In today's fiercely competitive film and television landscape, only a rare few actors manage to level up across all fronts—critical acclaim, commercial value, and industry influence. Among the standout talents of the post-90s generation, Bai Lu has emerged as a model of multi-dimensional growth, propelled by the positive feedback loop between her on-screen performances and market response. As the summer 2025 season kicked off, Bai Lu's costume fantasy drama The Feud landed with impact. Not only did it shoot straight to the top of DeTavin's weekly rankings for historical dramas, but it also cemented her status as the only female lead on iQIYI's platform to headline two shows that surpassed the coveted 10,000 popularity index. What makes The Feud's success even more impressive is that it didn't rely on a big-name IP. Instead, it captured viewers with a tightly written original script and an unconventional, anti-cliché narrative. As the plot deepened, audience engagement soared—within just nine days of release, pop-up comment interactions exceeded 100 million, and the DeTavin buzz index peaked at 2.5, pushing the show past the 10,000 heat threshold. At the heart of this breakout was Bai Lu's portrayal of Li Qingyue (also known as Hua Ruyue). Her…

A playful wink, a gust of salt-kissed wind, and a single fresh blossom tucked into flowing dark hair – this seemingly simple moment, captured on the sun-drenched Fujian coast, has propelled Yu Shuxin (虞书欣) into the social media stratosphere. Far from the typical glamorous studio shoot, these candid behind-the-scenes glimpses from the set of her upcoming drama, Road To Success (灿如繁星), showcase a different kind of star power: effortless, authentic, and deeply connected to its breathtaking seaside setting. Yu Shuxin, shedding elaborate costumes for a breezy white dress, transforms the shoreline into her runway, proving that true radiance often blooms from unadorned simplicity and genuine joy. Her spontaneous interaction with the camera, particularly the now-iconic wink, resonates not just as celebrity charm, but as a pure expression of delight in the moment, instantly captivating audiences and setting the internet ablaze with anticipation for the drama itself. Seaside Style Ditching ostentatious luxury, Yu Shuxin’s coastal look for Road To Success is a masterclass in understated elegance. Her attire, a fluid white dress seemingly washed in the hues of the ocean itself, speaks of comfort and ease. The real magic, however, rests literally on her head: a single, delicate wildflower plucked from…

The runway pulsed with energy at Wuhan's Red T Fashion District on July 5th. Nearly one hundred young designers from universities across mainland China and Taiwan transformed fabric into dialogue, showcasing 38 finalist collections for the Fourth Golden Clothes Award. This event, part of the 19th Hubei-Wuhan Taiwan Week, became more than a competition—it evolved into a vibrant conversation about shared heritage and contemporary vision. Models moved beneath lights not just displaying garments, but carrying stories woven from ancient motifs and futuristic textiles, revealing how a new generation interprets identity through cloth and craft. Silk Roads Redrawn Layers of hand-dyed indigo flowed like mountain mist down the runway. One designer merged digital-printed Song Dynasty landscapes with biodegradable synthetics, creating gowns where past and future coexisted seamlessly. Another finalist reimagined Miao embroidery techniques using recycled thread, patterning jackets with geometric phoenixes traditionally stitched over months, now achieved with innovative speed without sacrificing artistry. The tactile richness of handwork met engineered fabrics unexpectedly. A collection from Taiwan featured modular clothing using magnetic Han-style closures, allowing wearers to reconfigure silhouettes instantly. This practical innovation honored traditional fastening methods while embracing adaptability for modern life. Judges noted how entrants sourced inspiration from regional textile…

