A saying from ancient China goes like this: "One day, the color fades. Two days, the fragrance goes. Three days, the taste is gone." That's how fragile fresh lychees were—especially when you're trying to haul them over 5,000 miles from Lingnan to the imperial capital of Chang'an. For a low-ranking clerk like Li Shande, the lead character in The Litchi Road, this was basically mission impossible. Fast forward 1,200 years, and author Ma Boyong found himself in a similar bind: finishing a 70,000-word novel in just 11 days. Running on pure adrenaline (or what he called "flow state"), Ma pulled it off. And in his story, Li Shande does too—armed with nothing but math skills and the kind of desperation that leaves no room for failure. This whole "impossible mission" theme didn't stop at the book. It carried over to the TV adaptation too. The production team faced its own version of the lychee run: staying loyal to the book while also making bold changes, and doing it at a time when short-form web content is king and long-format storytelling feels like an endangered species. How hard was it? Well, that depends on how fast the TV industry decides to…

You've probably already heard the buzz around The Prisoner of Beauty—this season's hot topic in Chinese historical TV. But let's forget about the plot for a second. As a jewelry person, I couldn't take my eyes off the accessories. The hairpieces, the pendants, the gemstone details—they're not just for show. They're little time capsules of Han dynasty aesthetics, each piece tied to materials and craftsmanship that were actually used two thousand years ago. The story seems set around the late Eastern Han period (roughly 2nd to 3rd century AD). So let's talk about what jewelry looked like back then—what stones they had, where they came from, and who got to wear what. First, let's talk about the crown jewel of the era: Hetian jade (a highly prized nephrite jade from Xinjiang). This wasn't something ordinary people could casually buy. Most of it traveled along what historians call the "Jade Road", a network of ancient trade routes connecting Xinjiang to central China. According to excavated Han dynasty documents from Dunhuang, one stone could cost up to 300 qian. Back then, large-scale mining wasn't really a thing. Miners would wait for seasonal floods to reveal river-polished pebbles, then trek on foot through…

For over a decade, Allen Ren Jialun (任嘉伦) has reigned as Chinese television's undisputed "Costume Drama King"—a master of emotional depth who transforms mythical worlds into visceral human experiences. From tortured immortals to morally complex half-demons, his performances fuse breathtaking aesthetics with soul-wrenching storytelling. Here's your definitive guide to his seven most iconic roles. Under the Power 锦衣之下 Aired: December 2019 Period Background: Ming Dynasty Genres: Historical Suspense, Romance, Detective. Main Roles: Ren Jialun (Lu Yi), Seven Tan (Yuan Jinxia) Adapted From: Blue Lion's novel Set in the Ming Dynasty's Jiajing era, the series centers on Lu Yi, a feared Jinyiwei commander whose icy efficiency masks a tormented past, and Yuan Jinxia, a street-smart detective from the Six Gates investigative bureau. Initially adversarial—Lu Yi views Jinxia's optimism as naïveté, while she resents his ruthless methods—their dynamic shifts when ordered to collaborate on a high-stakes corruption case involving royal intrigue and salt smuggling. As they uncover layers of conspiracy, their friction evolves into mutual respect, then forbidden love, complicated by Jinxia's discovery that Lu's father orchestrated her family's massacre years prior. The plot masterfully balances political tension with emotional stakes, culminating in their alliance against a common enemy: a royal faction…

As twilight paints Shanghai's skyline in hues of gold and violet, Nanjing Road transforms into a pulsating artery of summer euphoria. The "Shanghai Summer" campaign ignites China’s premier commercial street with an electrifying fusion of culture, commerce, and cosmopolitan energy. From late June through August, this iconic boulevard unveils a meticulously crafted symphony of experiences designed for global travelers and local revelers alike. Centered on three transformative keywords—Summer Show, Summer Fun, and Summer Sales—the initiative redefines urban summer leisure through immersive IP exhibitions, boundary-pushing entertainment, and pioneering retail innovations. This isn’t merely a festival; it’s Shanghai extending a glittering invitation to experience the heartbeat of modern China. Summer Show Step into a realm where beloved characters leap from screens and history books collide with futuristic visions. Nanjing Road morphs into a dynamic stage for storytelling and spectacle. Beloved animated icons likePleasant Goatand the irresistibly chillCapybaralead vibrant parades, weaving through the crowds for 2 days of interactive delight. Over at New World City, the Ultraman 60th Anniversary Exhibition transcends nostalgia. Rare artifacts spanning six decades share space with an immersive "Light Domain Theater," while the 2025 hero "Ultraman Omegar" makes his dramatic world debut on a custom-built stage. Century Plaza amplifies…

