himself passionately to voice acting. He is also a cardiac surgeon, devoted to saving lives. Gu Sheng is invited to participate in a promotional event for her best friend Geng Xiaoxing's (played by Yang Zizi) company, which coincides with the tenth anniversary celebration of the Perfect Dubbing Club, bringing her closer to Mo Qingcheng once again. As Gu Sheng gradually gains fame, she faces doubts about her talent, but she remains true to herself, focusing on her work…

In recent days, the historical drama Duhuanian (度华年), starring Zhao Jinmai and Zhang Linghe, has captured the attention of viewers. As the follow-up to the popular series "Moyu Between the Clouds," "Duhuanian" may not have achieved explosive viewership initially, but its narrative depth and character dynamics have gradually garnered increasing popularity. Adapted from the novel "Princess Chang," written by Moshibai, "Duhuanian" unfolds the story of Princess Li Rong, a regent of the Da Xia Dynasty, and Pei Wenxuan, the chief minister of the court. Their tale spans two lifetimes, marked by enmity and unresolved emotions. Li Rong (played by Zhao Jinmai) and Pei Wenxuan (played by Zhang Linghe) are portrayed as erstwhile adversaries who meet again after reincarnation, presenting a unique twist of youthful appearances with matured souls. This reincarnated love story offers viewers a fresh perspective, blending familiarity of long-term relationships with the novelty of new beginnings. Director Gao Yijun emphasizes the complexity of Li Rong, depicting her as independent, intelligent, and courageous, contrasted with Pei Wenxuan's outward arrogance and inner depth. Their second chance at life not only emphasizes seizing the moment but also cherishing the people around them. "Duhuanian" and its predecessor "Moyu Between the Clouds" inevitably…

In recent years, the production of historical dramas has increasingly emphasized the organic fusion of traditional cultural elements with storytelling, showcasing a more sophisticated and heartfelt approach to presenting traditional culture. From my perspective, the application of traditional cultural elements in historical dramas can be categorized into three levels: external, superficial, and internal depths.   Authentic Historical Restoration Historical dramas have shown a growing emphasis on meticulous attention to costume and set design, striving for a faithful reconstruction of historical accuracy. Some productions adhere strictly to scholarly research, almost replicating characters' attire and appearances directly from ancient texts and paintings. This approach allows viewers to experience the true aesthetic charm of traditional Chinese clothing. For example, in "Serenade of Peaceful Joy," the portrayal of Emperor Renzong of Song (played by Wang Kai) closely mirrors historical portraits, achieving a striking visual realism akin to a 3D print from ancient paintings. Beyond costumes, headwear serves as a crucial element of visual aesthetics for female characters. Instead of exaggerated hairstyles, integrating traditional intangible cultural heritage elements into hair accessories creates a sophisticated and refreshing visual appeal. For example, in "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace," the use of Tian-tsui ornaments on the hair…

In the realm of television drama, the wait for the second season of "Longing Heart" (长相思) has been a topic of anticipation among fans for nearly a year, following the resounding success of its first season. Recently, the official Weibo account of "Longing Heart" announced that Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on July 8th, featuring the original cast. According to a report from Cover News on July 3rd, the series will exclusively debut on Jiangsu TV on the same date. Let's rewind to July 2023 when the entire 39 episodes of "Longing Heart" Season 1 premiered on online streaming platforms. Shortly after its release, the series gained immense popularity, surpassing 33,000 in heat value due to its unique storyline, distinct characters, and high production standards. It became one of the hottest dramas of the summer of 2023. With the announcement of the premiere date for Season 2, glimpses of its standout scenes and climactic moments have already heightened audience expectations through teaser trailers. Particularly poignant scenes, evident from the trailers, showcase the emotional entanglements of the characters. Jiangsu TV has further indicated that they will innovate by airing both seasons consecutively: re-airing Season 1 during daytime slots and premiering…

