Discovering Su Bei's Unique Appeal In the scorching heat of July, where even the air seems to shimmer with intensity, Su Bei (肃北) County in northwestern Gansu Province offers an unexpected respite. As the temperature soars elsewhere, Su Bei, with its unique geographical and cultural features, emerges as an alluring oasis for summer travelers. Su Bei County, nestled in the northern foothills of the Qilian Mountains, is a haven of contrasts. The region is divided into two distinct areas: the southern and northern mountains. With an average altitude of over 2000 meters in the southern region, Su Bei experiences a pleasantly cool summer climate, often hovering around 23 degrees Celsius. A Cultural and Natural Wonderland Gansu's only Mongolian autonomous county, Su Bei, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Picture vast grasslands that stretch like a green sea, majestic snow-capped Qilian Mountains, and the crystal-clear Dan River meandering through the county. Together, these features create a picturesque and culturally vibrant tourist corridor. In early July, Su Bei launched its "Weekend Cool Escape Experience Tour," an initiative designed to blend culture, sports, cuisine, and intangible cultural heritage into a comprehensive tourism extravaganza. The program aims to attract visitors with a…

"Wind blows through Luzhou, carrying the fragrance of wine." This well-known proverb from the Sichuan-Chongqing region encapsulates Luzhou's identity. Mention Luzhou, and the immediate reaction is often, "Oh! Luzhou Laojiao (泸州老窖), right?" Indeed, Luzhou Laojiao is a prestigious representative of this city. Yet, to those who aren't aficionados of the drink, it may seem like Luzhou's fame is solely tied to its liquor. However, as the once-hidden ancient towns and small cities become overrun with tourists, Luzhou, the southern Sichuan wine city, resurfaces in our travel radar. It offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion—ideal for those yearning to unwind. Beyond its renowned liquor, Luzhou embodies a spirit of "laziness"—a relaxed pace of life. There's no rush to check off tourist spots or stick to a tight schedule. From early morning to late evening, Luzhou offers not just wine but also a "spirit of the wine god." The Heart of Luzhou’s Winemaking Luzhou's reputation as a wine city isn't just for show. The city is renowned for its use of single grain fermentation in making strong aromatic liquors. While most others use multi-grain fermentation, which is cost-effective, Luzhou Laojiao's single grain method, primarily using sorghum, stands out in…

The Gastronomic Journey of Shunde Shunde, a region in Guangdong province, China, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, earning the title of "World's Capital of Gastronomy." The story of Shunde's rise as a global food destination is a blend of history, culture, and unparalleled dedication to the art of food. The tale begins with the legendary Han Dynasty envoy Tang Meng, who journeyed to the southern kingdom of Nanyue, discovering a land rich with diverse and exquisite ingredients. In 1621, Huang Shijun, the first top scholar from Shunde, established the Qinghui Garden, which later passed into the hands of the Long family. This garden, along with many others in the region, exemplifies the unique blend of natural beauty and human artistry that defines Lingnan (Cantonese) garden culture. Lingnan Gardens: A Fusion of Nature and Art The concept of gardens in Lingnan, which includes Shunde, has a long and storied history. As early as 2000 years ago, the Nanyue Kingdom established royal gardens in this region. The tradition of garden-making evolved significantly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, influenced by the region's flourishing overseas trade and cultural exchanges. These gardens reflect a unique blend of Chinese and Western, northern and…

Among the various regional delicacies in China, Xinjiang rice noodles stand out as the most intense and fiercely spicy, without a doubt. While rice noodles from other provinces may reach a high level of spiciness known as "mala" (numbing and spicy), Xinjiang takes it to another level with options ranging from mild to explosively spicy. This fiery reputation has led to tales of brave entrepreneurs attempting to introduce Xinjiang rice noodles in Sichuan, only to retreat due to the overwhelming heat. The allure of these noodles lies in their irresistible spiciness, which has a particularly strong appeal among women in Xinjiang. There is even a local saying that the most beautiful girls in Xinjiang can often be found in rice noodle shops, and every Xinjiang girl has consumed at least half a ton of these noodles. This addictive nature has catapulted Xinjiang rice noodles to fame, making them more popular than traditional dishes like lamb skewers, large plate chicken, and even roasted Nang. The Experience of Xinjiang Rice Noodles The real depth of Xinjiang rice noodles' intensity is not just about the heat; it's about the entire experience. From the moment you step into a Xinjiang rice noodle shop, you…