Beneath the stage lights of a Kunqu opera performance, Du Liniang (杜丽娘) glides forward, the iridescent blues and greens of her diancui (kingfisher feather art) headdress shimmering with every step. In the audience, 90s-generation jewelry designer Wang Shenglin (王圣临) watches his creation come alive, a testament to centuries-old craftsmanship captivating a modern crowd. This scene encapsulates a vibrant cultural renaissance: young artisans are breathing new life into China’s imperial jewelry traditions, transforming intricate techniques like diancui (点翠), filigree, and enamel work from museum relics into coveted “New Chinese Chic” accessories. From social media sensations to sold-out night classes, these artisans aren’t just preserving history—they’re rewriting it for a generation proud of its heritage. Artisans Rekindle the Flame Social media platforms buzz with admiration for Wang Shenglin’s creations. His designs—a diancui coronet adorned with “mountain-sea” motifs, silver-gilded filigree peony hairpins, or butterfly earrings inspired by Palace Museum treasures—garner thousands of “stunning!” and “so ethereal!” comments. Followers eagerly inquire about purchasing these wearable pieces of history, blurring the line between cultural appreciation and contemporary fashion. The passion extends beyond online admiration. Young creators immerse themselves in meticulous apprenticeships. Lü Jikai (吕纪凯), another 90s talent, spent a year painstakingly recreating a Qing Dynasty…

The series of activities of the 2025 Beijing Great Wall Culture Festival in Huairou District - the "2025 Huairou National Trend Culture Season" will set off a national trend fashion in Huairou District, Beijing from July to October. Chinese and foreign Hanfu enthusiasts experienced immersive Hanfu travel photography in Qinglong Gorge, Huairou, Beijing, preheating the "2025 Huairou National Trend Culture Season" which will kick off in July. Hanfu Tourism Photography Theme Experience As the first pre - heating event, the immersive Hanfu travel photography theme experience was recently held in Qinglong Gorge. Twenty Chinese and foreign Hanfu enthusiasts gathered in Huairou, becoming the first batch of "Hanfu experience officers" to feel the charm of the integration of the national trend and nature, and let the world see the new expression of Chinese aesthetics where tradition and modernity are intertwined. "This is a blue - and - white porcelain bowl with a painting of ladies from the Ming Dynasty. We dressed up and took photos imitating the scene here, which made me feel the fun of the ancients painting their lives on porcelain." The influencer "Xiaoxi", who participated in the event, has had a strong interest in traditional culture since childhood.…

On June 24, a set of candid photos from Resurrection (狂野时代) cast’s post-festival celebration swept across social media, offering a rare glimpse into the camaraderie behind one of 2025’s most talked-about films. Taken in a cozy Parisian dining room adorned with Chinese paper-cut decorations, the images captured lead actors Yi Yangqianxi (易烊千玺), Mark Chao (赵又廷), and Huang Jue (黄觉) - alongside director Bi Gan (毕赣) - raising glasses in exuberant toast, their faces flushed with both alcohol and pride. This wasn’ just a casual meal; it was a victory lap for a film that had just rewritten Chinese cinema’s history at the Cannes Film Festival. Cannes Triumph Triggers a Hearty Feast The mood at the dinner was electric, a direct reflection of Resurrection’ landmark success. Having become the first Chinese film in a decade to win a Special Prize in Cannes’ prestigious Main Competition, the cast and crew had every reason to celebrate. “You could feel the relief and joy in the air,” one attendee later commented. “It’s not just about the trophy - it’s about proving Chinese cinema’s global voice.” Yi Yangqianxi, often known for his reserved public persona, stole the spotlight. Clad in a crisp blue shirt with…

Within days of its premiere, The Princesss Gambit (桃花映江山) has ignited fervent discussion, its viewership soaring past 23,000 and climbing rapidly. This adaptation of Bai Lu Cheng Shuang's novel The Peach Blossom Folds the Rivers and Mountains (桃花折江山) thrusts viewers into the treacherous courts of Northern Yan and Da Qi. Princess Jiang Taohua (Meng Ziyi), a disposable pawn sacrificed in a royal power play, finds herself in a forced marriage to the formidable and morally ambiguous Prime Minister, Shen Zaiye (Liu Xueyi). Their union, born from desperation and political maneuvering, sets the stage for a dangerous dance where survival hinges on outwitting enemies, navigating palace conspiracies, and deciphering each other’s motives. Directed by the acclaimed Yi Jun (The Tribute of Youth,The Legend of Fuyao), the series wastes no time plunging audiences into a world of razor-sharp tension, breathtaking visuals, and complex characters whose motives are as layered as the intricate plots they weave. Yi Jun's Signature Precision Director Yi Jun's (易军) masterful control is evident from the opening frames. The premiere episode efficiently establishes the dire stakes: Taohua's desperate escape attempt, her heartbreaking sacrifice to save her brother, and the perilous journey to Da Qi. Yi Jun utilizes stark lighting…