In a workshop in Jiangxi, Wu Wanjing (吴婉菁) places a piece of ramie fabric embroidered with blue-and-white porcelain patterns onto a LABUBU doll. This moment captures more than a craftsperson at work; it embodies a deliberate conversation between millennium-old heritage and global pop culture. Xiabu embroidery, rooted in the unique texture of handwoven ramie cloth (often called "China Grass"), thrives not through rigid preservation, but through dynamic reinvention. Once adorning baby bonnets and household items carrying familial blessings, its distinct "transparent stitching" technique, mimicking the flow of ink wash paintings, now finds unexpected canvases. Museums safeguard its history, while designers and students actively reinterpret its language for contemporary eyes and wardrobes, proving this resilient textile art is far from frozen in time. Fabric with Character Ramie cloth possesses an inherent, irregular texture formed by its handwoven warp and weft threads. Each piece is genuinely unique, bearing subtle variations from the artisan's touch. This distinctive surface posed a significant creative challenge: traditional dense embroidery methods would completely obscure the cloth's natural beauty and tactile quality. Preservation demanded innovation. The solution emerged in the form of the "transparent void stitch," a technique specifically developed for Xiabu embroidery. This method allows silk threads…

New York City, a global epicenter of coffee culture dominated by familiar green aprons, has a bold new contender. On June 30th, 2025, Luckin Coffee, China’s coffee giant, quietly opened its first two U.S. stores in Manhattan. Nestled near NYU’s Washington Square and in bustling Midtown, these sleek "PICK UP" shops immediately drew curious crowds. Forget simple translations; Luckin’s arrival marks a deliberate plunge into America's deep coffee waters, promising high quality, digital convenience, and famously competitive prices. But the real test lies not in strategy documents, but in the hands – and taste buds – of New Yorkers grabbing their first cups. First Sips: Surprise & Sweetness Initial reactions from American customers reveal intrigue and pleasant surprises, though not always the expected coffee punch. Alice Tecotzky, reporting for Business Insider, ventured in expecting coffee. Her Pineapple Cold Brew, however, tasted distinctly "like pineapple juice with pulp," a flavor she found pleasant but unexpected. Shaking it didn't fundamentally alter the profile. Her "Sunny Breeze" drink, blending blood orange and grapefruit, earned higher marks for its refreshing, tangy sweetness – though deemed more suitable for an afternoon pick-me-up than a morning caffeine fix. Others embraced the novelty. Bruce Leon, 53, appreciated…

A unique symphony of cultures unfolded recently in the lush landscapes of Shanghai's Jinshan district, as students from Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam, Russia, South Korea, Mongolia, Nigeria, and China embarked on a journey challenging conventional perceptions of rural life. Organized by the Communist Youth League of Jinshan District and Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), this immersive experience revealed a dynamic China where ancient traditions harmonize with cutting-edge innovation and global community thrives. Beyond the picturesque lotus ponds and waterways, these young explorers discovered a countryside pulsating with unexpected energy and opportunity, forging connections that transcended national borders through shared wonder and participation. Digital Nomads, Rural Roots Stepping into the Caojing Digital Nomad International Village, the international visitors encountered a startling fusion of pastoral beauty and modern work culture. They navigated serene paths along the shimmering Reservoir Central River, wandered through the lotus-filled Ouyu Park, and discovered professionals from across the globe working in a library ingeniously repurposed from abandoned buildings. "Here, the charm of the Jiangnan watertown coexists with pioneering lifestyles and community structures. Advanced infrastructure blends seamlessly with idyllic rural scenery, completely overturning my previous image of the Chinese countryside," remarked Bian Zhiyuan, a student from South Korea . This…

A quiet revolution echoes across continents. Not through amplifiers or digital streams, but through the breath moving across clay, the fingers dancing on silk strings, the vibrations resonating from bamboo. From America to Iran, France to China, individuals far removed from these instruments' origins are dedicating years to mastering their complexities. What draws them to the soulful cry of the xun, the contemplative whisper of the xiao, the philosophical depth of the guqin, or the bright clarity of the dizi? Their journeys reveal more than musical curiosity; they uncover pathways to cultural understanding, personal discipline, and unexpected creative dialogues spanning centuries and civilizations. Earth's Voice Lucas, an American content creator, holds an ancient xun, its bulbous clay form etched with subtle patterns. He doesn't merely play it; he dissects its physics for a global TikTok audience. Demonstrating airflow techniques, contrasting its haunting, hollow tones with the brighter timbre of a dizi, he plays a fluid melody. His fascination is palpable. Viewers resonate, sharing their own encounters with the enigmatic vessel – one likened its sound to blowing across a glass bottle's rim, another admired its tactile artistry. Lucas transforms an obscure artifact into something tangible and intriguing, proving the instrument’s…