Vocab of Wrapped Flower Wrapped flower - 缠花 (chán huā) - a name used to called artificially made flower using the techniques of wrapping colored silk thread around cut-out pieces and combining each parts together to make flowers, animals, insects, etc. Spring Flower - 春仔花 (chūn zǐ huā) or 春花 (chūn huā). Used in this situation would mean various types of flower combined into a small batch each flower symbolize for different meanings in China. In this case, the flower would be a wrapped flower rather than a real flower.   History of Wrapped Flower Through ancient China, people held a profound appreciation for nature, which manifested in their beliefs of deities who governed natural forces to their interest in making poetry, music, and artworks that represented the beauty they saw. One remarkable custom in ancient China were the flower hair-pinning practice known as "簪花的习俗 (zān huā de xí sú)," where both men and women adorned their hair or hat with flowers, either fresh or artificially made. Talking about flowers, there are many artificial flower craftsmen that have passed down for centuries, including "ronghua" and "wrapped flower." The art of wrapped flowers originated during the Ming Dynasty and arrived in the…

From the enchanting landscapes of ancient China to the modern fashion runways, the timeless elegance of Hanfu garments continues to captivate hearts across the globe. As we embrace the warmth of summer, it's time to dive into the fascinating world of fabrics that effortlessly blend tradition with comfort, bringing forth a refreshing sartorial experience. Still bothered by what fabric is cooler for hanfu? This article will introduce you some common fabrics for summer hanfu.   01 Preliminary introduction to modern clothing fabrics Modern clothing materials can generally be categorized into three types: natural fibers, artificial fibers, and synthetic fibers. Artificial and synthetic fibers can also be combined to form chemical fiber. Natural fiber mainly refers to animal or plant-based fibers such as cotton, linen, wool and silk. Cotton has excellent moisture absorption properties while being breathable and warm but is prone to wrinkling; linen fiber doesn't curl easily but wrinkles easily with a rougher texture. Artificial fiber (also known as regenerated fiber) is made from natural polymers. According to the shape and usage of artificial fibers, they are divided into three categories: rayon, viscose staple fiber, and artificial wool. Important varieties include viscose fibre, acetate fibre, cuprammonium rayon fibre etc.…

Vocabulary Moon-shaped fan; 团扇 (tuánshàn). Also called 宫扇(gōng shàn), 纨扇 (wánshàn), 合欢扇 (héhuān shàn), a fan that is made from silks, embroideries, golds, beads, etc. later on into the period.  Barrier fan; 障扇 (zhàng shàn) - one of the earliest version of fan from ancestors. Made with pheasant’s feathers and has a long handle. Also known as 长扇 (Chǎng shàn)、掌扇 (zhǎng shàn)、五明扇 (wǔ míng shàn). It is under the category of moon-shaped fan (团扇). Imperial carriage; 辇 (niǎn). Also known as chariot. This is the earlier versions of traveling vehicles primarily used by prestigious people for ceremonial processes, imperial tours, and any other formal occasions. The usage of this is closely related to imperial court instead of public, such as for emperor, queen’s mother, empress, and imperial concubines. These types of carriage are still man-drawn, and are made of simple designs with either a cushion or a chair for the individual seating on it.   History of Tuanshan The moon-shaped fan, also known as 团扇 (tuánshàn), is a traditional handicraft tool of the Han people from ancient China. It consists of four main components: the fan's frame, handles (usually short in length), the fan's surface (made of semi-transparent or opaque…

2021 can be considered a prolific year for Chinese hanfu costume related programs. In addition to the familiar Henan TV, which presents a wonderful tour series on the occasion of Chinese traditional festivals, there are also a number of hanfu programs based on Chinese hanfu, traditional dance, and traditional sports events. This article sorts out these programs for you and will continue to update the latest ones. In chronological order by program broadcast.   2022 24节气系列 · 24 Solar Terms   2022 端午奇妙游 · The Marvelous Tour of the Dragon Boat Festival Broadcast time: June 2, 2022 Type: Gala Duration: 56 minutes https://youtu.be/-qtMsHX86x8 2022 The Marvelous Tour of the Dragon Boat Festival is a Duanwu Festival program produced by Henan TV and co-produced by Youku. The program tells the multiple origins of the Dragon Boat Festival by expanding from the commemorating Qu Yuan to knowledge about astrology and solar terms.   2022 元宵奇妙游 · Lantern Festival Wonderful Tour Broadcast time: February 14, 2022 Type: Gala Duration: 52 minutes https://youtu.be/nnVdmtrbNLo "Lantern Festival Wonderful Tour" is a series of "Chinese Festivals" produced by Henan TV and co-produced by Youku. Through 3 chapters, the audience can feel the hope of "Yuan", the romance of…

