A Fortuitous Spotlight When Henan TV released its Chinese New Year Gala teaser on January 15th, a particular moment sparked excitement across social media. Internet sensation Li Ziqi (李子柒) appeared in a dazzling red modified Hanfu, holding a lion lantern, exuding an ethereal beauty. Astute fans soon connected her stunning outfit to a popular design sold on an e-commerce platform—a creation by Hu Bugui (胡不归), a rising star in Hanfu design. Hu, both the shop owner and designer, hadn’t anticipated this moment of fame. “It was a complete surprise,” she admitted in an interview. “We never collaborated with Li Ziqi, but seeing her wear my design felt surreal.” Within hours, her store was inundated with inquiries, with buyers scrambling to own what was now dubbed the "Li Ziqi Hanfu." The Story Behind the Design The Hanfu in question, a three-piece modified Ming-style ensemble named Yu Nian (余年), has been one of Hu’s bestsellers. Priced at around 1,400 RMB, it features a red jacket inspired by palace walls, a high-necked blouse, and a horse-face skirt embroidered with golden characters reading “岁岁长安皆有所盼” (Hopes for everlasting peace and prosperity). Hu designed it three years ago with the theme of New Year festivities in…

In recent years, the ancient beauty of Hanfu, the traditional attire of China, has transcended its niche roots to become a global sensation. With hashtags like “Sharing the Beauty of Hanfu with the World” trending across social media, Hanfu has emerged as a symbol of cultural pride and a bridge between history and modernity. This revival is fueled by passionate advocates, like influencer Zhou Sisi (周思思) better known as “Si Miao (思喵) hose journey into the world of Hanfu exemplifies the blend of history, art, and personal expression fueling this movement. Zhou Sisi, a renowned Hanfu blogger with over 400,000 followers across platforms, recalls her first brush with Hanfu as a fascination with its aesthetic appeal. However, her interest deepened as she delved into the history behind these garments. “When I first started wearing Hanfu, I only admired its beauty,” Zhou explained. “But as I explored its historical roots, I became captivated by the eras it represented.” Zhou’s preferred styles include Tang and Ming dynasty recreations, each offering unique insights into the people and culture of those periods. For instance, Tang dynasty Hanfu, with its flowing and inclusive designs, reflects the openness and grandeur of one of China's most cosmopolitan…

For a generation raised on the sleek aesthetics of 2D hand-drawn and 3D CGI animation, stop-motion might seem like an antiquated relic of the past. Unlike its counterparts, stop-motion is built on tangible artistry: puppets, clay figures, and mixed materials manipulated frame by painstaking frame. The result? A distinctive, textured realism unmatched by digital techniques. In China, the legacy of stop-motion animation once flourished with studios like Shanghai Animation Film Studio producing classics such as Magic Brush Ma Liang (神笔马良) and The Story of Avanti (阿凡提的故事). However, since the rise of CGI in the 1980s, stop-motion animation has become a niche art form globally, celebrated only by enthusiasts or explored in experimental shorts. Breaking this lull, Tencent Video’s Lantern Blade (灯笼刀) reintroduces audiences to the magic of stop-motion animation, this time through a gritty, action-packed lens. Adapting the cult-favorite comic of the same name, Lantern Blade blends martial arts, cosmic horror, and Western-esque atmospheres into a striking 67-minute trilogy. A Blade that Glows in the Dark Lantern Blade opens in a shadowy, mythical world steeped in Lovecraftian lore. The story revolves around an enigmatic warrior named Lantern Blade, whose titular weapon, a lantern-clad sword, glows in the presence of undead…

