In recent days, the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" program of Changning District in 2024 has been making its way into numerous primary and secondary schools, bringing the beauty of traditional Chinese culture to young students. This initiative aims to instill cultural confidence among the youth through various activities such as learning Kunqu opera poetry and appreciating the elegance of Shanghai-style qipaos that have spanned a century. At Weining Road Primary School, Zhao Jinyu, a professional promoter of Kunqu opera and successor of the Peng school's guimen dan (female role), engaged the students with her presentation titled "Endless Art, Endless Learning—Sowing the Seeds of Kunqu Opera." She demonstrated the art of Kunqu opera by performing He Zhizhang's poem "Song of the Willow" in the melodious Kunqu singing style. For many students, this was their first encounter with poetry being recited so melodiously, sparking a strong interest among them. During her presentation, Zhao Jinyu patiently taught the students various hand gestures used in Kunqu opera and led them in practicing dance movements while wearing flowing-sleeved costumes. "During Kunqu opera performances, imagination plays a crucial role. Coupled with the colorful Kunqu costumes, it feels like watching a moving painting," Zhao Jinyu explained. "This…

The recent completion of filming for the 28-episode historical comedy "Fragrant Festivities" marks a significant milestone, boasting a stellar cast and promising to shake up the Chinese drama market once again. At the heart of "Fragrant Festivities" is the tale of Ai Sixi (played by Li Jiaqi), the determined innkeeper who staunchly adheres to her belief in staying single. However, when pressured by local authorities cracking down on singlehood, she reluctantly marries Jing Kan (played by Ren Hao). Initially, their marriage is a matter of convenience for Ai Sixi, a way to gain favor and protection. They agree to maintain a hands-off relationship post-marriage, but fate intervenes as they find themselves embroiled in the power struggles of the local tea tribute family, Jing's household. The essence of a sitcom lies not only in its ensemble cast but also in its comedic timing and plot intricacies. "Fragrant Festivities" masterfully combines lively character dynamics with a continuous stream of humorous situations, ensuring a stable entertainment factor throughout its episodes. "Fragrant Festivities" leverages two major strengths that captivate viewers and keep them eagerly anticipating each episode. Firstly, the dynamic portrayal of a diverse ensemble cast brings depth and charm to the narrative. Each…

For Team Ninja, an open world may not be a necessary condition to achieve ultimate mastery, but it is an inevitable path they must tread. When the trailers for "Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty" and "Rise of the Ronin" appeared simultaneously at a conference, many were confused, not understanding why Team Ninja would produce two similar games in the same period. It wasn't until later, when it was revealed that "Rise of the Ronin" would be an open-world game, that people had their "aha" moment. After experiencing the game, I deeply felt the ambition contained in Team Ninja's open-world debut. However, this belated ambition, like the decision-makers in their story who find themselves in a great era, inevitably comes with regrets and compromises. If we compare Team Ninja's recent works, we can say that "Wo Long" inherited the mantle of the "Nioh" series, while "Rise of the Ronin" took a reverse path from "Nioh". This reverse path presupposes the use of the same secret techniques. And this source of all techniques, tightly held by Team Ninja, is their proud action gameplay foundation developed over many years. For players who have experienced works like "Nioh" and "Wo Long", getting into "Rise of…

A fascinating trend has emerged among young men and women who are embracing traditional Chinese cultural elements in their fashion choices. From T-shirts adorned with calligraphy, seals, and classical Chinese landscape paintings to the resurgence of traditional garments like qipao, hanfu, and horse-face skirts, these styles are gaining popularity among the youth. Elements such as embroidery, traditional buttons, and overlapping fronts are seamlessly integrated into daily wear, marking a significant shift in wardrobe choices among the younger generation. Cultural Renaissance in Fashion The phenomenon of "national style dressing" or "neo-Chinese style" has swiftly captivated the imagination of today's youth. It represents more than just a shift in fashion; it signifies a cultural renaissance rooted in confidence and a renewed appreciation for heritage. By incorporating traditional Chinese elements into their attire, young people are not only making a fashion statement but also expressing cultural pride and identity. Behind the transformation of young people's wardrobes lies a deeper societal shift towards cultural confidence and enhanced consumer awareness. These fashion choices reflect a desire among the youth to reconnect with their cultural roots and embrace traditions that resonate with contemporary sensibilities. Whether it's wearing a T-shirt with a classical Chinese motif or donning…