The history of Chinese women's make-up is very long. After the rotation of dynasties, the traditional Chinese makeup has changed with the development of the times, reflecting the changes in customs and thoughts in each era. We will prepare a series of articles to introduce traditional Chinese makeup.   Ancient traditional Chinese makeup Throughout the ages, women have different ways and methods to make themselves more beautiful. Compared with the modern, ancient women are more conservative and implicit, but they also have their own set of "secret weapons". As early as in the cultural relics unearthed in the Warring States period, it can be seen from them that at that time, women had the habit of thrushing and use rouge. That is to say, more than 2000 years ago in China, cosmetics had appeared. Of course, ancient China was an agricultural society, always in a state of self-sufficiency, and cosmetics were no exception. At that time, cosmetics were mainly made of pure natural plant and animal oils, and some natural spices were added. The general production process includes boiling, fermentation, filtration, etc. compared with the modern cosmetics production process, it is still relatively simple. Therefore, compared with modern women, ancient…

Ming Dynasty Hanfu clothing refers to the clothing system in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). At the beginning of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, inherited the costume style of Zhou, Han, Tang, and Song Dynasties and re-established the costume system in order to rebuild the national pride and etiquette and remove the influence of ethnic minorities. In the middle and later period of the Ming Dynasty, there were some new styles, such as stand collar, and a large number of buttons were used in the conspicuous part of a garment. It was gradually banned during the Qing Dynasty, but there are still a few styles and features that have been handed down to this day.   The characteristics of Hanfu in the Ming dynasty In the Ming Dynasty, a series of measures were taken to develop production, which made the industry and commerce develop continuously, and the production technology of each industry has improved. After the rise of the citizen class, the aesthetic interest has become the aesthetic orientation of the general dress in the Ming Dynasty. "Secularization" of the aesthetic and cultural sources and a relatively general, casual, and loose historical and cultural environment.…

The 2024 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and Global Governance Summit, held in Shanghai from July 4th to 6th, gathered scientists and entrepreneurs from around the world. Together, they envisioned a future where AI advancements foster collaborative governance and innovation across industries. The rapid evolution of AI technologies showcased at the 2024 World Artificial Intelligence Conference highlights not only their technological prowess but also their profound implications for global governance and societal integration. As AI continues to advance, its transformative potential extends beyond industrial applications to encompass broader societal benefits and ethical considerations. Forging New Frontiers in AI The conference showcased remarkable advancements, exemplified by the debut of innovative technologies like the global landmark steel factory from CITIC Tai Fung Special Steel. Here, intricate displays revealed the transparency of blast furnace operations, illustrating efficiency gains such as a 56.6% increase in R&D effectiveness and a 47.3% decrease in defect rates. These advancements underscore how AI-powered insights are revolutionizing industries, enhancing precision and productivity on a global scale. "Two global landmark factories have already been established by CITIC," remarked Zhang Wenwu, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and General Manager of CITIC Group. These AI applications span across 29 manufacturing bases worldwide,…

With the resurgence of traditional Chinese culture, a new wave of nostalgia has swept over the nation, captivating the hearts of many. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the growing popularity of "national style" toys. On platforms like Xiaohongshu, topics related to "domestic building blocks" have garnered nearly 700 million views, with many adults becoming ardent fans. These toys are not just playthings; they serve as a bridge between traditional culture and modern life. In Quanzhou, iconic landmarks like Kaiyuan Temple and the Bell Tower have been recreated in the form of national style building blocks, alongside traditional toys like the Dragon's Nine Sons figurines and hairpin dolls. For generations who grew up playing with simple toys made from natural materials, these new national style toys offer a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Childhood Memories: Pure and Simple Joy The charm of childhood toys lies in their simplicity and the joy they brought. Su, an 80s-born woman, recalls playing with marbles, skipping rope, and collecting stones, all of which filled her childhood with unique memories. These toys, crafted from readily available materials like stones, rubber bands, and bamboo sticks, were products of an era of material scarcity. Yet, they provided endless…