Chapter One: When Fiction Becomes Reality Imagine waking up one day and finding yourself trapped in a world you created—a world of danger, deception, and romance. That’s the fate of Meng Xiaotang (孟小棠), a popular web novelist, who accidentally gets pulled into the pages of her own martial arts story. Played by Ke Ying, Meng Xiaotang’s adventure begins when a demanding editor rejects her countless revisions for the male lead of her latest novel. Frustrated, she deletes the character “Ye Wuchen (叶无尘),” the story’s chivalrous hero. This simple act, however, triggers an unexpected twist: Meng is sucked into her book’s universe, becoming the infamous villainess, Feng Nanxi (凤南汐). Feng Nanxi is no ordinary antagonist; she’s a femme fatale wielding the unparalleled yet elusive “Cloud Absorption Technique.” Unfortunately for Meng, she cannot summon its power. Worse still, her character is hunted by everyone in the martial arts world. As the clock ticks and danger looms, she must navigate her fictional universe in search of a way back home. Chapter Two: Villains, Heroes, and Intrigue In a bid to strengthen her odds, Feng Nanxi embarks on a peculiar mission—choosing a “male companion” from a lineup of eligible candidates. By sheer accident, she…

In the heart of Changning, an endearing event brought together the elderly residents of Dongbang Residential Area and volunteers from the Bank of Communications Changning Branch for a unique experience. The "Flourishing Flowers" themed photo session offered a chance to relive fond memories and create new ones, as 50 elderly residents posed for elegant portraits in traditional Chinese attire. The event, which captured moments of joy and nostalgia, brought much-needed warmth and happiness to the lives of the elderly, highlighting the importance of community, memory, and love. A Day of Glamour and Laughter The Dongbang community center transformed into a glamorous photo studio for the day, as volunteers and participants created a festive atmosphere with vibrant lanterns and colorful streamers. The air was filled with the cheerful buzz of conversations and the hum of preparations, with volunteers working hard to ensure that the elderly residents felt pampered and appreciated. Some elderly residents wore their cherished qipaos and tangzhuang (唐装, traditional Chinese attire), while others relied on the kindness of neighbors who lent them their clothes and accessories for the occasion. One of the most touching moments came when 76-year-old Mr. Chen and his 69-year-old wife posed for a “wedding photo”…

In a world increasingly captivated by modern fashion, a young designer at Wuhan Textile University is proving that ancient styles can be just as enchanting. Li Yanjun (李艳君), a graduate student with a passion for traditional Chinese culture, has recreated the flowing garments of the Wei-Jin period, inspired by the legendary Luo Shen Fu painting (洛神赋图) by Gu Kaizhi (顾恺之). Her meticulous work, showcased in a serene photoshoot at the Qingchuan Pavilion (晴川阁), has garnered widespread acclaim, with her video on Bilibili amassing over 14,000 views. A Vision of Wei-Jin Hanfu Li's recreation draws directly from the Luo Shen Fu painting, a celebrated Eastern Jin masterpiece illustrating the romantic tale of Cao Zhi and the goddess Luo Shen. The attire, known as the "zaju chuishou" (杂裾垂髾) ensemble, includes a flowing daxiushan (大袖衫, large-sleeved robe), a banbi (半臂, short-sleeved garment), a biji (蔽膝, knee cover), and a ruqun (襦裙, skirt). Li spent 40 hours intricately embroidering a crimson biji with starry cloud patterns, a design chosen to reflect the ethereal nature of the goddess. “The biji is more than just an accessory,” Li explained. “Its triangular drape was key to the elegance and symbolism of Wei-Jin attire, marking status and adding…

It was an ordinary day in the historic streets of Luoyang when Dong Mingzhu (董明珠), a celebrated Chinese business leader, donned her first Hanfu—a pale blue Ming-style ensemble that caught the eyes of onlookers. Just eight days later, she returned, this time wearing a regal Tang dynasty outfit that matched her commanding presence. Accompanied by her friends, each draped in their chosen styles, Dong’s adventures became a viral moment for Hanfu lovers across China. While Dong’s choice in Hanfu showcased her unique personality, the quiet star of her story was an unassuming county in Shandong—Cao County (曹县). The Hanfu she wore, like many others seen in ancient-style photoshoots or festivals, originated from this lesser-known corner of China. The Small Town with Big Hanfu Dreams Located in southeastern Shandong, Cao County has undergone a cultural and economic metamorphosis. On the surface, it remains humble—far from the bustling touristy image one might expect. But venture fifteen kilometers to Daji Township, and you step into a thriving hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, where small shops handle everything from fabric cutting to digital printing and logistics. Once famous for its mass production of performance costumes, Cao County has emerged as a center of affordable…