When people think of eating mushrooms in China, their minds often jump to Yunnan. However, Guizhou, a neighboring mountainous province, also boasts a rich variety of edible mushrooms thanks to its unique natural conditions. A Mushroom Lover's Dream Guizhou, known for its rugged terrain and being the only province in China without plains, has 92.5% of its land covered by mountains and hills. The cool summer climate, with an average temperature of 24°C, creates an ideal environment for diverse vegetation, making Guizhou a natural habitat for mushrooms. Among the mountains, a variety of mushrooms such as the chicken leg mushroom (鸡㙡菌), purple mushroom (紫花菌), white ginseng mushroom (白参菌), golden ear (金耳), deer antler mushroom (鹿茸菇), red bamboo fungus (红托竹荪), black beef liver mushroom (黑牛肝菌), and grey tree flower (灰树花) thrive, becoming delicious ingredients in Guizhou cuisine. The sheer variety of mushrooms provides endless culinary possibilities for the people of Guizhou. Traditional dishes like spicy chicken mushroom hotpot, Longli meat pie chicken, and the provincial intangible cultural heritage dish Zhi Jin Water Eight Bowls (织金水八碗) are still popular today. Meanwhile, modern Guizhou chefs creatively combine local mushrooms with international cooking techniques, giving rise to innovative dishes like Panxian aged ham chicken…

The Shanghai Museum is set to captivate audiences with an unprecedented exhibition titled "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt," opening on July 18, 2024. This monumental showcase, part of the museum's "Dialogue with the World" series, marks the fourth such exhibition and promises to be the largest and most comprehensive display of ancient Egyptian artifacts ever seen in Asia. Co-hosted by the Shanghai Museum and Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, and supported by China's National Cultural Heritage Administration and Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, this exhibition is an extraordinary collaboration. With special backing from the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism and Shanghai Media Group, the event will offer a rare glimpse into the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The Grand Reveal At a preview event on May 20, 2024, key figures from both China and Egypt gathered to celebrate this historic cultural exchange. Among the attendees were Ismail, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities; Moamen, Head of International Exhibitions at Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities; and top representatives from Shanghai's cultural and tourism sectors. The preview was hosted by Tang Shifen, Secretary of the Party Committee of the Shanghai Museum, and attended…

Ge Garden (个园): A Timeless Masterpiece of Chinese Landscaping When one mentions Ge Garden, one of China’s Four Great Gardens, it’s not just the locals of Yangzhou who recall the legacy of Huang Zhiyun (黄至筠), the famous salt merchant of the Qing Dynasty. Visitors from all corners of the world also come to appreciate the refined tastes of this esteemed garden’s original owner. Established in 1988 as a national key cultural relic, the history of Ge Garden traces back to the Ming Dynasty when it was known as Shouzhi Garden. The Poetic Charm of Yangzhou’s Landscape Yangzhou, with its millennia-long literary elegance, was immortalized in the poetry of Li Bai, whose line “In the mist and flowers of March, I head down to Yangzhou,” paints a vivid picture of a springtime wonderland. This poetic allure makes Yangzhou a dream destination for many. Among the city’s must-visit attractions, Ge Garden stands out along with Slender West Lake. Known for its abundant bamboo, Ge Garden’s name is derived from the resemblance of bamboo leaves to the Chinese character "个", which’s pinyin is Ge. The garden’s record, "Ge Garden Chronicles," describes its serene ponds and pavilions, complemented by verdant bamboo groves, making it…

Summer is the season to indulge in icy treats, and China offers a diverse array of regional specialties that are sure to delight your taste buds. While some may cautiously navigate their way through supermarket freezers to avoid overpriced ice cream, others in various parts of China are savoring unique and refreshing ice delicacies. Let's explore some of these delightful summer treats from Guizhou, Tianjin, Xinjiang, and beyond. Guizhou's Heavenly Ice Slush (冰浆) If you've ever had the pleasure of trying Guizhou's ice slush, you'll know it leaves a lasting impression. Made from fresh fruits, glutinous rice, ice, and sugar, this treat is known for its smooth and layered texture, thanks to the addition of glutinous rice. The result is a refined, creamy consistency that melts in your mouth, offering a unique twist on traditional ice slushes. The classic flavor is cucumber milk, which combines the refreshing taste of cucumber with the creamy texture of glutinous rice. One bite and you're transported to a state of cool bliss, with the fresh cucumber aroma filling your senses. Mango-flavored ice slush is another favorite, featuring chunks of real mango that deliver a burst of tropical flavor. With every bite, it's like enjoying…