In the vast expanse of Inner Mongolia's Siziwang Banner, amidst the serene landscapes of Amugulang Grassland, a historic moment unfolded on June 25th at 2 PM. It was here that Hu Hao, the chief designer of the Chang'e 6 mission, welcomed back the long-awaited "Moon Maiden (六姑娘)" after 53 days of anticipation—the Chang'e 6 probe, marking humanity's first-ever lunar far-side sample return. Unveiling the Triumph Positioning, searching, checking status—the returner functioned flawlessly, achieving a resounding success for the mission, finally putting Hu Hao's anxieties to rest. Even as Chang'e 6 faithfully brought back nearly 4 kilograms of lunar soil from the far side of the moon, Hu Hao remains tirelessly occupied these days: escorting the returner back to Beijing, overseeing the unpacking of the lunar samples, planning future orbital experiments, and witnessing the initiation of scientific research on the lunar samples. Amidst his busy schedule, he shared with Xinhua News Agency reporters for the first time the untold stories of Chang'e 6. Technological Feats Collecting 1935.3 grams of the first human lunar far-side sample, and achieving a more precise re-entry than Chang'e 5, international payloads also harvested a scientific data "bonanza". Discussing the accomplishments of the "Moon Maiden," Hu Hao's…

In the heart of Cao County, a quiet revolution has been underway, transforming the fortunes of its youth through an unexpected avenue: Hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing. For decades, opportunities for young locals to break into wealth creation were limited without powerful connections or resorting to less savory means. However, against the odds, Qin Shuo carved out his path to success. From Factory Floors to Fashion In 2016, Qin Shuo, then 18, abandoned his studies and ventured to Beijing as a factory worker crafting paper boxes. The monotony pushed him to seek more fulfilling work, leading to a stint as a car salesman. Despite trying his hand at various roles, including selling Chery and Honda cars, he found himself dissatisfied and struggling financially. Returning home to Cao County in 2019, Qin Shuo stumbled upon an opportunity in Hanfu. Initially a sideline to earn extra cash, Qin Shuo quickly recognized the burgeoning demand for original Hanfu designs. His first attempt, albeit with a steep learning curve and initial setbacks, eventually paved the way for his entrepreneurial breakthrough. Seizing the Hanfu Market Qin Shuo’s early forays into selling Hanfu were modest, starting with a few designs sourced from friends. His persistence paid off…

In recent years, the popularity of Hanfu has surged across China, particularly evident during events like the Jinhu Hanfu Cultural Consumption Season. People flock to ancient capitals like Hedou, clad in exquisite Hanfu attire, to indulge in traditional foods, capture memorable moments against iconic landmarks, and eagerly share their experiences on social media. Hanfu has become more than just a garment; it's a cultural statement, often eclipsing even the weather in conversations. The Evolution of Hanfu: From Tradition to Trend Hanfu, by definition, refers to traditional Chinese attire that dates back to ancient times. As Professor Huang Qiang, a renowned expert in clothing history, explains, references to Hanfu can be found in ancient texts dating back to the times of the Yellow Emperor and Yao-Shun era. Each dynasty in Chinese history contributed unique styles to Hanfu, reflecting the era's aesthetic and social norms. From the deep-collared "Shenyi" of the Qin and Han dynasties, which symbolized modesty and hierarchy, to the flowing "Baoyi" robes of the Wei and Jin periods, which exuded elegance and freedom, Hanfu evolved alongside China's rich history. The Tang dynasty introduced a color-coded system where the hue of one's attire indicated social status—a system vividly captured in…

