On December 1st, in celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the newly opened Palace Museum Cultural Integration Center launched with great fanfare. The center, a collaboration between the Palace Museum and the China Disabled Persons' Federation, is designed to promote cultural heritage and innovation while providing an inclusive, accessible space for all. It offers a unique blend of art, history, and social empowerment—integrating cultural preservation with accessibility. A central highlight of the launch was the showcase of handcrafted products from Hunan's (湖南) "Beautiful Workshop" (美丽工坊), a social enterprise initiative aimed at supporting disabled individuals through craft. Located within the Museum's creative retail zone, these crafts—ranging from intricate embroidery to delicate knotting and yarn weaving—captured the attention of visitors. Among the most celebrated items was a collaboration between the Palace Museum and "Beautiful Workshop," the "Public Welfare Red Scarf," which combines fashion with philanthropy. For every scarf sold, 10% of the proceeds are donated to the Hunan Disabled Persons' Welfare Foundation. The "Beautiful Workshop" initiative, which has been gaining momentum, reflects Hunan's broader commitment to enhancing social inclusion and economic empowerment for disabled individuals, particularly women. Through collaborations like this, Hunan's disabled artisans are gaining national recognition, showcasing their…

On the morning of December 3rd, visitors to the National Museum of China (NMC) in Beijing were greeted by long lines well before 8:30 AM. Among the eager crowd, many were there for the museum's popular cultural merchandise: a refrigerator magnet modeled after the "Phoenix Crown," a symbol of imperial China. The product, inspired by the "Empress Dowager Phoenix Crown" from the Ming Dynasty, quickly became a sensation, selling over 530,000 units by late November. What makes this seemingly simple souvenir so special is its craftsmanship. The large and intricate crown design required detailed handwork, with beads meticulously strung one by one. As NMC's Deputy Director of Operations, Liao Fei (廖飞), explained, the magnet's popularity is a testament not just to the ingenuity of modern design but also to the appeal of traditional Chinese culture. For many visitors, the magnet serves as an introduction to the deeper stories embedded in China's vast cultural history. "We hope that people who are drawn to our cultural products will visit our exhibits and develop a greater appreciation for Chinese artifacts," said Liao. The success of the Phoenix Crown magnet shows that cultural creativity can spark curiosity and lead to more meaningful engagement with…

In the heart of Bijie (毕节), a city in Guizhou Province, the transformation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is rapidly taking place. From bustling cultural workshops to innovative experiences in schools and tourism, Bijie is proving that preserving ancient traditions can be a powerful tool for modern development. A mix of digital preservation, community engagement, and creative partnerships has led to the revitalization of traditional arts like Miao (苗族) embroidery, Yi (彝族) lacquerware, and the Miao Lusheng dance (苗族芦笙舞), creating a cultural phenomenon that benefits both the local community and the wider world. The city's success story is reflected in its increasing number of non-heritage workshops, experience spaces, and cultural products. With 77 ICH workshops and 47 experience spaces already established, Bijie is setting a powerful example of how to integrate traditional crafts into modern life. This hands-on approach has attracted both domestic and international tourists eager to witness the creativity and artistry of Bijie's heritage. Among the standout moments of this transformation was a recent visit by dozens of Asia-Pacific journalists to the Miao Embroidery and Batik Workshop in Huawu Village. Mario Pasca, a reporter from Indonesia National Radio, marveled at the intricate patterns and techniques of Miao embroidery,…

1. Nanjiao Park (南郊公园) If you’re visiting Chengdu and seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, Nanjiao Park is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked. Situated at 235 Wuhouci Street in Wuhou District, this park has a rich history. It was built in 1943 as the burial site for Liu Xiang (刘湘). However, far from being somber, Nanjiao Park exudes a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal place for relaxation and photography. The park is an elegant mix of classical Chinese garden elements: winding streams, quaint pavilions, and bamboo forests enveloped by striking red walls. This creates an atmosphere that is both serene and aesthetically pleasing. The park’s spacious layout allows for moments of solitude amidst nature, offering visitors a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its serene beauty and calm environment, Nanjiao Park is perfect for those seeking to capture Chengdu’s traditional charm in a photo. 2. Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) No trip to Chengdu would be complete without visiting Wuhou Shrine, located at 231 Wuhouci Street in the city’s Wuhou District. Dedicated to Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮), the legendary military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, Wuhou Shrine…