The Historical Roots of Baojiatun (鲍家屯) Nestled in the heart of Guizhou, Baojiatun is a village with a name that signifies peace and prosperity. The story of Baojiatun begins in the Ming Dynasty when Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang implemented policies to develop the southwestern region of China. Among the soldiers who journeyed with Zhu Yuanzhang's army was Bao Fubao, a soldier from Huizhou, who settled in what is now Baojiatun. For over six centuries, Bao's descendants have preserved their Huizhou heritage while becoming an integral part of Guizhou's history. Over time, Baojiatun has evolved, blending the rich traditions of Huizhou with the unique landscape of Guizhou. The memories of Huizhou are deeply embedded in the village's culture, evident in the local architecture, agricultural practices, and water management systems that date back hundreds of years. The Ingenious Water Management System One of the most remarkable features of Baojiatun is its water management system, a testament to the ingenuity of its early settlers. Drawing from the water management techniques of their Huizhou homeland, the Bao family constructed a system of dams, canals, and irrigation channels that have sustained the village's agriculture for centuries. This system includes the "Dividing Fish Mouth," a structure that…

When it comes to Chinese street food, a Beijing friend once said, "If Xi'an ranks second, no one in the North dares to claim first." This high praise piqued my curiosity, especially as a Southerner, where I worried that Xi'an's cuisine might be all about heavy, carb-loaded dishes. However, my visit to this ancient city, the capital of 13 dynasties, revealed a delightful blend of agricultural and nomadic influences that shaped its diverse culinary DNA. A Meat Lover's Dream: The Best of Xi'an's Carnivorous Offerings Xi'an is a haven for meat lovers, offering a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. One notable dish is the Mutton Soup (水盆羊肉), famously depicted in the TV series "The Longest Day in Chang'an (长安十二时辰)." Served in a bowl larger than your face, this hearty soup comes with translucent broth, topped with green onions, cilantro, and garlic, with tender slices of mutton peeking through. The first sip reveals a slightly salty yet rich flavor, and the mutton itself is soft and delicate, devoid of any unpleasant gamey taste, with a hint of milky sweetness. Accompanied by noodles and a dash of vinegar and chili, this dish becomes a comforting experience on…

In the serene county of Huize, nestled within Qujing City, the ancient art of Chinese flower arrangement, or Chahua (插花) , flourishes under the skilled hands of Dan Shunmei, known as the "Flower Fairy." Recognized as an intangible cultural heritage, this traditional practice has been carefully preserved and revitalized, breathing life into the rich cultural tapestry of Huize. In ancient China, flower arrangement was esteemed alongside incense burning, tea brewing, and painting as one of the "four arts" of refined living. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, this practice blossomed, inspiring countless poets and artists and giving rise to seminal works like Luo Qiu's "The Nine Precepts of Flowers (花九锡)." This treatise, likening flower arrangement to greatest honor of serving emperor, laid down nine principles for handling the peony, showcasing the meticulous artistry and aesthetic sophistication of the era. The Nine Precepts of Flowers 1. Double Dome: Enveloping flowers in dual canopies to shield them from the elements. 2. Golden Shears: Using gilded, sharp scissors to finely trim flower stems. 3. Sweet Springs: Nourishing flowers with natural spring water. 4. Jade Vases: Utilizing top-tier, jade-like porcelain vases to enhance floral beauty. 5. Ornate Stands: Placing arrangements on intricately carved stands…

Hanfu, the traditional attire of the Han Chinese, has seen a resurgence in popularity, with enthusiasts embracing its elegance and cultural significance. A notable trend within this resurgence is the rise of "co-branded Hanfu," which refers to Hanfu garments created in collaboration with well-known brands or intellectual properties (IPs). But this trend raises a critical question: Is co-branded Hanfu a genuine cultural collaboration that benefits both the Hanfu community and the IPs, or is it merely a way to exploit consumers? The Appeal of Co-branded Hanfu: A Consumer Perspective When it comes to purchasing co-branded Hanfu, how strong is the consumer desire? To gain insight, I spoke with several Hanfu enthusiasts, or "tongpao," and discovered a common theme: they generally do not buy Hanfu solely for the collaboration. Instead, their purchase decisions are driven by the design's aesthetics and the garment's cost-effectiveness. One enthusiast mentioned, "I won't buy Hanfu just because it's co-branded. I'll only buy it if it looks good and is reasonably priced." This sentiment highlights a significant issue in the co-branded Hanfu market: many of these garments are overpriced and of poor quality. Additionally, some designs stray so far from traditional Hanfu that they can barely be…