Wang Sibo (Roywang), the first person in Chinese light painting art and the first Chinese advisor of the World Light Painting Alliance, is adept at creating light paintings in a Chinese style. In 2018, he completed the painting "Dragon Dance in Beijing" in just 7 minutes, where a golden dragon illuminated Wangfujing Street, breaking the world record. He integrates traditional Chinese aesthetics into modern art, using light as ink and night as canvas, combining ancient cultural elements with contemporary art forms to create stunning works. He even brings mythical creatures from the "Classic of Mountains and Seas" to life on the streets, becoming well-known to the public. 01 Painting everything with light Light painting, in simple terms, is the process of capturing the movement of light sources in a dark environment through long exposure, resulting in various abstract images. For example, if one wants to paint a dragon, they can use a light source to "draw" the dragon in front of the camera, and the camera will record the trajectory of the light source, creating a photo that shows a shining dragon. For creators of light painting photography, it does not require highly advanced painting skills. With a basic foundation…

Last Friday 3/17 I was invited to a local Chinese school to give a small talk on hanfu! The aim was to share hanfu culture with more people here and to present an example to the kids of what doors can be opened to you by maintaining language skills. A little background—I myself attended this once-a-week school from kindergarten up until 6th grade, upon which I pulled out of the school to invite the Chinese teacher that taught me in 6th grade to tutor me at home privately. She was a great tutor and a key part of inspiring my interest in ancient Chinese culture through poetry, history, and more, keeping me engaged while analyzing Tang Dynasty shi and Song Dynasty ci. As I got busy, I stopped the tutoring when I was in 10th grade—and I was introduced to the concept of hanfu not even a few months later! I’ve kept up communication with this teacher for a while (whose name I won’t disclose for privacy reasons) and visited her in Taiwan throughout the years. This year she came back to teach at the local chinese school and invited me to give a talk on hanfu there. For the…

I made my first real Hanfu based on patterns from this website. First outing at the beach, with dragons and all. Here is an article with much details on my sewing journey.

Wearing armor, riding a horse, holding a traditional weapon, fighting on the battlefield. Such a scene may have appeared in the dreams of many people when they were young. But there is a person who turned the traditional Chinese armor in the dream into reality, he is the first person to restore the ancient armor of the Tang and Song dynasties, Wen Chenhua (温陈华). He has highly restoration the armor of the Song dynasty, which has been lost in China for 700 years, after 6 years. He founded the Lian Kai Tang (炼铠堂), and with his own strength, he promoted the obscure armor restoration craft, and let Chinese armor on the world-class combat stage.   #01 The first person in traditional Chinese armor restoration There are only about 1000 armor restorers in China, 90% of them are Wen Chenhua's students, and for 40 years, he has been restoring Jiazhou (甲胄, traditional Chinese armor) to the extreme. On Wen Chenhua's social platforms profile, there is only a simple sentence "Top Chinese Jiazhou maker" as an introduction. However, he has shared a lot of armor design drawings and finished armor photos, all revealing his deep love for Jiazhou. Traditional armor restoration and…

In the late summer of 2022, "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty," produced by Guo Jingyu, written by Wei Fenghua, and directed by Bai Shan with Yang Xuwen and Yang Zhigang in leading roles, burst onto the scene as a dark horse, paving a new path in historical dramas labeled as "Zhiguai" (tales of the strange). Since then, updates about its sequel have continuously captivated fans. From the promise of the original team's return to the announcement of the sequel's narrative direction towards the west in "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West", each new development has sparked renewed interest and speculation among fans revisiting the original series, anticipating the plot of the new installment. Prior to the premiere of "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West," nearly 6 million members had already pre-booked their spots, eagerly awaiting updates. The first six episodes, featuring the unit "The Demonic Transformation," received the most feedback in the barrage comments: "still the same." It maintains the familiar grandeur of Tang aesthetics and the eerie intrigue of zhiguai, coupled with meticulous attention to folk customs that resonate deeply. Lu Lingfeng (played by Yang Xuwen) and Su Wuming (played by Yang Zhigang),…