In the ancient - costumed TV drama The Legend of Zanghai, is there a story behind Xiao Zhan's scarf headgear? Does it seem to represent the typical outfit of a poor scholar in old - fashioned TV dramas? Comparing the picture on the left where he isn't wearing the scarf, he does seem more innocent. First, let me conclude. This is an ancient handkerchief, a square piece of cloth. You wrap it around your head with two corners on the outside to secure it. Both men and women often used it to cover their heads. The purpose is the same as using a hairband to hold back loose hair today, just to keep the hair in place and make the appearance neater. This way of wrapping the head with a scarf has appeared throughout the dynasties and was mostly used by the common people. It could be made from scraps of clothing. However, don't look down on the scarf headgear. It's a 'veteran' among head - scarf accessories. Before the Wei and Jin Dynasties, both men and women could wrap their heads with scarves, with men using it more often. One type is called 'Zi Cuo' (缁撮), which is the…

Song Zuer's eyebrows are truly iconic! In ancient - costume TV dramas, her Han - style makeup and styling as Xiao Qiao have once again won praise from netizens. Chinese classical eyebrow shapes are incredibly appealing! Let me first state that this kind of eyebrow shape is called a "curved eyebrow" in ancient times. It's one of the traditional eyebrow shapes that enjoyed the longest popularity in ancient China. The main features of the curved eyebrow are thick at the brow head and thin at the brow tail. The brow head gently rises to the brow peak and then smoothly falls. The boundary of the eyebrow shape is indistinct, and the color is like a stroke of ink, lighter at the brow head and darker at the brow tail, exuding a sense of fragility. Some netizens dug out Song Zuer's childhood look as Nezha, which also had thick curved eyebrows. They joked that even her eyebrows have grown proportionally! Now, about curved eyebrows, it's a general term. Any eyebrows with a curve can be called "curved eyebrows". Logically, the classic willow eyebrows in history are also a type of curved eyebrows. The willow eyebrows are thinner and longer than the…

A single red carpet moment at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Film Festival ignited an unprecedented cultural phenomenon. Chinese actress Yang Mi’s choice to wear a Jin Dynasty "Zhu Jie Yi" (Bamboo-Pleat Garment) didn’t just captivate fashion critics; it triggered a seismic shift in consumer behavior and revitalized a niche traditional craft. Within 48 hours, sales for the previously obscure Hanfu brand Ting Lan Song exploded from 50 monthly orders to over 35,000, forcing the small workshop to implement a 45-day pre-order system. This event transcends celebrity endorsement—it represents a pivotal case study in how cultural heritage can explosively intersect with modern influence, democratizing ancient aesthetics for contemporary life. Red Carpet Revolution Yang Mi’s ensemble fused meticulous historical accuracy with effortless modernity. Based on artifacts from the China National Silk Museum, the garment featured signature bamboo-stripe patterns and expansive sleeves characteristic of Wei-Jin aesthetics. Yet her styling—pairing it with a plain white tee, black trousers, and minimalist sneakers—transformed academic reconstruction into street-ready elegance. This deliberate fusion shattered perceptions of Hanfu as impractical costume, proving its adaptability for everyday wear. The visual impact resonated instantly. Paparazzi shots of Yang Mi during festival rehearsals, her hair loosely styled and face partially masked, radiated…