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…

Winsing Animation (咏声动漫), a prominent animation studio from Guangdong, has been making waves at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival! This year, they showcased their new Chinese animation "Into The Mortal World" (落凡尘)， hoping to spark more collaborations with global animation enthusiasts and promote Chinese animation internationally. Yan Bing, Vice President of Winsing Animation, excitedly said, "Our works are the best interpretation of Chinese stories!" In recent years, Chinese animations have been drawing inspiration from traditional culture and boldly innovating. During the MIFA 2024 (Annecy International Animation Film Market), several Guangdong-produced films were highlighted at the Guangdong-European Animation Film Promotion Conference, including the upcoming summer blockbuster "Into The Mortal World." This film has garnered widespread attention in overseas markets. "Into The Mortal World" is based on the Chinese folk legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, one of China's four great folktales. It tells the story of Jinfen, a descendant of the Weaver Girl, who descends to the mortal world to tame constellations and atone for her mother's sins. She unexpectedly allies with Xiaofan, a mortal girl seeking her mother in the divine realm. Yan Bing introduced, "This work brings the mythology of constellations to the big screen for…

On the evening of July 6th, the TV series "Second Encounter" made its debut on streaming platforms like Youku and iQiyi, marking the beginning of its highly anticipated premiere. Starring young actors Song Yiren and Guo Junchen, the series explores the intriguing premise of several youths who find themselves in an ancient setting after time-traveling, where they discover unexpected talents and embark on fantastical adventures. Song Yiren portrays the lead role in the series. In the modern world, her character is a dedicated athlete facing the brink of retirement due to injuries. Raised by a single mother who struggled after the early death of her husband, the protagonist's mother's greatest hope is for her daughter to excel in international sports competitions. However, tensions arise between them regarding the decision to retire. Adding to their challenges, a signboard from their family-owned barbecue restaurant falls on the daughter, triggering the pivotal moment that leads to her time-traveling experience. The narrative unfolds with humor and continuous laughter, establishing a light-hearted and enjoyable tone that characterizes the series as an entertaining and straightforward comedy-drama. Following her time-traveling experience, the protagonist finds herself transformed into the daughter of a wealthy merchant family in ancient times,…

The qipao, with its rich history and timeless appeal, embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern sophistication. This iconic garment has transcended centuries, evolving from traditional Chinese attire into a global symbol of elegance. However, not every woman feels equally comfortable or confident in a qipao. It takes a certain grace and demeanor to carry off this garment with poise and style. Understanding the Characteristics of an Ideal Qipao Wearer The allure of a qipao lies not only in its design but also in how it complements the wearer's physique and demeanor. Here are some characteristics that typically define an ideal qipao wearer: Graceful and Curvaceous Physique One of the defining features of a woman who suits a qipao is a gracefully curvaceous physique. The qipao is known for its form-fitting silhouette that accentuates the curves of the body, particularly the waist, hips, and legs. A woman with a slightly fuller figure, often described as having a "plump" or "curvy" appearance, can beautifully fill out the qipao's lines and curves, enhancing its elegance and charm. Full and Well-Defined Curves An ideal qipao wearer typically has well-defined curves in areas such as the face, waist, hips, and legs. These…

In the heat of summer, nothing soothes the soul quite like a refreshing bowl of green bean soup. From its humble beginnings as a simple remedy for summer malaise to its transformation into a diverse array of culinary delights, green bean soup holds a cherished place in the hearts and stomachs of people across China. Don't Skip Green Bean Soup: A Summer Essential Green bean soup isn't just a beverage; it's a seasonal ritual that signifies the arrival of summer. Simple yet effective, this concoction of boiled green beans and sugar is often dubbed the "national sweet nectar." Its preparation is straightforward: boil the beans until they burst, add sugar, and let it cool. The result? A drink that effortlessly dissipates the summer heat. Due to the abundant presence of polyphenols in green beans, oxidation can sometimes turn the soup into a reddish hue, influenced also by the alkalinity or acidity of the water used. However, this slight color variation does not detract from its refreshing taste. Across China, regional variations add distinctive flavors to this beloved soup. In Guangzhou, green beans are simmered into a creamy paste that seamlessly integrates with the broth, enhanced uniquely by strands of seaweed.…

