In recent years, adaptations of Jin Yong’s The Legend of the Condor Heroes (射雕英雄传) have continued to captivate audiences, but the latest version, The Legend of Heroes (金庸武侠世界·铁血丹心), offers something different. As someone with a deep interest in both the technical and cultural elements of martial arts dramas, I watched this newest rendition with a combination of curiosity and nostalgia. Having seen many adaptations of the classic, I was keen to explore what fresh perspectives the creators might bring to a story that has been told time and again. This version, as I soon realized, does more than just update the visuals; it actively engages with the changing societal values of today, especially when it comes to gender, character development, and narrative structure. Rethinking the Pace and Structure One of the biggest challenges in adapting a story like The Legend of the Condor Heroes is finding a balance between honoring the original material and keeping the story engaging for modern audiences. In the past, viewers could easily get caught up in the nostalgia of familiar characters and scenes, but that familiarity can sometimes make it hard to fully appreciate a new adaptation. The Legend of Heroes tackles this by speeding…

China’s 5,000 years of civilization are woven with vibrant traditions, and among them, the art of clothing stands out. Today, as the Hanfu resurgence sweeps the nation, Chengdu seizes this momentum to craft a unique cultural identity. The third annual “Yi Qi Jin Guan Cheng” (衣起锦官城) Hanfu Week, held at Wenshufang’s (文殊坊) Shuyi Theater (蜀艺剧院), exemplifies the city’s ambition to fuse heritage with innovation. This year’s highlight? A groundbreaking Hanfu-themed talk show that broke away from the conventional stiffness of forums. Featuring industry pioneers and cultural enthusiasts, the event sparked fresh conversations about leveraging Hanfu as both a cultural symbol and an economic engine. Hanfu is more than attire; it’s a cultural bridge between cities. The event featured prominent voices from historical hubs like Luoyang, Xi’an, Beijing, and Hangzhou, each sharing their success stories in integrating Hanfu into tourism and urban branding. Luoyang: Reviving the Silk Road Aesthetic As a city steeped in dynastic history, Luoyang has embraced Hanfu to invigorate its tourism. Huang Xiaofeng, a Hanfu brand founder, shared how the "Hanfu economy" has transformed local industries—from cultural tours to traditional manufacturing. "Luoyang and Chengdu share a common vision: creating a network of Hanfu cities to preserve and celebrate…

Li Qin (李沁): The Soul of Xue Ziye (薛紫夜) Portraying the enigmatic Xue Ziye, Li Qin approached her character with both admiration and challenge. As the youngest master of Yao Master Valley, Ziye’s life is one of quiet authority, layered with grace and restraint. For Li Qin, the role demanded a delicate balance between Ziye’s icy exterior and the fire that burns within her—a dynamic she calls the “paradox of warmth and distance.” Li Qin drew parallels between her own personality and Ziye’s demeanor. “At first glance, people may think I’m a bit cold,” she shared, “but I’m actually warm and optimistic once you know me. Ziye is similar. Beneath her composed surface, she’s passionate, resilient, and deeply empathetic.” A standout trait for Li Qin was Ziye’s quiet defiance of traditional gender roles in a martial arts-dominated world. “She’s not just a healer; she’s a warrior of compassion,” Li said. “Her strength isn’t in physical combat but in her ability to mend the broken, whether it’s bodies or hearts. That kind of power feels timeless and relevant.” However, Ziye’s reserved nature also posed a unique acting challenge. With few spoken lines, much of Ziye’s emotion had to be conveyed through…

Hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han people, is more than just clothing. It embodies over 4,000 years of history, reflecting Chinese etiquette, philosophy, and aesthetic values. Recently, the Hanfu revival movement has flourished, reconnecting the present with the past. From digital platforms to offline gatherings, Hanfu enthusiasts are bringing this cultural treasure back to modern life. In the historic city of Suzhou, a group of young Hanfu enthusiasts stands out. Predominantly from the post-80s and 90s generation, these professionals and students have found a common passion in wearing Hanfu. Their mission? To integrate Hanfu into everyday life and revive its presence. “We believe that restoring Hanfu is a step toward reconnecting with our cultural roots,” says Wang Zhen (王震), founder of the Gusu (姑苏) Hanfu Society. Blending Hanfu with Modern Living Suzhou, a city renowned for its 2,500 years of history, offers the perfect backdrop for Hanfu's resurgence. Members of the Gusu Hanfu Society incorporate Hanfu into their daily routines, from shopping at the local market to attending cultural events. One member, Lan Xiaoli, embraces this lifestyle wholeheartedly. She often shops for ingredients at the local market while wearing Hanfu, drawing curiosity and admiration from vendors and shoppers alike.…