When the monumental folk painting Fujian’s Jubilant Song (3.23m × 2.51m) debuted at China’s inaugural Rural Art Exhibition, its crimson hues and dynamic scenes—from ancient Tulou buildings to lion dances—captured the essence of Fujian’s spirit. Created by seven artists from Zhangping, this work symbolizes the revival of a 400-year-old tradition nearly lost to urbanization. Wu Yuhuan (吴玉环), a master painter, describes the style: "Bold colors, whimsical figures, and auspicious themes that radiate sincerity." Once fading, Zhangping’s folk art now thrives through innovation and community effort. Roots in Resilience Zhangping’s painting legacy began in Xin’qiao Township during the Ming-Qing transition. Local artisans blended folk customs with daily life observations, developing a distinct aesthetic recognized as Fujian’s intangible cultural heritage. By the 1980s, "The Zhangping Phenomenon" emerged—a golden era where artists won national awards for works bursting with rural vitality. Yet by the 2000s, economic pressures drove painters toward commercial replica art. Chen Yongfeng (陈永凤), director of Zhangping Art Museum, recalls, "The exodus left villages silent. We feared the tradition would vanish." The 2010 founding of Zhangping Folk Painting Academy reversed this decline. Veteran artists like Wu Yuhuan and Liu Wenying (刘文英) led free workshops, attracting teachers, farmers, and artisans. Lan Yanping,…

The warm June breeze carried a whisper of salt from the Bohai Sea as delegates stepped into a realm where time folded. Inside the Davos Cultural Night Pavilion, the vibrant pulse of global economics softened, replaced by the quiet authority of Chinese aesthetic philosophy. Here, under a ceiling washed in oceanic blues—a hue mirroring both Tianjin’s maritime soul and the infinite sky—an intricate dialogue unfolded. It wasn’t spoken in financial forecasts or policy debates, but through strokes of porcelain brushes, the geometry of steamed dough, and petals arranged with cosmological precision. Tianjin, a city often eclipsed by its neighbors, emerged not just as a host, but as a curator of cultural gravity, proving tradition isn’t static; it’s a living conversation between centuries. Culinary Brushstrokes Tiny, flaky pastries shaped like blooming roses captivated British delegate Ramy Shelbaya. "A delicate sweetness, familiar yet entirely new," he marveled, holding a Xianghe Bobo shortbread. This centuries-old craft, passed down through generations, carried the warmth of home—both his own in England and the Tianjin kitchens where rose petals are folded into dough like secrets. Nearby, the air steamed with ambition. Chef Dong Lei (东磊) of Weidingxuan deftly pleated translucent wrappers into floral pouches, revealing jewel-toned…

In a defining moment on July 4th's episode of China's blockbuster variety show Keep Running, Li Yunrui didn't just leap across a 7-meter gap – he vaulted into a new stratosphere of fame. Perched on a swing high above a swimming pool, the actor-athlete released his grip at the perfect apex, landing flawlessly on the distant mat. The feat, captured in countless viral clips and met with stunned reactions from co-stars like Zheng Kai and Fan Chengcheng, sent social media into overdrive, amassing over 400 million engagements overnight. This gravity-defying jump wasn't merely a stunt; it crystallized a trajectory years in the making, showcasing the potent blend of physical prowess, disciplined preparation, and magnetic screen presence that defines his burgeoning career. As audiences marveled at his "legendary core strength," Li was simultaneously orchestrating another kind of leap: a commanding sweep across the commercial landscape and a deepening commitment to his craft, all while building fervent anticipation for his upcoming historical drama, Feast Encounter in Yong'an (宴遇永安). The Athletic Engine Li Yunrui's 7-meter swing jump wasn't an isolated flash of brilliance; it was the latest eruption of a long-simmering athletic volcano. Viewers familiar with his past instantly recalled his dominance at…