When Chinese people feel homesick, they often turn to the comforting flavors of their hometown dishes. The unique tastes and aromas of local foods serve as powerful reminders of home, evoking memories and a sense of belonging. Among these, noodles hold a special place, each bowl carrying the essence of its origin and the emotions of those who savor it. The Soulful Noodles of Northeast China In Northeast China, noodles are more than just food; they are a spiritual journey back to one's roots. In Shenyang, for instance, the beloved "Laosiqi Hand-pulled Noodles" are a staple. This dish is more than a meal—it's a ritual. Locals begin by savoring the original broth, then add generous amounts of aromatic chili oil. The combination of hand-pulled noodles and tender chicken bones creates a comforting dish that warms the soul in winter and refreshes in summer. Harbin's specialty, spicy noodles, is another cherished memory for many. The simplicity of a basic meat sauce noodle is transformed by the magic of the condiment station. Each diner customizes their bowl with garlic, chili, sesame oil, and vinegar, creating a unique and nostalgic flavor profile. Yanji's cold noodles epitomize the taste of summer. Meticulously prepared, the…

The first time I met Mina was in a small fruit and vegetable store. With her dark, curly hair and striking Central Asian features, she effortlessly conversed with customers in fluent Mandarin, even slipping into the local Shaanxi dialect. This Tajikistan native has formed a deep bond with the city of Xi'an, and her story is one of cultural integration and blossoming friendships. Mina, now 20 years old, has just completed her undergraduate studies at the Chinese Language Institute of Xi'an International Studies University. Reflecting on her four years of study, she describes her experience as "rich" and "exciting." During this time, she participated in numerous cultural exchange activities, from performing Central Asian tea ceremonies and dances at the Tang Dynasty Everbright City to singing at the China-Central Asia Youth Leadership Program. These experiences have not only enhanced her language skills but also her ability to sing and dance proficiently. One of Mina's most significant experiences was volunteering at the China-Central Asia Summit, where she introduced the Terracotta Warriors and the historical development of the Silk Road to guests and journalists. "The setup of the conference was incredibly impressive, and I felt honored to be a part of it," she…

Whenever the weather gets hot, it's time for the snails to shine in the night snacks rivers and lakes. In the hot summer, beer with fried snails is the standard ending of late-night snacks around the world, sharp peppers, star anise and other spices in the snail meat to promote the issuance of fresh, salty and spicy multi-faceted flavor for a late night to increase the color and aroma. Diners who have time to indulge in "shagging snails" itself sound, between the lips and teeth, gently shagging, snail meat will be popped out in response to the sound, snail shells within the delicious soup also enters the mouth. Although a plate of snails is small, it can bring supreme fun, and the universe of "eating snails" derived from it is also latent with the wisdom of life of the Chinese people who see the small things and know the big things. Small snails, big fun Although small snails are inconspicuous, they have been discovered by gourmets early and have been on the table of Chinese people for a long time. Archaeologists have deduced from the snail shell accumulations at the Bailian Cave site in Liuzhou, the Carp Mouth site in…

From Museum to Marketplace: The Trend of Museum-inspired Artifacts In recent years, a fascinating trend has emerged where cultural artifacts from museums have transcended their traditional settings to become sought-after items in the hands of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. This phenomenon is not just about preserving history but also about celebrating it in contemporary contexts. At the forefront of this trend is the Hangzhou Museum in Zhejiang Province, China, which has sparked a frenzy with its latest creation: a refrigerator magnet modeled after the "Shadow-green glazed red cup with high foot" (影青釉里红高足杯) a distinctive high-footed cup from its collection. This cup, characterized by its translucent white body and crimson hues, adorned with cracks and imperfections, has captured the imagination of many due to its aesthetic appeal that seamlessly blends ancient craftsmanship with modern sensibilities. Bridging Past and Present: The Appeal of Cultural Dialogue through Art The appeal of these museum-inspired products lies not only in their visual appeal but also in the stories they carry. For instance, the high-footed cup, originally used during the Yuan Dynasty by nomadic tribes, speaks volumes about ancient lifestyles and customs. Its elongated handle, designed for easy carrying on belts or horsebacks, illustrates a practical yet…