Recently, with the simultaneous release of popular ancient costume dramas on major long-video platforms, the competition for the summer blockbuster season has intensified. Among the many highly anticipated dramas, "Dashing Youth" , launched on Youku, stands out uniquely. It belongs to the traditional genre of martial arts dramas but has carved out a new path by presenting a fresh perspective and innovative production that resonates with a youthful audience. Describing it succinctly as a good drama is challenging, yet this complexity doesn't hinder its spread among younger viewers. It vividly portrays the thrilling world of martial arts and paints a captivating picture of heroic figures. The bold youthful spirit and the protagonists' journey of growth in the vast world resonate deeply with the audience. The series features high-intensity action sequences and visually stunning designs that embrace traditional Chinese aesthetics, providing an engaging visual experience. Even though the ultimate goal may not be immediately apparent, following the young heroes as they navigate the martial arts world is compelling in itself. In today's drama market, "Dashing Youth" represents a rare breed of martial arts drama that appeals to the "youthful" sentiment. However, its debut on Youku is not surprising. In recent years,…

As we enter June, dramas with female-centric themes are making a strong impact. Both "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" have delivered impressive performances since their premieres, with steadily rising viewership and discussion heat. Interestingly, both shows are narrated from a "great female lead" perspective, focusing on themes of growth, revenge, and even vengeance. If "being a woman is a condition," these two dramas, set in different backgrounds, illustrate this condition through the characters Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei. By examining the protagonists' settings and fate, we can see the next iteration of the great female lead theme and trace the common issues present in female-centric dramas. So, will the future model for great female leads be Xue Fangfei or Huang Yimei? The plots of "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" are not overly complex. The former depicts a tragic wife who pseudo-reborn and seeks revenge, while the latter revolves around a woman's love story with four men. Both protagonists' stories follow the narrative pattern of female-centric novels: clear character growth, with their pains mainly caused by men. As they grow, the presence of men in their lives diminishes. Additionally, Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei share some overpowered…

In the annals of Chinese history, the Qing Dynasty stands as the final imperial dynasty, ruled by the Manchu ethnic group from 1644 to 1912. Emerging from the northeastern regions between the White Mountains and Black Water, the Manchu people forged a remarkable dynasty that left an indelible mark on Chinese culture and society for nearly three centuries. The roots of the Manchu people trace back to the ancient Jurchen tribes who inhabited the northeastern territories over two millennia ago. Evolving through centuries of interaction and assimilation, they eventually formed distinct identities such as the Jianzhou Jurchens and later, the Manchus. Their cultural evolution was profoundly influenced by interactions with neighboring civilizations, particularly the Han Chinese, leading to the adoption and adaptation of various political, economic, and cultural systems. Central to Manchu identity were their unique customs and traditions, manifesting prominently in their daily lives, attire, and architecture. One of the most iconic features was the traditional male hairstyle known as "Shaving the Front and Braiding the Back." This practice symbolized allegiance to Manchu traditions and was mandatory for men across all societal strata during the Qing Dynasty. Similarly, women adhered to modest dress codes, notably seen in the elegant…

In the bustling city of Foshan's Chancheng district, nestled amid the echoes of its rich industrial past and the promise of innovative futures, a cultural phenomenon known as "Guochao" is reshaping the landscape of manufacturing. What began as a resurgence of national pride has swiftly evolved into a powerful consumer trend, influencing everything from creative industries to household names in electronics and automotive sectors. A recent report titled Insights into Guochao Brands and Young Consumers reveals an astonishing growth of over 500% in Guochao's popularity compared to a decade ago, with millennials and Gen Z contributing a whopping 74% to its consumption. This surge isn't merely a manifestation of cultural confidence but also a beacon of new opportunities for urban industries across China. Foshan, renowned as the epicenter of China's ceramics industry with a history spanning millennia, now finds itself at the forefront of this cultural and industrial fusion. Ventures like Mu Ci (慕瓷) , innovators in the traditional ceramics sector, have witnessed unprecedented success with products like the matte finish Xiangyunsha (香云纱) tiles, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Similarly, HEA, a fashion brand inspired by the vibrant Lion Dance (醒狮) culture of Lingnan, has expanded rapidly across the…