The air in Jiangyou, Sichuan, vibrates with recited verses as a nine-year-old’s clear voice delivers Li Bai’s "Quiet Night Thoughts." This simple recitation, radiating pure emotion, captures the essence of the "Li Bai Calls You for a Poetry Showdown" festival unfolding in the great poet’s birthplace. Orchestrated by the China Media Group under guidance from the Chinese Poetry Association and Jiangyou’s Municipal Party Committee Propaganda Department, this grand celebration transcends mere competition. It’s a nationwide awakening to classical poetry’s enduring power, inviting everyone—from seasoned scholars to curious children—to rediscover the beauty of Tang Dynasty verse within Jiangyou’s deeply poetic landscape. The festival weaves together fierce poetic challenges, creative expression, and immersive cultural tourism, proving Li Bai’s spirit is very much alive in modern China. Where Poetry Lives Jiangyou’s Li Bai Memorial, the festival’s vibrant heart, buzzes from dawn. Long queues form early, gathering silver-haired couples, eager children, delivery riders in uniform, sanitation workers, and Hanfu-clad youth. They debate Li Bai’s meter and imagery, their shared passion transforming the space into a living library of verse, the very air thick with literary anticipation. Inside, the energy crescendos. Participants dive into intense "Flower Passing Challenges", battling wits using keywords like "moon" or…

International voices echo through Yantai's sun-drenched valleys, drawn by the allure of its burgeoning wine culture. From July 2nd to 4th, a diverse cohort of global social media influencers and cultural enthusiasts descended upon Shandong's coastal gem, invited by China Daily, the Yantai Municipal Publicity Department, and the Commerce Bureau. Their mission: to experience firsthand the unique character of this "International Grape and Wine City." Representing nations like the United States, France, Russia, Italy, and Sri Lanka, these digital storytellers embarked on a journey beyond mere tasting, seeking the essence of Yantai's terroir and its people's passion. This immersive exploration promises to ripple across global platforms, showcasing a region rapidly carving its niche on the world wine map. Yantai's credentials are formidable: a foundational pillar of China's wine industry, its international stature was cemented in 2022 with its pioneering "Partnership" status in the Global Wine Tourism Organization (GWTO), followed by the prestigious "Global Wine Tourism Destination" award in 2023. Vines, Views, and Vinous Character The heart of the discovery lay in the rolling landscapes of Penglai's Qiushan Valley. At Longting Vineyard, the morning mist mingled with focused breaths as guests followed instructors in the graceful movements of Ba Duan Jin,…

Nestled high in Chongqing's mist-shrouded peaks, Huangshui National Tourist Resort emerges as an antidote to scorching summers. At 1500 meters above sea level, this alpine refuge maintains a perpetual 70°F (21°C) embrace, earning its "Natural Air-Conditioned City" moniker. Beyond temperature relief, it unfolds a tapestry of crystalline lakes, primeval forests, and vibrant Tujia traditions, transforming escape into profound discovery within its UNESCO-designated latitude. Nature's Masterpieces Moon Lake mirrors the heavens like liquid jade, its 57-acre surface reflecting dense pine forests. Morning transforms the reservoir into an ethereal landscape where kayakers glide through mist veils. As dusk paints the water gold, photographers capture shimmering light patterns unique to these highlands. Each paddle stroke reveals new perspectives on this human-made marvel. Sun Lake's vast 667 acres claim the title of Southwest China's highest freshwater body. Its transparent waters meet stringent Class I quality standards, revealing submerged rock formations. Visitors skim across the surface on motorboats or pedal water cycles along reed-fringed shores. The surrounding trails invite cyclists to explore microclimates where mountain breezes carry wildflower scents. The Emerald Forest (Bizika Green Palace) envelops travelers in 2,165 acres of old-growth woodland. Giant firs form natural cathedrals where sunlight filters through canopy layers. This…

As Chengdu's streets pulse with the fervor of the World Games and summer heat shimmers above spicy hotpot cauldrons, a playful "apology" echoes from the northwest. "Sorry, we only have 20 degrees!" declares Lijiang, China's ancient mountain jewel, extending an irresistible invitation to Sichuan's sweltering residents. This witty marketing campaign, blending humor with genuine hospitality, unveils a meticulously curated summer escape. Beyond the clever posters lies a tangible promise: mist-shrouded peaks, cobblestone lanes echoing with Naxi melodies, and a meticulously crafted "tourism gift box" designed exclusively for Sichuan travelers seeking refuge in nature's perfect climate. The Art of the "Cool" Apology Lijiang’s campaign masterstroke was framing its climatic advantage as a humorous mea culpa. Nine-panel posters playfully "regretted" the city’s inability to match Chengdu’s scorching temperatures or the thunderous energy of the World Games. Instead, they boasted of cool mountain breezes and ancient rhythms – a juxtaposition that sparked laughter and immediate connection. This viral "apology" transcended mere promotion. It acknowledged Chengdu’s vibrant summer energy while positioning Lijiang as its refreshing counterpart. Xu Lei, member of the Lijiang Gucheng District Party Committee, emphasized the deep kinship between Sichuan and Yunnan, framing the campaign as an act of familial hospitality rather…