On November 30, 2024, the 2024 China (Beijing) International Ceramic Exhibition officially opened, marking the beginning of a spectacular celebration of ceramic culture in the heart of China's capital. This year's exhibition is not just a showcase of artistic works but also a deep dive into the rich history, tradition, and future of ceramic art in China. With more than 1,000 exhibitors from over 20 major ceramic-producing regions, the event reflects the immense diversity and talent that exists within China's ceramic industry. The exhibition spans a vast array of spaces and features works from ceramic schools, individual artisans, and renowned enterprises, bringing together a comprehensive representation of China's ceramic prowess. As the world's leading ceramic exporter and a country with an unparalleled ceramic heritage, China's ceramic industry continues to push boundaries while maintaining its deep connection to ancient traditions. The 2024 exhibition captures both these aspects, blending modernity and tradition in a stunning display. An Extensive Display of Ceramic Mastery The scale of the exhibition is enormous, with over 1,000 exhibitors presenting a wide range of ceramics, from functional pottery and exquisite porcelain to avant-garde art pieces. A highlight of the event is the participation of over 50 flagship companies…

The Rise of Traditional Wear in Modern China China’s cultural revival has swept through its fashion scene, with traditional garments like the qipao and hanfu reclaiming their places in the limelight. This resurgence reflects a growing appreciation for cultural heritage, as well as a desire to reimagine the past through modern lenses. Among these garments, the qipao—China's iconic dress known for its elegance and form-fitting silhouette—has become a beloved representation of China's intangible cultural heritage. Infused with the elegance of a bygone era, the qipao is more than just attire; it’s a poetic, historical tapestry woven with tradition, grace, and beauty. In Tianjin's Chifeng Street, nestled amid the bustle of city life, stands a historic qipao boutique, Ji Qing Xiang (吉庆祥) Qipao Family Store. For over 140 years, Ji Qing Xiang has been a steward of qipao craftsmanship, evolving from a modest fabric shop to a renowned custodian of traditional Chinese attire. Here, where history lingers in every corner, founder Li Qing’s descendants now introduce modern twists into their creations, appealing to the tastes of young fashion enthusiasts. A Young Artisan at the Heart of Tradition At the helm of Ji Qing Xiang’s legacy is Ji Ruqing (吉洳庆), the fifth-generation…

In recent years, Guangzhou has become a vibrant canvas for Hanfu culture, with enthusiasts donning traditional Chinese attire on festive streets. These flowing garments, reflecting ancient Chinese aesthetics, are more than just fashion statements—they embody a deep appreciation for cultural heritage. From bustling commercial hubs to serene gardens, Hanfu's resurgence highlights the city’s commitment to celebrating tradition in contemporary ways. The Rise of the Hanfu Economy The booming popularity of Hanfu has transformed parts of Guangzhou into cultural hotspots, with businesses catering to this niche. Areas like Yongqingfang (永庆坊) and the cultural zone around the Guangzhou Cultural Center have become home to flourishing Hanfu shops, offering everything from rentals to professional makeup and photography services. For as little as 28 yuan, customers can rent a Hanfu outfit; full makeup and photography packages start at just over 100 yuan. Shops like those managed by Xiaoxiao (晓晓), a young entrepreneur, stock hundreds of Hanfu pieces—ranging from intricate Tang dynasty robes to elegant Song dynasty styles and stately Ming dynasty attire. "Our collection spans diverse styles and price points," Xiaoxiao explains. "Even though my shop is small, our inventory is worth over 200,000 yuan." Other areas, such as Dezhen Science and Technology Innovation…

In the bustling world of Chinese historical dramas, where palace intrigues and royalty tales dominate, The Story of Pearl Girl (珠帘玉幕) breaks through with a refreshing narrative. Directed by the talented Xie Ze (谢泽), this captivating series redefines the genre by focusing on the journey of a downtrodden woman rising from slavery to empowerment. Based on the novel Prequel to Kunshan Jade (昆山玉之前传) by Tan Tianyin (谈天音), the show paints a rich tapestry of resilience, commerce, and human emotion. The drama's protagonist, Duanwu (端午), portrayed by Zhao Lusi (赵露思), begins her story as a pearl-diving slave. After enduring unimaginable hardships, she escapes her brutal life and crosses paths with two complex characters: Yanzi Jing (燕子京), a vengeful merchant played by Liu Yuning (刘宇宁), and Zhang Jinran (张晋然), a gentleman with secrets, played by Tang Xiaotian (唐晓天). The intertwining of personal quests and grand ambitions sets the stage for an emotionally charged and action-packed series that keeps audiences enthralled. Redefining the Female Lead One of the most striking elements of The Story of Pearl Girl is its bold departure from the typical female leads of historical dramas. Instead of portraying princesses or noblewomen, Xie Ze introduces viewers to a protagonist who…