Have you ever heard of Morning Wine? This phrase might sound unfamiliar, but a quick search on platforms like Bilibili or Douyin will reveal videos with hundreds of thousands or even millions of views—scenes depicting a leisurely meal in the early hours, complete with small glasses of wine and a table laden with dishes. This tradition of enjoying a relaxed breakfast with a few drinks has quietly captured the admiration of many, drawing young people to regions like Hubei, Sichuan, and Chongqing, where Morning Wine culture thrives. In the heartlands of China, beyond the bustling cities and serene countryside, lies a breakfast tradition steeped in camaraderie and cultural richness—the practice of Morning Wine (晨酒). Contrary to its name, Morning Wine is not merely about alcohol but embodies a convivial morning meal paired with modest spirits, celebrating local flavors and community ties. Originating along the banks of the mighty Yangtze River, Morning Wine is more than just a meal; it's a social ritual deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. Traditionally enjoyed by laborers and farmers to kickstart their day, it has evolved into a cherished custom celebrated across generations. Beyond Just Morning Drinks: The Allure of Meat At first…

Guilin, the name alone evokes a sense of familiarity even for those who have never set foot in China. The phrase "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven" has etched this city into the national consciousness, making it a household name across generations. Despite this, in recent years, Guilin might not have stood out among popular tourist destinations. Perhaps its familiarity has rendered it almost too well-known, making it seem over-commercialized and over-developed to some. But is this really the case? Has Guilin truly fallen out of favor? Is it still worth visiting? Absolutely. Guilin remains the unrivaled masterpiece of China's natural landscapes, a timeless and poetic destination that continues to captivate the hearts of travelers. Li River Hiking: A Flowing Ink Painting Hiking along the Li River is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Guilin's landscapes. The trail from Nine Horse Fresco Hill to Yangdi, and from Gaozhou Village to the ancient Guihua Path, offers an immersive experience. Walking along mountain paths, riverside trails, and beaches, hikers can enjoy the most exquisite views of the Li River. The mist-covered mountains and clear waters create a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere, making one feel as if they…

Yesterday, on the bustling Jin Street of Wangfujing, the auspicious Jixiang Grand Theatre celebrated its grand reopening for its third anniversary, unveiling the new "Beijing Gifts" opera-themed store. This store promises a cultural feast with its opera-themed jewelry, traditional fan designs inspired by opera scripts, exquisite costumes, and a wide array of cultural products from various Beijing-based opera institutions. Catering to consumers of all ages, this store encapsulates the essence of traditional Chinese opera in modern, accessible forms. Simultaneously, the "Beijing Gifts" store at the National Stadium (Bird's Nest) launched a vibrant summer promotion, marking a total of seven themed stores across different themes this year. A Kaleidoscope of Opera-themed Gifts Upon stepping out of the elevator onto the 7th floor of the Jixiang Grand Theatre at Wangfujing's Intime Department Store, visitors are greeted by the prominent "Beijing Gifts" opera-themed store. This addition enriches the overall experience of visiting and attending performances at the theater, complementing its existing coffee and reading spaces. Inside, the ambiance is steeped in opera culture, with rows of display cases showcasing a variety of products. From intricately designed opera-themed jewelry to playing cards featuring precious old photographs of renowned Peking opera artists, meticulously crafted auspicious…

Have you noticed the increasing number of videos showcasing foreign tourists enjoying their time in China? These travelers become enthusiastic advocates for the country, praising its delicious food, convenient infrastructure, modern cities, and immersive historical and cultural sites. This surge in interest can be attributed to China's "144-hour visa-free transit" policy, which allows visitors from over 50 countries to stay in more than 20 Chinese cities for up to six days without needing a visa, provided they hold tickets to a third country. This policy has led to an influx of tourists exploring cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Macau, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi'an, Wuhan, and Urumqi. As these experiences are shared widely online, more foreigners are inspired to visit China. One of the most captivating aspects of their visits is their reactions to Chinese cuisine. Foods that are commonplace to locals often leave foreign tourists astonished and delighted. Let's explore some of the culinary delights that captivate visitors during their 144-hour stay in China. Baozi, Jianbing, and Other Wheat-based Delights Wheat-based foods are universally beloved, making them an easy introduction to Chinese cuisine for many foreign visitors. Items like steamed buns (baozi), pan-fried buns (shengjianbao), and various flatbreads…