Prepare for a genre-bending journey as The Scroll of Dreams (书卷一梦) materializes onto screens. Premiering June 26th, this 38-episode costume drama boasts a unique premise: a modern actress plunges into her audition script's ancient world. Produced by iQIYI and broadcast simultaneously on Jiangsu Satellite TV's prime-time slot, the series leverages powerhouse platforms to reach a vast audience. Unlike typical transmigration tales soaring through celestial realms, The Scroll of Dreams plants its feet firmly in a grounded historical setting. Its core allure lies in the audacious "book people's awakening journey" - characters rebelling against their preordained fates. With a stellar cast led by Li Yitong (李一桐) and Liu Yuning (刘宇宁) , and a director famed for visual poetry (Guo Hu), the show radiates breakout potential, poised to challenge the dominance of recent fantasy hits like Eternal Night of the Stars (永夜星河). Anti-Trope Narrative Takes Flight Forget predictable arcs. The Scroll of Dreams thrives on subverting expectations. Protagonist Song Xiaoyu (Li Yitong), a struggling actress, doesn't merely read her lines; she becomes Song Yimeng, the ill-fated heroine of the period script she's auditioning for. Her immediate goal isn't romance or power, but sheer survival - a "desperate escape for survival" . Armed…

The arena lights dim. The roar of the crowd fades. For Sun Yingsha (孙颖莎), Wang Manyu (王曼昱), and Chen Meng (陈梦) - China’s indomitable table tennis "Golden Flowers" - this isn’t an exit, but an entrance. Fresh from defending national glory on the Olympic stage, these athletes are executing a masterful pivot, trading crisp ping pong whites for haute couture and commanding covers of Vogue’s peers with the same fierce precision they deploy against opponents. Their journey isn't just about endorsements; it’s a cultural recalibration, proving athletic rigor translates seamlessly into runway-ready allure. The Unstoppable Rise of Wang Manyu Wang Manyu’s ascent in fashion mirrors her relentless climb in world rankings - swift, decisive, and impossible to ignore. Fresh off securing silver and gold at the grueling 2025 Doha World Championships, she landed in Beijing and headed straight to a farm. The result? A stunning GLASS China June cover, radiating cool detachment in Longchamp’s sleek Autumn/Winter 2025 separates. Her secret weapon? A natural intensity dubbed "Cold-Face Warrior" by fans. This 176cm powerhouse possesses the rare ability to make a simple black Balenciaga hoodie and jeans, worn at the brand’s Beijing flagship opening, look like high art. "Fashion events are small courts compared to world championships," one stylist…

Why do fairies in ancient costume dramas always have two loops on their heads? It seems that in the ancient costume dramas I watched as a child, fairies all sported this hairstyle. Usually, there are two loops, but there can also be multiple loops. What's the name of this hairstyle? Let me give the answer first. This hairstyle is called the Double-loop (Bun) Immortal-worshipping Hairdo, which evolved from the Double-loop Hairdo. "Bun" and "loop" are interchangeable, just different terms. The Double-loop Hairdo was originally a hairstyle for young girls, and multiple loops can also be collectively referred to as "Bun Hairdos". But perhaps because it's so beautiful, this hairstyle also frequently appears in paintings of immortals, such as the famous ancient painting The Nymph of the Luo River and The Scroll of Eighty-seven Immortals. Since then, the fashion has spread throughout history. Because it's the hairstyle of fairies, people weren't satisfied with the traditional name of the double-loop and gave it a new name, "Immortal-worshipping Hairdo". As the name suggests, "this style can only be found in the heavens". Evolution of the Hairstyle You can see that there's an evolutionary context from the traditional Double-loop Hairdo to the Double-loop Immortal-worshipping…