As the scorching summer days arrive, it is the perfect time to enjoy the blooming lotus flowers. The appreciation of lotus flowers has always been a cherished activity. With the blooming of vast expanses of lotus flowers in Beijing, people are flocking to various spots to join in the admiration of these beautiful blooms. This article compiles 11 of the best places to enjoy lotus flowers in Beijing for you.   1-Yuanmingyuan Park Time: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Location: No. 28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing Ticket: 10 RMB Known as the imperial summer retreat, the Yuanmingyuan Park has a long history of lotus flowers. In the "Twelve Months of Yuanmingyuan Pleasures (June Cooling)," there are descriptions of boating to view the lotus flowers. Recently, the 29th Lotus Flower Festival has officially opened here, where you can see nearly 200 varieties of lotus flowers such as "Green Ru Yi," "Red Terrace Lotus," and "Pink Elf," showcasing a variety of colors. To enhance the lotus viewing experience, Changchun Garden offers water tours where you can sit on lotus-decorated boats, weaving through the lotus leaves for an immersive experience. Alongside the beautiful lotus scenery, there are also cultural activities such…

In today's fashion world, new Chinese-style dressing is gradually emerging as a prominent trend. This style of dressing, which combines elements of traditional Chinese culture with modern fashion concepts, not only showcases the unique charm of Chinese culture but also satisfies modern people's pursuit of individuality and cultural connotation. This article will delve into the rise, characteristics, and significance of new Chinese-style dressing in contemporary society. The Rise of New Chinese-Style Dressing The rise of new Chinese-style dressing is not accidental; it is the result of multiple factors. First, with China's rapid economic development and rising international status, people's sense of identity and pride in their native culture has been growing. New Chinese-style dressing, as a way of expressing cultural confidence, has gained popularity among an increasing number of young people. Second, the revival of traditional culture has provided rich sources of inspiration for new Chinese-style dressing. China has a long history and splendid culture, with elements such as Chinese characters, qipao, hanfu, and embroidery all possessing unique aesthetic value. Designers innovate and reinterpret these traditional elements, integrating them with modern fashion to create new Chinese-style clothing that has both traditional cultural heritage and modern aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the popularity…

In recent years, our fascination with museums has surged to unprecedented heights. What was once a niche interest has become a staple on every traveler's itinerary. But why have museums captured the hearts of so many? Museums offer a journey of endless exploration, where we, like voyagers beyond time and space, immerse ourselves in the aesthetics, passions, explorations, desires, creations, and beliefs that have shaped human civilization over millennia. Admiring the beauty and artistic essence left by countless lives, we marvel at humanity's incredible creativity and imagination. Professor Martin, a Cambridge scholar dedicated to studying Chinese culture, reflects with envy, "I most admire the Chinese people; their relics connect thousands of years of civilization seamlessly." Each museum artifact whispers silent stories, each pattern and motif bearing witness to history. Yet, despite the treasures museums hold, many visitors find it impossible to see everything in one visit. The Monumental "Museum Encyclopedia" and "National Treasure Guide" The recent release of the "Chinese Museum Encyclopedia: Top 10 Museums" has taken the country by storm, selling over 500,000 copies within the first three hours. This masterpiece spans 10 volumes, showcasing 220 iconic artifacts from 10 major museums, accompanied by 2,196 vivid illustrations. It comprehensively…