Nestled in the heart of Taizhou (泰州), Jiangsu, the Fengcheng River (凤城河) Scenic Area offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty. As a nationally recognized 4A-level tourist destination, this scenic area draws visitors from all over the world with its captivating landscape and cultural richness. With its riverside setting, the Fengcheng River is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the region's identity, seamlessly connecting the past and the present. If you want to understand the essence of a city truly, there's no better place to begin than here, where time itself seems to flow through the water, telling stories of centuries gone by. The Fengcheng River area is defined by its relationship with water, offering a picturesque glimpse into the traditional Jiangnan water town. In this landscape, the famous "Wanghai Tower (望海楼)", an architectural landmark often called "the first tower of Jianghuai (江淮第一楼)," stands as the cultural centerpiece. Its elegant design and historical significance reflect Taizhou's deep cultural roots. As you explore this scenic area, you'll encounter a harmonious blend of natural beauty and human heritage that makes this location an unforgettable experience. Wanghai Tower and the Peach Garden Wanghai Tower, with its origins…

On December 4th, the Chinese Spring Festival was officially added to the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. As one of the world's oldest and most significant celebrations, the Spring Festival reflects the deep-rooted values of family, unity, and harmony with nature. Its recognition by UNESCO signifies not only the global appreciation of this tradition but also highlights the universal values embedded within the festival that resonate with people across cultures. Through the Chinese New Year, China's rich heritage and cultural vitality are being shared with the world, fostering mutual understanding and respect among diverse peoples. The Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional festival in China. It is deeply rooted in the lives of the people, marking a new beginning and symbolizing new hope. According to the conventional Lunar calendar, the first day of the Chinese New Year means not only the start of a new year but also the collective desire for a new beginning—full of peace, prosperity, and happiness. Leading up to the festival, families clean their homes, hang spring couplets, prepare festive meals, and visit their ancestors' graves. These rituals connect the living to their heritage, reinforcing the importance of family…

The National Museum of China, one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the country, offers an extraordinary opportunity to step into the past and witness the grandeur of China's ancient civilization. As visitors walk through its halls, they are greeted by monumental displays, including a massive granite relief of the legendary "Yu Gong Moves the Mountains," depicting the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people. This artwork symbolizes the relentless will and determination that have defined China's history, reflecting both the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved by its people over millennia. Inside the museum, history becomes tangible. The museum's exhibition, "Ancient China," allows visitors to walk through the ages, from the earliest signs of human civilization to the unified dynasties that shaped the cultural landscape of China. With 2026 carefully selected artifacts, including 521 top-tier national treasures, the exhibit provides a multi-dimensional experience of China's ancient heritage. Each artifact tells the story of China's journey from its humble beginnings to the flourishing civilization it is today. The Dawn of Civilization As visitors step into the "Ancient China" exhibit, they are immediately transported back hundreds of thousands of years. The museum's extensive collection begins with the dawn of human civilization…

The fifth edition of the Yangtze River Delta Cultural Expo, held from November 22 to 25 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, offered visitors a fascinating experience of China's diverse regional cultures. Beyond the three provinces and one municipality of the Yangtze River Delta, regions such as Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, Inner Mongolia, Qinghai, and Jilin also participated, showcasing their unique traditions and cultural products. The Expo highlighted China's incredible array of non-material cultural heritage (Intangible Cultural Heritage, ICH) and creative cultural products, allowing visitors to explore the country's traditions without leaving the exhibition halls. With the creative integration of ethnic arts, traditional crafts, and culinary delights, the Expo provided a multi-sensory journey for everyone. Whether it was admiring intricate embroidery, trying traditional foods, or experiencing live performances of ancient rituals and dances, attendees were given a rare opportunity to witness the living history of each region. Immersive Cultural Experiences and Unique Handicrafts The exhibition spaces were not just places to observe but also to engage with the cultural treasures of China. One of the standout features of this year's event was the immersive exhibits, which allowed visitors to interact directly with the cultural heritage of different regions.…