In the world of Qipao, sleeve selection is crucial! In Qipao making, sleeves are an extremely important part. They not only help the skirt and waist achieve a slender silhouette but also accentuate the delicate beauty of the shoulders and neck. Moreover, a uniquely - designed and romantic sleeve is like the icing on the cake, an extension of decoration and an enhancement of beauty. Today, I'll focus on the sleeve types and styles of Qipao and discuss what kinds of sleeves it has. Classic Qipao Sleeve Types Sleeveless: A versatile Qipao style, it's light and simple, allowing the arms to be more fully exposed, which helps elongate the arm lines and create a slender figure. Shoulder Sleeve: The shoulder and sleeve parts are connected, creating soft shoulder lines and highlighting the overall feel of traditional Qipao, naturally fitting the curve of our shoulders. It's especially friendly to ladies with narrow shoulders and is often used in younger - styled Qipao. Moon Sleeve: Based on the sleeveless design, a small sleeve is added, softening the shoulder lines and providing some coverage for a slimming effect. Ultra - short Sleeve: Slightly longer than the moon sleeve, offering better coverage for the…

September 9th is a special festival in Chinese traditional festivals. The Double Ninth Festival on this day is special because of its auspicious meaning. On the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, both the day and the month are 9, so it's called "Chongjiu". Also, 9 belongs to Yang in ancient times, and double Yang is a good omen and a good meaning. So on this day, there have always been traditional customs like "climbing high to drive away evil spirits, wearing dogwood, appreciating chrysanthemums, and sacrificing to heaven, earth, and ancestors to express gratitude for the harvest". In addition, it's also a festival for visiting relatives and respecting the elderly. In 1989, our government officially designated the 9th day of the 9th lunar month as "China's Senior Citizens' Day". On such a celebratory day, buying a gift for elders to show respect and love has become a top priority for many people. So what kind of gift to choose? If you haven't decided yet, we suggests giving your relatives or mother a cheongsam, which represents the beauty of Chinese national essence and is a women's national dress. It not only echoes the traditional festival atmosphere of the Double…

The afterglow of Ne Zha: Rebirth of the Demon still lingers. With the arrival of the summer movie season, animated films are stirring again. The summer movie season, as a peak period for teenage movie - goers, has always been the stronghold of animated films, and this year is no exception. According to Maoyan Professional Edition data, as of June 20th, 85 movies are expected to be released during the season, among which there are a full 17 animated films. It's another big year for anime. The anime craze in the film market has lasted for quite a long time. From the fierce competition of animated films in the 2024 summer movie season to the nationwide viewing boom of Ne Zha 2 during the 2025 Spring Festival, animated films have always had a high profile. However, this hustle and bustle is only reflected in the number of films. Or rather, the excitement belongs to Ne Zha 2 alone. The continuous slump in box - office performance is the norm for the animated film market. Facing the situation of 'one super - strong and many weak', can animated films recapture their stronghold this summer? Animated Films The clustering of animated films…

2025 marks a monumental year for Chinese animation, signaling a cultural renaissance that has fans worldwide buzzing with anticipation. This isn't just a wave - it's a tsunami of creativity, with over a dozen highly anticipated films set to debut, reflecting China's growing confidence in storytelling and technological innovation. For decades, Japanese and Western animations dominated the global scene, but 2025 changes the game. Studios like Shanghai Animation Film Studio and creators such as Yi Zhongtian (易中天) (famed for his historical expertise) are pushing boundaries, blending ancient myths with cutting-edge CGI. The lineup includes titles ranging from fantasy adventures to historical epics, all poised to captivate audiences with their unique narratives. This surge is fueled by rising domestic talent and international recognition, as seen in films like A Story About Fire (燃比娃), which premiered at the Berlin International Festival. For anime enthusiasts, this year promises an unprecedented feast of imagination, where every release feels like a step toward redefining what animation can achieve in the 21st century. Stories That Redefine Fantasy Among the standout films, Endless Journey of Love (时间之子) stands out with its blend of historical Shanghai and supernatural intrigue. Set for release on May 30, it follows Qian…

What's the name of the rabbit - like hairstyle on Song Zuer's head? In ancient - costumed dramas, we often spot this kind of rabbit - like hair bun, which netizens lovingly call the 'rabbit hairstyle'. What's its origin? Why do female stars adore it? Let me share the conclusion first. This hair bun resembling rabbit ears can generally be called 'double buns'. Double buns are a general term for two buns. Looking into specific styling details, they can also be named 'Lily Buns', 'Intertwined - heart Buns', etc., all styles of double buns. There's a gap in the middle or they're crossed, and it was a popular hairstyle in the early and prosperous Tang Dynasty. We can see it in many TV dramas, usually paired with Tang - style Hanfu, like the chest - high shirt and skirt, showing simplicity and vitality, as well as a girlish charm. According to 'Zhonghua Gujin Zhu' by Ma Gao of the Five Dynasties, the Lily Bun was very trendy during the Zhenguan period: 'During the Zhenguan period, people combed the Submissive Bun. Also, Yang Yuhuan combed side buns and did the crying - makeup. There were also the Sorrow - coming Bun,…