Summer in Tianjin is synonymous with happiness, especially once you've tasted the exquisite delights of shaved ice. From sweating profusely under the summer sun to enjoying the refreshing coolness, a bowl of shaved ice is just what you need to bridge that gap. Tianjin's Shaved Ice Scene: Bai Shui Shaved Ice and Soulful Toppings In Tianjin, many ice shops switch from selling candied chestnuts in winter to shaved ice in summer, demonstrating the adaptability of local flavors. Some even alternate between selling lamb in winter and shaved ice in summer, with certain shops operating only half the year. Each district in Tianjin boasts its own popular ice shop, usually tucked away in residential areas, offering budget-friendly bowls priced around 10-20 yuan each, enough to satisfy two people. The allure of Tianjin's shaved ice lies firstly in its "ice." There's a local saying, "sugar water frozen into ice," describing the fluffy texture of Bai Shui shaved ice made from old-fashioned ice machines, with dense, delicate ice crystals. What truly sets it apart are the toppings, meticulously crafted from fresh fruit pulps and freshly cut fruits: hawthorn, apricot, red bean, blueberry, mango, pineapple, cantaloupe, strawberry, mulberry, orange, lychee, durian... A bowl of…

The Terracotta Warriors, sleeping for more than 2,000 years, have awakened? A Qin opera opens the show, transporting us to the Loess Plateau. If they hadn't seen it with their own eyes, it would have been hard for many audience members to imagine seeing the Terracotta Warriors and Jewel Gem (A famous Chinese rapper) singing "Marching from the Army (从军行)" on the same stage in their lifetime. "The long clouds of the green sea darken the snowy mountains, and the lonely city looks at the Jade Gate Pass in the distance." Although the ancient tune has changed, the voice still moves people. The "AI Resurrection Summoning Technique" behind this performance is called EMO, which comes from Alibaba Tongyi Lab. With just a photo and an audio, EMO can turn a static image into an exquisite singing video, and accurately pinpoint the ups and downs, rhythm and staccato in the audio. In CCTV's "2024 China AI Ceremony", also based on EMO technology, the Northern Song Dynasty writer Su Shi was "resurrected" and sang "Prelude To Water Melody (水调歌头)" with Li Yugang on the same stage. "AI Su Shi's movements were simple and natural, as if he had traveled through time and…

Among the upcoming historical dramas, "Dashing Youth," starring Hou Minghao, He Yu, and Hu Lianxin, is highly anticipated by martial arts fans. With post-production completed and official approval for release secured, the drama recently unveiled its first trailer and has a tentative premiere date set for mid to late July. This 40-episode series is poised to be a major contender in the summer viewing season for a popular streaming platform. "Dashing Youth" follows the growth of two young protagonists, Baili Dongjun and Ye Dingzhi, from childhood friends to adversaries, ultimately resolving their misunderstandings and grudges to assume their responsibilities. Hou Minghao plays Baili Dongjun, the youngest son of the Marquis of the West. Despite his passion for brewing wine, he is compelled to train in martial arts under the guidance of the top martial artist, Li Changsheng. Baili Dongjun's character arc mirrors that of Xu Fengnian from "Sword Snow Stride," transitioning from reluctance to embracing his responsibilities. He evolves from a boy aiming to fulfill a promise to his friend into a hero leading warriors to defend against invaders, offering a compelling transformation. He Yu's character, Ye Dingzhi, has a tragic past and is manipulated by others due to his…

Sanya, often dubbed the "Hawaii of the East," is renowned as a tourist hotspot. Yet, its reputation as a "New Paradise for Tropical Fruits" remains relatively understated. This coastal city boasts a year-round production of a diverse array of tropical fruits, promising an endless feast for fruit enthusiasts. Sanya's Mango Magic One of the highlights of Sanya's fruit scene is undoubtedly the mango. The city's warm climate, with an average annual temperature of 25.5°C, is perfect for mango cultivation. This favorable environment means that mangoes are available throughout the year, making "mango freedom" a reality for locals and visitors alike. Sanya boasts a variety of mango types, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. The main varieties include Tainong No. 1, Gui Fei (Golden Dragon), Jin Huang, Australian Mangoes, and Ivory Mangoes. Tainong No. 1, originally from Taiwan, is known for its round shape, golden color, and sweet, fragrant flesh. Gui Fei mangoes are large, with a thin seed and a rich, sweet flavor that melts in your mouth. Jin Huang mangoes, which grow at higher altitudes, are prized for their thin seed and thick, smooth flesh, offering one of the highest sugar contents among mangoes. The variety does…