Xiangyang (襄阳), a city nestled along the banks of the Han River, offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and cutting-edge modernity. With a history stretching over 2,800 years, Xiangyang is a city where visitors can experience the fullness of China's cultural tapestry. Walking through its ancient city walls, visitors can feel the weight of its rich history, while the gleaming industrial parks showcase the region's rapid technological and economic growth. Whether you're exploring tranquil rural landscapes or delving into Xiangyang's vibrant cultural tourism scene, this city is proving that the past and future can not only coexist but thrive together in a new era of development. Xiangyang's historical significance is vast and deeply interwoven with the stories of ancient China. The city was once the heart of the Jingchu culture (荆楚文化) and has long been a center of political and military power. It played a crucial role during the Three Kingdoms period, which is immortalized in China's literary classic "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", where a significant number of the novel's pivotal events unfolded. Xiangyang also boasts a rich collection of artifacts and monuments, with over 1,700 historical sites that have earned the city the title of "The First…

Preserving An Yue's (安岳) Rich Cultural Traditions In the picturesque county of An Yue, nestled in the heart of Sichuan Province, an ancient cultural legacy continues to thrive. Known for its remarkable collection of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), An Yue is home to diverse traditions that have been passed down through generations. As the saying goes, "Cultural heritage is like an elderly sage, watching history pass by with helplessness, needing to be seen by the world." Indeed, the county's heritage, from stone carving to folk music and culinary delights, tells the stories of its people's ingenuity, labor, and creativity over millennia. An Yue is not just a place with rich history—it's a living testament to the creativity and resilience of its people. Here, ancient craftsmanship is not confined to museums but is actively preserved and practiced by the people, many of whom are proud inheritors of these traditions. From its famous stone carvings to its unique bamboo weaving and folk opera, the county's heritage is a treasure trove of art, craft, and story. An Yue's history as a "home of stone carvings" is unmatched, with over 100,000 ancient stone carvings scattered across the region. These stunning works are notable for…

The Chinese abacus, or "suanpan (算盘)," is a mathematical marvel that has played a pivotal role in Chinese commerce and education for centuries. Known as the "fifth greatest invention of China," the abacus remains a symbol of China's rich cultural and intellectual heritage. It's not just a tool for calculation—it's a gateway to understanding the deep connection between mathematics, commerce, and daily life in ancient China. The saying "When the abacus clicks, gold flows in" reflects the profound impact the abacus had on the business world, especially for the influential Shanxi merchants of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Recently, a ceremony celebrating the 500th anniversary of the publication of "Suanxue Baojian (算学宝鉴)" (The Treasure of Arithmetic) was held in Taiyuan, Shanxi, paying tribute to the legendary mathematician and abacus expert Wang Wensu. His groundbreaking work, completed over thirty years, was not just an academic achievement but also an essential tool for the success of the Shanxi merchant community. The "Suanxue Baojian" covers a broad range of mathematical concepts, including advanced calculations for equations, the pricing of goods like rice and horses, and the practical applications of these methods in business. Wang's work solidified the role of mathematics—and especially the abacus—in…