A Fantasy That Divides: Beauty or a Beast in Disguise? The recent release of Fangs of Fortune (大梦归离) has ignited a fiery debate among viewers, solidifying its place as one of the most polarizing dramas of the season. Directed by Guo Jingming (郭敬明), known for his divisive cinematic style, this new venture builds on his earlier work, Cloud Feather. While fans hail Fangs of Fortune as a rare gem that revitalizes the fantasy genre with its dazzling visuals and bold narrative, critics deride it as an overindulgent spectacle with little substance beneath its glamorous surface. This divide echoes Guo’s career-long reception: celebrated by some, castigated by others. A World Beyond Genre Categorizing Fangs of Fortune is no easy task. It flirts with elements of fantasy, mystery, and wuxia (martial arts drama), fusing them into a narrative that defies convention. Set in a mystical world where humans, gods, and monsters coexist, the show weaves a tale of intrigue, danger, and fractured allegiances. The drama draws heavily from The Classic of Mountains and Seas (山海经), an ancient Chinese text brimming with mythical creatures. The plot unfolds during the Zhenyuan (桢沅) Era, a time of chaos triggered by the untimely death of the…

In The Rise of Ning (锦绣安宁), a new historical drama adapted from the novel Prime Minister’s Guide, two characters with humble beginnings navigate their way through the complexities of power and family dynamics. This isn’t merely a story of one individual's transformation—it’s a journey of dual growth, where both the male and female protagonists pursue justice and empowerment from their disadvantaged positions. With rich character development, the series introduces Ro Shenyuan (罗慎远) and Ro Yining (罗宜宁), two resilient figures overcoming their oppressive family backgrounds in strikingly parallel paths. This "dual upbringing" concept presents audiences with a captivating exploration of ambition, loyalty, and self-discovery. Ro Shenyuan’s Path: The Underdog Turned Conqueror Ro Shenyuan's backstory is riddled with hardship and resilience. As a neglected son in a prominent household, he endures the harsh treatment of a father who sees little worth in him. Forbidden from pursuing education or even stepping outside the manor, Shenyuan’s world is small and brutal. Yet, despite his father’s antagonism, Shenyuan’s intelligence and hidden ambition carve out a different path for him. With the help of a beloved teacher, he discovers the courage to rise above his fate. Tragically, his mentor's unjust death becomes a lifelong source of…

A Bold New Frontier in Animation and Ecology As the first domestic animated film to tackle the theme of the Yangtze River’s unique ecosystem, The Dance With the Finless Promise (江豚·风时舞) boldly ventures into a relatively untouched genre. Its main character, the Yangtze River dolphin, shines a light on China’s endangered aquatic wildlife and broader environmental concerns. Despite the technical and storytelling challenges of portraying aquatic life, this film attempts to immerse viewers in an underrepresented realm of nature that is both visually complex and emotionally delicate. While animal-themed films have long enchanted audiences worldwide, they mostly center on terrestrial animals. Films about underwater creatures remain rare, often limited by technical constraints, the challenge of capturing aquatic behavior, and viewers' limited emotional connection to marine animals. These factors set The Dance With the Finless Promise apart, as it ambitiously combines an artistic portrayal of an endangered species with the practical goals of raising awareness about ecological preservation. Creating a realistic underwater world poses significant technical challenges. Underwater scenes demand specialized equipment and expertise, such as high-quality underwater cameras, lighting adjustments for variable water conditions, and the need to replicate water’s movement realistically. The high production costs and complex requirements for…

In a television landscape dominated by fast-paced, short-form series, director Zhao Qichen (赵启辰) has crafted a refreshing alternative with Go East. Building on his earlier success with Life Begins (卿卿日常), this ambitious series offers an innovative blend of historical settings, youth drama, and well-timed humor. Set within the fictional imperial capital of Dayong (大雍), Zhao weaves a story that transcends traditional boundaries, taking viewers on a journey of discovery, cultural clash, and personal growth. Through its rich narrative and the distinct personalities of its main characters, the series delivers a unique viewing experience—an invitation to see ancient struggles through a modern lens, punctuated with laughter and emotional resonance. A Unique World of Cultures and Contrasts Go East revolves around a diverse and vividly imagined empire, where seven unique states, or “fiefs,” interact within the expansive halls of Go East, a central governing institution. Each fiefdom, or “band,” is represented with its own distinct language, symbols, and cultural practices. This diversity is not merely for aesthetic effect; it’s integral to the story. Zhao notes that by creating such distinct cultural identities, he introduces both dramatic conflict and cross-cultural exchange. From the matriarchal customs of the Moon Shadow clan to the mountainous,…