Long before algorithms and virtual production dominated film sets, there existed a breed of storytellers who poured blood, sweat, and an unyielding love for martial arts into every frame. Among them stands Rigo (里戈), a name etched into the annals of kung fu cinema, and Yu Rongguang (于荣光), the actor-director whose voice now bridges past and future. In the heyday of classic kung fu films, Yu Rongguang was more than a performer - he was a custodian of tradition. Working alongside iconic directors and leading studios, he and his peers approached each project with the gravity of preserving a cultural legacy. “We staked our all to craft something unforgettable,” Yu reflects, his words carrying the weight of late-night rehearsals, bruised limbs, and the shared urgency of a generation determined to make kung fu not just a genre, but a global language. These were the days when every kick, every parry, and every emotional beat was honed through sheer physicality. Films like Once Upon a Time in China (黄飞鸿) and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (卧虎藏龙) had already planted kung fu’s flag on the world stage, but it was the unsung labor of artists like Yu - stunt coordinators, fight choreographers, and…

As June unfolds, the small screen is gearing up for a vibrant lineup of new dramas. On June 18, 2025, four fresh series officially announced their release dates - one ancient fantasy epic and three modern-themed shows, each boasting unique genres, star-studded casts, and plotlines designed to captivate diverse audiences. Let’s dive into what these titles have in store. 1. Cloud Heaven’s Summit (云天之上) Blends Myth and Rebellion Leading the charge is Cloud Heaven’s Summit, a much-talked-about ancient xianxia (immortal hero) fantasy drama that premiered on Tencent Video starting June 20. Directed by Cui Xiaoxiao (崔肖肖) and written by Chen Yongyi (陈泳夷), the series stars Xu Zhenzhen (徐轸轸) as the dual-identity protagonist Lu Anning/Yan Anning (路安凝／燕安宁) - a goddess bound by celestial fate - and Zhang Jingyun (张景昀 ) as the fearsome Demon Lord Ye Sha/Ling Cang (夜煞/凌沧). The narrative revolves around their fiery rivalry turning into an unlikely alliance. Forced into a cycle of conflict by predestined fates, the pair gradually awaken to their own agency, choosing to defy the heavens rather than submit. With soaring visuals, intricate world-building, and a central theme of resisting destiny, Cloud Heaven’s Summit aims to rekindle fans’ love for xianxia tropes while adding a…

Today is a special sharing session about cheongsam pankou buttons. In the process of making a cheongsam, these buttons are not only the finishing touch but also the starting point, just like the opening of a perfect work. A surprising or unexpected start can always spark more attention and appreciation later. Meanwhile, these buttons, which are linked to the essence of traditional Chinese culture, are an important way for us to rediscover Chinese characteristics. They are small, delicate, and a vivid symbol of the ancient people's aesthetics. In ancient times, our ancestors needed to use ropes or belts to tie knots or fasten buttons to fix the front of their clothes and keep warm during work. This kind of knot can be regarded as the earliest origin of the frog buttons. Later, with the development of dynasties, the knots also changed accordingly. For example, the "ribbon" in the Zhou Dynasty, the "silk ribbon" in the Northern and Southern Dynasties, the "silk knot ribbon" in the prosperous Tang Dynasty, and the "jade ring ribbon" in the Song Dynasty. These are all the step - by - step changes of the knot ribbons evolving into frog buttons. In the Ming and Qing…

Song Brocade. As one of China's traditional silk handicrafts, Song Brocade traces its origins to the Spring and Autumn period, took shape during the Song Dynasty, and flourished in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Alongside Nanjing Yun Brocade, Sichuan Shu Brocade, and Guangxi Zhuang Brocade, it is revered as one of China's Four Great Brocades. Historical records from the 'Song Shi Yu Fu Zhi' note that after the Southern Song court relocated south, the urgent demand for high - quality brocade for calligraphy, painting mounting, and clothing production made Suzhou the primary production hub. Hence, later generations invariably associate brocade with Song. The documentary 'The Splendid Tale' highlights how Suzhou's unique geographical advantages and abundant resources provided superior raw materials, earning Song Brocade the moniker 'Suzhou Song Brocade.' The local folk song 'Wu Ge' captures the regional essence: 'In April, the warmth spreads, and households bustle with silkworm rearing.' The 'Silk Weaving Illustrated' by Southern Song painter Lou Shu offers a glimpse into the entire production process from'silkworm bathing' to'silk weaving.' After its zenith during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, Song Brocade perfected its technique, featuring warp - faced twill as the base and weft - faced twill for…