Nowadays, many people hold their weddings at noon, and some even insist on finishing before 12:00. However, in ancient times, weddings were usually held at night, and this is often shown in well - made ancient costume dramas. Is there any special significance that we don't know? When faced with such questions, many people around us may be informed that weddings were formerly called "hun li" (昏礼). Since ancient people often held weddings at dusk, it was named so. But this seems to just replace one conclusion with another, without explaining why weddings were held at dusk or close to night. Let me state the conclusion first. There are two main reasons for holding weddings at night: one is related to the theory of yin and yang and the five elements; the other is the evolution of the custom of bride - abduction. Now let's elaborate. The Theory of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements Since men belong to yang and women belong to yin, the intersection of yin and yang is "hun" (昏). According to "The Book of Rites", "A man takes a wife at dusk. Since a woman belongs to yin, it is called 'hun' (marriage)." Here,…

The landscape of Chinese variety shows has exploded from niche entertainment to a dazzling array of options, catering to every conceivable taste. Among this vibrant ecosystem, Keep Running stands as a titan, a thirteen-season veteran celebrated for its chaotic energy and star-studded lineup. Its current ensemble – Li Chen, Zheng Kai, Sha Yi, Zhou Shen, Bai Lu, Fan Chengcheng, Song Yuqi, and Zhang Zhenyuan – represents a potent mix of veteran charm and youthful exuberance, seemingly guaranteeing entertainment gold. Yet, the show’s latest episode, featuring a glamorous squadron of female guests including Wang Churan, Zhang Liangying, Zhang Meng, Zhang Ruonan, and Song Xuan, sparked unexpected controversy, exposing a tension between audience expectations and perceived celebrity privilege. The culprit? A sanitized mud pit that left viewers, and one guest, profoundly disappointed. A Cast Built to Run Keep Running thrives on the combustible chemistry of its core eight. Li Chen and Zheng Kai, the undisputed elder statesmen, provide continuity and a tangible link to the show’s history, anchoring loyal viewers with their familiar presence. Their experience is the bedrock upon which the chaos unfolds. Sha Yi, the show’s comedic linchpin, delivers laughs with effortless timing and self-deprecating charm. His ability to find…

The salty breeze carries the scent of jasmine and the sea through the ancient lanes of Xunpu Village in Quanzhou, Fujian. Here, amidst houses adorned with oyster shells, a vibrant cultural ritual has transformed into a global tourism phenomenon. Visitors from across China and beyond are drawn not just to observe, but to become part of the living heritage, adorning their hair with elaborate crowns of fresh blooms known as Zanhuawei. This once-intimate custom, deeply rooted in the lives of Xunpu women, now offers travelers a unique, immersive passport into centuries of tradition, turning quiet village streets into bustling open-air studios where history is worn proudly, one flower at a time. Petals Through Time Zanhuawei is far more than an aesthetic accessory; it’s the vibrant heart of theXunpu women’s intangible cultural heritage, recognized nationally in 2008. For generations, Xunpu women have meticulously pinned fresh flowers – jasmine, magnolias, chrysanthemums – into their hair as a daily ritual and a symbol of joy, resilience, and connection to the sea. This practice evolved from heartfelt traditions where flowers were exchanged as precious gifts during celebrations and significant life events. The intricate hairstyle, anchored by a distinctive circular bun secured with bone or…