On October 31, 2024, Tokyo hosted the 9th HSK Study Abroad and Employment Fair. China's rising global influence became an attractive destination for young Japanese seeking academic and professional opportunities. With nearly 60 Chinese universities and Chinese-Japanese businesses participating, the event served as a vibrant platform for showcasing China's dynamic market and its diverse possibilities to Japanese youth. One of the standout moments came from Ayata Utsunomiya, a recent Waseda University graduate who shared his journey and insights into the growing opportunities in China. "During my time studying in China, I realized just how vast the potential of the Chinese market is. Seeing Japanese companies thrive in China inspired me to consider working for Japanese firms closely connected to Chinese trade and business," Utsunomiya said. His remarks reflected the broader sentiment at the fair, where many young Japanese participants were eager to explore China's economic prospects and cultural exchanges. The Dynamic Appeal of Studying and Working in China The HSK Fair saw a high turnout, with young attendees ranging from university students to recent graduates seeking to understand China's potential as a place for higher education and professional growth. Among the most enthusiastic were three sisters of mixed Chinese-Japanese descent,…

Zheng Qinwen's (郑钦文) breakthrough year continued with an inspiring run to the final of the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh. Despite falling short in a dramatic encounter with Coco Gauff, Zheng's journey was a testament to her incredible growth and determination. The final, which lasted 3 hours and 4 minutes, saw Zheng take the first set 6-3, only to see Gauff fight back in the following two sets, winning 6-4 and 7-6. Although Zheng could not clinch the title, her performance throughout the week showed that she has genuinely arrived among tennis's elite. In a match that was as emotionally taxing as physically demanding, Zheng had her chances. Leading 3-1 in the second set and holding a 5-4 advantage in the decider, she was just two points away from the title. However, Gauff's composure and adaptability under pressure proved decisive. Despite saving four championship points, Zheng ultimately couldn't maintain her momentum, succumbing in a tightly contested tiebreak. This narrow defeat highlighted just how close Zheng was to achieving her dream, but it also underscored how much she has learned on the world stage. Though Zheng's quest for a first WTA Finals title fell short, 2024 has been a year filled…

On November 8, 2024, a historic milestone marked a new chapter in tourism between China and South Korea. Implementing China's visa-free policy for South Korean nationals brought immediate benefits, with the first South Korean traveler, Mr. Lee, arriving at Ningbo (宁波) Airport on flight 9C8626. As he completed his entry without a visa, Mr. Lee shared his excitement, noting the policy's significant time and cost savings. His arrival was symbolic of a broader trend: South Korean nationals were now free to travel to China for business, tourism, or family visits without the burden of securing a visa—valid for stays up to 15 days. This move is part of a trial visa-free policy for nine countries, which began on November 8 and will run through December 31, 2025. The policy covers South Korea, alongside other nations, and aims to promote tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. The immediate impact of this policy was felt across the travel industry, with booking platforms like Ctrip reporting a noticeable uptick in South Korean visitors planning trips to China. A Surge in South Korean Tourism to China The visa-free policy has injected a sense of optimism into China's tourism sector, especially regarding South Korean travelers. Before…

On November 5th, 2024, the Peruvian capital of Lima became a vibrant centre for business, culture, and opportunity as the "Opportunities China · Brand Chongqing" promotion event unfolded at the China-Peru Friendship Center. Initially expecting around 65 attendees, this grand event saw an overwhelming turnout of over 200 individuals, all eager to explore the opportunities that Chongqing—China's western powerhouse—has to offer. The event highlighted Chongqing's thriving industries and sought to strengthen ties with Peru and Latin America, positioning the city as a critical player in the region's economic future. The promotion featured six significant aspects of Chongqing's growth: the city's innovative manufacturing ("Made in Chongqing"), educational opportunities ("Study in Chongqing"), investment potential ("Invest in Chongqing"), and cultural heritage ("The Beauty of Chongqing"), among others. These themes were showcased through various engaging activities, including a Chongqing city photo exhibition, tastings of Chongqing's renowned spicy noodles, and presentations on Chongqing's industrial strength. However, the unique cultural exchange that brought together Chinese and Peruvian traditions left the most lasting impression. Chongqing's Economic Growth and Peruvian Opportunities Chongqing is one of China's fastest-growing municipalities, with robust industries spanning from manufacturing and automotive to technology and tourism. One of the event's highlights was the promotion…