In the realm of captivating television dramas, "Longing Heart Season 2" emerges as a beacon of storytelling prowess and artistic depth. Recently announced to premiere exclusively on Jiangsu TV's Happiness Theater platform starting July 8th, the series is poised to continue its spellbinding narrative journey that began with its acclaimed first season. Adapted from Tong Hua's novel of the same name, "Longing Heart" transports viewers to a period of tripartite rivalry among the kingdoms of Xi Yan, Hao Ling, and Chen Rong. At its heart is the protagonist Wang Ji, also known as "Xiao Yao," who endures a century of tumultuous trials only to find solace in the tranquil town of Qingshui, where she becomes known as Wen Xiaoliu. Xiao Yao's cousin, Wang Sunjuan, traverses the vast wilderness in search of her, while Xiaoliu unwittingly saves the life of Tu Shanjing, a noble scion of Qing Qiu, forging a bond that blossoms into romance amid their daily interactions. Later, Xiaoliu becomes acquainted with Xiang Liu through a series of serendipitous encounters, eventually forming a deep bond of camaraderie. The path to reunion with Sunjuan proves fraught with challenges and twists before their eventual recognition. When "Longing Heart Season 1" aired…

On July 14th, amidst a backdrop of suspense and excitement, Tencent Video's highly anticipated original animated shorts collection finally lifted its veil, launching with its debut works "Save Me" and "Lantern Blade" under the "Stop-Motion Animation Series". These shorts, exclusive to Tencent Video's JUMP Card, mark the beginning of a journey into the realms of fantasy and creativity. Featuring 12 animated shorts crafted by a diverse group of 12 directors from around the world, the collection is structured around three main themes: "Stop-Motion Animation Series", "Young Directors Series", and "Great Artists Series". Innovative Storytelling through Classic Animation Imagine finding a message in a drifting bottle inside a public restroom toilet – it reads "Save Me" (救我) alongside precious diamonds. Between the struggle of desires, would you choose to rescue the one in distress or wait for more diamonds? This is the premise of "Save Me", a whimsical tale that navigates through twists and turns of wuxia adventure and mystery. Meanwhile, "Lantern Blade" (灯笼刀) dives into the realms of traditional martial arts and Lovecraftian horror, bridging Eastern and Western elements to convey universal values of truth and beauty. Upcoming in the series, "The Inn of Heroes" promises a modern-day comedic take on martial…

In the beginning, it was just a leaf, encountered by humans as a remedy for detoxification. Little did they know, millennia ago, this leaf would transform into a beloved beverage through the hands of the Chinese. Tea Rituals Enter the poetic realm of Tang Dynasty poets, where tea transcended its medicinal roots to become the elixir of life for nomadic tribes and a muse for scholars. Poems like Su Dongpo's famous verse "A playful poem, don't laugh, fine teas are as beautiful as fair ladies" elevated tea to a realm beyond mere refreshment. Su Dongpo, a polymath known for his mastery of the arts, immersed himself deeply in the art of tea. Beyond his renowned verses on food and wine, Dongpo's affinity for tea was a lesser-discussed facet of his life. For him, tea was not just a drink but a ritual—a blend of leaf, water, and vessel, each meticulously chosen. His poems reflect this intimacy with tea: "Snowy foam and milky swirls in the noon teacup, fragrant herbs steeped in spring dishes. The best of life's flavors are pure joy." His appreciation for freshly brewed tea after a satisfying nap showcases his nuanced approach to life's pleasures, where tea…

Capturing Hearts with "Duhua Years" In the midst of this saturated summer of historical dramas, "Duhua Years," adapted from Mo Shu Bai's novel "Chang Princess," has captivated audiences with its intricate emotional arcs and complex palace intrigues. Led by Zhao Jinmai and Zhang Linghe, the cast has masterfully portrayed the love and enmity between Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan, evoking palpable emotions that transcend time and place. As "Duhua Years" continues to air, the release of its original soundtrack on All-K Song has provided a platform for fans of ancient-style music and the series alike to express their emotions freely. Curated by talented singers such as Shirinna Yigao, Shuimunianhua, and Mika, the "Duhua Years" OST comprises the theme song "Unfulfilled Years," the ending song "Wind Blows," and emotive interludes including "Hold Love," "Dual Dreams," "Love Unending," "Hidden Heart," and "Soul Bound." These tracks weave tales of destiny and entanglement, creating a musical journey through the flower-laden streets of Huajing. Emotional Expressions on All-K Song Upon the release of "Duhua Years" OST, fans rushed to All-K Song to showcase their love and support through heartfelt renditions. One All-K user, "Forever," chose to interpret the emotional interlude "Hidden Heart." Enhanced by "VIP…