As the highly contested field of costume dramas, this summer season has seen "Lost You Forever Season 2" take an early lead. Last year, "Lost You Forever" dominated the summer lineup, not only securing the highest market share but also launching several newcomers to stardom. This success is a major reason why "Lost You Forever Season 2" has generated considerable buzz even before airing. Before its premiere, "Lost You Forever Season 2" garnered over 9.58 million reservations on Tencent Video, ranking first among upcoming dramas. Within three hours of its release, it reached a popularity index of 28,000 on the platform. According to data, "Lost You Forever Season 2" topped the daily charts for full-episode viewership on its debut day. From a commercial perspective, having numerous advertisements is a hallmark of a hit web drama, and "Lost You Forever Season 2" excels in this area. Each episode features 11 advertisements. According to user-compiled data, "Lost You Forever Season 2" boasts one chief sponsor, five partners, and 70 co-branded business affiliations, setting a new record for advertisement sponsorship in television premieres. Similar to "Joy of Life 2," the premiere of "Lost You Forever Season 2" on Tencent Video also included a…

In the realm of Chinese late-night snacks, barbecue reigns supreme with its diverse regional variations. From the smoky Northeastern skewers to the Yunnan Handful of Barbecue (把把烧) and the robust Western Sichuan hotpot grills, each type of barbecue boasts its own techniques and ingredients. However, amidst this flavorful landscape, there's one standout exception: Xinjiang. Here, barbecue is synonymous with one thing — lamb. Surrounded by prized sheep, Xinjiang has no reason to grill anything else. However, if someone talks about Xinjiang lamb skewers, they're either a local or running a non-local establishment. After reading through the whole article, you will find out why. The Art of Xinjiang Barbecue Ingredients Xinjiang's dominance in barbecue owes much to its natural bounty of local ingredients, especially its lamb. At most barbecue stalls here, the meat is threaded on-site. Picture stainless steel basins brimming with freshly cut chunks of lamb, a mosaic of red and white, fat and lean. Larger stalls have designated skewers, while smaller ones wait for the grill master's free moment for self-threading. For cost-effective vendors, the sequence often alternates between lean and fatty cuts, ensuring each skewer is substantial with five meaty chunks. White lamb fat is a natural oil…

Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Toast Sichuan peppercorns and salt over medium heat for about a minute or two until the fragrance of the peppercorns is released, then set aside to cool. In northern China, the method for making pepper salt involves frying Sichuan peppercorns until crispy, grinding them into powder, and mixing them with fine salt. This mixture is typically used as a seasoning for fried chicken or other fried meats. It can be added to the batter of fried foods or sprinkled over fried foods after cooking. Pepper salt is also used in various types of bread, such as pancakes and beef tongue pancakes. It can also be used for barbecuing. Main Ingredients The main ingredients of pepper salt are Sichuan peppercorn powder and salt. Pepper salt is essentially a culinary seasoning consisting mainly of Sichuan peppercorns and salt. To prepare pepper salt, Sichuan peppercorns and salt are mixed together and briefly fried in a pan until fragrant, then removed and allowed to cool before grinding. Pepper salt has a fragrant aroma with a slightly pungent odor when smelled up close.…

In the realm of Chinese cuisine, few ingredients evoke as much nostalgia and debate as pork lard. Used liberally in dishes ranging from stir-fries to noodles, its addition can elevate flavors to a sublime level. In times of scarcity, a pot of rendered pork fat was considered a culinary treasure, enhancing meals with its rich aroma and texture. However, as dietary habits evolve and health consciousness rises, pork lard has faced scrutiny. Modern households increasingly opt for vegetable oils over animal fats, fearing that prolonged consumption of pork lard may contribute to cardiovascular diseases. The Allure of Pork Lard: Flavor and Nutrition Pork lard, the most common animal fat in Chinese kitchens, owes much of its appeal to its distinctive flavor profile. According to senior food inspector Wang Sulu, the unique aroma of pork lard stems from trace proteins and breakdown products of glycerides. Moreover, pork lard contains over 40% saturated fatty acids, which meld with oils, starches, and fibers during cooking, imparting dishes with a crispy, moist, and smooth texture. But does pork lard offer any nutritional benefits amidst its culinary charm? Research by cardiovascular laboratory technician Fu Shufang highlights that pork lard is rich in essential nutrients such…