After 1799 days—more than four and a half years—Ding Junhui (丁俊晖) has finally reclaimed his spot at the pinnacle of professional snooker. On November 10, 2024, he clinched his 15th-ranking title at the World Snooker International Championship, defeating England's Chris Wakelin 10-7 in a thrilling final. This victory ended a long drought, with Ding's last ranking title coming in December 2019. His triumph was not just about winning a trophy; it symbolized a comeback story of grit, perseverance, and heart. Trials and Tribulations Ding's journey to this moment took work. Despite being one of the most talented snooker players in the world, his recent form had needed to be more consistent, and his performances often fell short in high-stakes matches. In the lead-up to this championship, his career appeared to slump. A month earlier, Chris Wakelin eliminated him early in the Wuhan Open, the very player he would face in the final. Yet, Ding's performance at the International Championship was a different story. He returned to form from the start, knocking out several top players, including world number two Kyren Wilson, in the quarterfinals. The competition at the tournament was fierce, with heavyweights like Judd Trump, Mark Selby, Shaun Murphy,…

The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as the China Airshow, opened on November 12, 2024, in Zhuhai (珠海), Guangdong (广东). This year's event has drawn over 1,000 exhibitors from 47 countries and regions, including major players like Russia, France, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Italy, each presenting their most advanced aerospace technologies. Notably, several groundbreaking "high-tech, high-precision, and cutting-edge" products made their debut, further solidifying China's role as a global leader in aerospace and defense. A Sky Full of Innovation The opening day's highlight was the breathtaking aerial performances by some of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. The Chinese J-20, J-35A, and Russia's Su-57 took to the skies in a stunning display of speed, agility, and precision. This marked the first time two new-generation Chinese stealth fighters, the J-20S and J-35A, were showcased together. The J-20S, a dual-seat, medium-to-long-range, heavy fighter, was impressed with its superior air superiority capabilities and ability to conduct air-to-ground and air-to-sea precision strikes. It's designed for sophisticated combat operations, including manned-unmanned collaborative missions. The J-35A, another new-generation stealth fighter, is focused on achieving and maintaining air superiority, targeting enemy aircraft, and intercepting missiles, thus strengthening China's position…

For most people, travelling is an opportunity to experience new places, meet new people, and capture unforgettable moments. However, for Colombian content creator Gao Fei (高飞), Xinjiang—a region often misrepresented in Western media—has become a personal mission. Having visited the vast and culturally rich Chinese province 10 times since 2021, Gao has dedicated much of his work to showing the world the authentic side of Xinjiang through the lens of his camera. Gao, a travel blogger and social media influencer, arrived in Xinjiang for the first time after being unsettled by the inaccurate portrayals he saw in Western news. What he found was a vastly different reality. "I've lived in China for nearly 20 years, and I knew that the stories I saw in the media didn't reflect what was happening here," he explains. "I wanted to come and experience Xinjiang for myself, to capture the truth and share it with others." Discovering Xinjiang's Majestic Beauty Xinjiang is known for its stunning landscapes—rolling grasslands, dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling lakes, and vast deserts. For Gao, these natural wonders have been one of the key reasons for his repeated visits. His video footage captures the grandeur of places like the vast grasslands…

Jingdezhen (景德镇), a city steeped in over two thousand years of ceramic history, continues to captivate the world with its unparalleled porcelain craftsmanship. For many international students, this ancient city in Jiangxi Province represents more than just a place to study—it symbolizes a chance to connect with a vital piece of China's cultural heritage. A recent visit by students from Morocco, Mozambique, Kazakhstan, and Iran highlights the global allure of Jingdezhen's porcelain and the profound influence of Chinese traditional arts in fostering cross-cultural understanding. In early November, a group of international students, organized by the Jiangxi International Communication Universities Alliance, travelled to the heart of China's porcelain industry to explore the world of ceramics. Their journey through the China Ceramic Museum and the Imperial Kiln Museum allowed them to witness firsthand the beauty and complexity of Chinese porcelain, which has been an integral part of both Eastern and Western cultural exchanges for centuries. As they strolled through the galleries, they were struck by the intricate designs and the historical significance of the pieces, some of which date back to the Tang Dynasty. "Seeing the porcelain in the museums was like reading a history book," says Song Yiren (宋伊人), a student…