Hefei (合肥), the capital city of Anhui Province, has seen an unexpected yet vibrant cultural movement emerge—international students in local universities are embracing China's rich traditions and intangible cultural heritage (ICH). This movement, which has taken root across several universities, highlights a growing fascination with Chinese art, history, and cultural practices among the city's international student body. Hefei's universities host nearly 3,000 international students from various countries. While many come to study academic subjects, a significant number have found themselves captivated by the diverse and colorful world of Chinese traditional culture. A wide array of courses and hands-on experiences in non-material heritage has drawn these students into China's cultural fold, offering them an opportunity to connect with something far beyond textbooks and lectures. With an increasing focus on fostering cross-cultural understanding, these institutions have tailored educational programs to introduce international students to the country's most cherished cultural practices, from paper cutting to traditional Chinese medicine. The "Non-heritage Cultural Boom" in Hefei has now become an integral part of the university experience, making China's living traditions more accessible and relatable to a global audience. Learning Through Experience In the classroom and beyond, Hefei's universities have been offering a rich curriculum of…

The Intricacies of Visual Design and Symbolism The 3D animated series The Island of Siliang (眷思量) has captured the attention of audiences not only with its compelling storyline but also through its meticulous attention to visual details, bringing to life an intricate world steeped in fantasy and ancient aesthetics. Its characters' costumes, architecture, and environments all blend traditional Chinese art forms with modern animation techniques, creating an immersive and beautiful spectacle that stands out in a genre often dominated by action-packed, fast-paced narratives. At the heart of the visual appeal is the stunning use of gongbi (工笔) painting styles in the characters' costumes, where each delicate fold and vibrant color reflects the character's inner world. The animation's distinct aesthetic feels like a dreamlike blend of historical fantasy and realism, where the costumes are not just clothes, but living expressions of the characters’ personalities and emotions. The feminine elegance of the character Tuli (屠丽), who is often draped in soft pink hues, communicates her warmth and purity, while the vibrant colors and flowing patterns of other characters enhance their dynamic qualities. In addition to the visual allure of the costumes, the world-building of The Island of Siliang introduces a social structure…

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…

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…

Follow Your Heart (颜心记) stands out not only for its artful storytelling but also for its meticulous world-building, creating a setting where gender roles, power dynamics, and personal challenges are both modern and traditional. The series does not take a heavy-handed approach to equality; instead, it seamlessly integrates a progressive ethos into the story's core. Unlike many female-led dramas that lean heavily on tropes for shock value, "Follow Your Heart" explores gender equality with subtlety and respect. The narrative presents a fictional world where both women and men navigate complex societal roles. Characters like Jiang Zhiyi (江芷仪), who rises to a leadership role traditionally reserved for male heirs, exemplify a world in flux, one that promises progress but has yet to break all traditional barriers. In this universe, women manage businesses, lead families, and gain recognition for intellect and strength, suggesting that growth is both inevitable and admirable. The respectful treatment of female empowerment and the nuanced handling of traditional expectations make this setting as thought-provoking as it is engaging. The “idealization” of this world is thus grounded in possibility rather than perfection. For instance, while women achieve prominence in various fields, remnants of older biases persist—such as the social…

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…

At the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, held in Zhuhai (珠海), Guangdong, from November 12th to the 14th, all eyes were on two remarkable figures: Sergey Bogdan, a legendary Russian test pilot, and the Su-57, Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter, making its first appearance in China. The event marked an important milestone in the growing defense and aerospace cooperation between China and Russia, as the advanced Su-57 fighter jet performed in front of an eager crowd. The presence of the Su-57 and its pilot, Sergey Bogdan, spoke volumes about the deepening military ties between the two nations. Following a successful flight demonstration, the 62-year-old pilot took to the ground for a rare meet-and-greet with aviation enthusiasts and the media. He shared his views on the significance of the Su-57's debut in China, highlighting the trust that exists between the two countries. A Historic Debut This year's Zhuhai AirshSu-57 is not just another display of cutting-edge military technology—it marked a significant moment in China-Russia relations. The Su-57, a jet in the early stages of deployment within Russia's military, took center stage at the airshow, a testament to the trust and camaraderie between China and Russia. This was the first time…