When you think of Henan, what comes to mind? For many, this province is synonymous with deep historical significance, home to some of China's most famous ancient cities. From Luoyang (洛阳) to Kaifeng, Henan boasts a wealth of cultural landmarks that have shaped Chinese civilization. Yet, Henan's charm goes beyond these iconic cities. Among its lesser-known but equally fascinating places is Gongyi (巩义), a small county-level city located between Zhengzhou and Luoyang. Despite its modest size, Gongyi is rich in historical treasures, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, offering a compelling reason for travelers to visit. Gongyi's strategic location and historical importance have made it a cultural and economic crossroads for thousands of years. Known as one of the oldest county-level cities in Henan, Gongyi has a history that dates back to the Qin Dynasty. Its name symbolizes "a city that stands firm, no matter what." The city's location between two major cities, Zhengzhou and Luoyang, adds to its allure as a key part of Henan's history. Gongyi's History Gongyi is home to a remarkable collection of ancient sites that reveal the city's rich past. Among the most significant are the Northern Song Dynasty Imperial Tombs and the Northern Wei Cave…

The Li River (漓江) is an undeniable gem of Chinese natural beauty, and its place as a national treasure is well-deserved. As one of China's first 5A-rated tourist destinations, it represents the very essence of the country's landscapes, echoing through the hearts of those who visit. Winding its way through the picturesque karst mountains of Guilin (桂林), the Li River is renowned not just for its visual splendor but for its ability to capture the imagination of anyone who witnesses its beauty. Its unparalleled charm is more than a local marvel; it is a global symbol of China's natural grandeur. Described as "a thousand paintings in a hundred miles," the Li River is often considered the soul of Guilin's landscape. The river, meandering through towering peaks, lush greenery, and mist-filled valleys, offers an ethereal experience that feels like stepping into a traditional Chinese ink painting. Its majestic waters, which have inspired poets and artists for centuries, are considered by many to be among the world's most beautiful rivers. With each twist and turn, the Li River reveals yet another breathtaking vista—whether it's the dramatic cliffs, the mist rising off the water, or the reflections of the karst formations that seem…

On December 4th, the UNESCO Committee officially added the "Spring Festival – The Social Practice of Celebrating the Traditional Chinese New Year" to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This monumental inclusion highlights the global significance of Chinese New Year, not only as a festive occasion but as a vital cultural practice with deep historical roots. Among the newly listed elements are some of Jiangsu province's most cherished cultural treasures: Nanjing's Qinhuai Lantern Festival (南京秦淮灯会), Suzhou's Taohuawu Woodblock New Year Prints (苏州桃花坞木版年画), and Wuxi's Taibo Temple Fair (无锡泰伯庙). For those who may not be familiar with these cultural gems, they are now being recognized as crucial expressions of Chinese identity and tradition. This recognition affirms the province's profound contribution to the country's cultural heritage, further solidifying Jiangsu's status as an artistic powerhouse. With this addition, Jiangsu now boasts a total of 14 UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritages, more than any other province in China. Nanjing's Qinhuai Lantern Festival When one thinks of Nanjing during the Spring Festival, it's hard to ignore the dazzling spectacle of the Qinhuai Lantern Festival. A historical tradition that stretches back to the Southern Dynasties, the lantern festival has been a hallmark of…

In the heart of Guangan (广安), Sichuan, the annual "Hua Ying Mountain (华蓥山) Sliding Pole Competition" has become more than just a sporting event. It is a living celebration of one of China's most cherished intangible cultural heritage projects. Held in the winter of 2024, the competition brought together 24 teams from various sectors of the city, with 48 participants competing in this fascinating cultural display. The Hua Ying Mountain Sliding Pole, known locally as "Hua Gan Tai Yao Mei (滑竿抬幺妹)," traces its origins back to the Tang Dynasty and is deeply tied to the local customs and practical needs of the area. On this brisk morning, the streets were bustling with eager spectators, young and old, who had gathered to witness this vibrant fusion of competition, culture, and community. In the competition, teams of men, known as the "bearers," lift poles with young women, or "Sisters," sitting delicately on them as they navigate challenging tracks. It's not just a race; it's an art form, a cultural ritual, and a celebration of local history. What makes this event particularly unique is its ability to blend traditional elements with the energy of modern sports. The event features not only skill-based performances…

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…