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…

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…

On November 4th, 2024, at 1:24 AM Beijing time, the Shenzhou 18 crew, consisting of astronauts Ye Guangfu (叶光富), Li Cong (李聪), and Li Guangsu (李广苏), successfully re-entered Earth's atmosphere after 192 days aboard China's Tiangong (天宫) space station. During their mission, the astronauts completed two spacewalks and set a new record for the longest single spacewalk by a Chinese astronaut. However, beyond the astronauts' remarkable achievements in space, the mission's success depended heavily on the cutting-edge technology developed by the Xi'an Branch of the China Aerospace Corporation (CASC), which ensured the crew's safe return. This technology provided vital communication, navigation, and emergency protocols, making the astronauts' journey back to Earth as secure as possible. One of the key components was the upgraded relay terminal, which established a crucial communication link between the spacecraft and mission control. This "space highway" ensured that vital data, including health metrics and mission status, were transmitted smoothly during the return journey. The relay system bridges the spacecraft and Earth-based systems, allowing constant monitoring and communication. Without this reliable communication link, the risks associated with the crew's return would have been far more significant. This real-time exchange of information was particularly critical in monitoring the…

In recent years, Chinese pop culture has gained significant international attention, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. From video games and web novels to music, movies, and fashion, China's cultural products are increasingly making waves across the globe. This phenomenon is driven by a creative fusion of modern and traditional elements bolstered by the influence of digital platforms and social media. As Chinese content continues to grow in popularity overseas, it's not just a reflection of the country's artistic achievements but also a strategic expansion of its cultural soft power. A New Cultural Renaissance Chinese pop culture's success on the world stage can be attributed to the creative way traditional Chinese elements are integrated with modern technologies and aesthetics. This blending of old and new appeals to audiences within and outside China, especially in countries with shared cultural histories. For instance, video games like "Black Myth: Wukong (黑神话：悟空)" have captured the imaginations of international audiences. Developed by Chinese company Game Science, the game draws heavily on the Chinese classic "Journey to the West (西游记)", blending mythological storytelling with cutting-edge gaming technology. The game's release generated immediate global interest, topping sales charts in multiple countries, including the UK and the US.…

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…

Once viewed as a niche subculture, Esports has firmly cemented itself in the global spotlight in recent years. With competitive gaming now regarded as a professional pursuit, the lives of esports athletes are increasingly drawing attention. From rigorous training schedules to the intense pressure of international competitions, these players are redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern world. The recent documentary "One Battle, All the Way (一竞到底)" shines a light on the lives of top players, offering an intimate look into their world. The Making of a Champion Released in October 2023, "One Battle, All the Way" is the first-ever documentary to focus on competitive esports in China, explicitly highlighting the esports discipline of "Peacekeeper Elite", a popular mobile game that became an official event at the 2022 Asian Games. Directed by Yang Fan, the documentary chronicles the journey of three professional players—Zhu Bocheng (朱伯丞) (Pararboy), Feng Shujie (冯姝杰) (Suk), and Xu Zhuohang (徐舟航) (77H)—who represent the cutting-edge of competitive mobile gaming. The documentary's choice of players is no accident. Zhu Bocheng, who led the "Peacekeeper Elite" team to a gold medal at the Asian Games, epitomizes the excellence esports athletes strive for. Feng Shujie, a…

Longan (龙眼), often called the “jewel among fruits,” has captivated the hearts and taste buds of people in China for over two thousand years. With a rich history and a revered status in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), longan offers more than just a sweet flavor—it embodies a treasure trove of cultural significance and health benefits. A Symbol of Joy: The Tale of Lin Yutang (林语堂) and Longan Tea Longan's role in cultural traditions and daily life runs deep. One charming story features the renowned Chinese scholar and writer Lin Yutang. When Lin married Liao Cuifeng (廖翠凤), the daughter of a wealthy Xiamen businessman, he followed the local custom of drinking a bowl of longan tea served by the bride. This ritual symbolized auspicious blessings for the newlyweds. While most grooms would sip the tea politely, Lin Yutang drank the entire bowl with gusto and even devoured the longan fruit, savoring every morsel. His enthusiasm wasn’t surprising—longan is not only delicious but also believed to soothe the heart and calm the spirit, an ideal remedy for an intellectual like Lin, often immersed in strenuous writing and deep contemplation. Longan in Traditional Chinese Medicine In TCM, the gentle yet powerful properties of…