History & Culture

The Mid-Autumn Festival is often synonymous with moon-gazing, family gatherings, and mooncakes. However, in ancient times, this festival was far more than just an evening dedicated to the moon. What if the skies were overcast, and the full moon hidden? How did the people of the past still manage to celebrate? Even in the absence of a visible moon, their festivities were rich and varied, showcasing traditions and customs beyond simply admiring the celestial body. Moonless Festivities: Celebrating Togetherness A traditional painting from the Qing Dynasty, titled The Auspicious Mid-Autumn (中秋佳瑞图), provides a glimpse into how ancient people celebrated this festival. Interestingly, the moon is not depicted in the artwork, yet the scene is filled with symbols of unity and joy. Fruits such as pomegranates, melons, and lotus roots are prominently featured, representing family harmony and prosperity. Even in the absence of the moon, people would gather to enjoy each other’s company, marking the occasion with wishes for happiness, fertility, and abundance. The essence of the festival lay not only in viewing the moon but in its deeper cultural significance, centered around family reunions and expressions of good fortune. The “Four Auspicious Trees” – the parasol tree and osmanthus tree,…

In the tapestry of human culture, few threads are as intricate and revealing as the names we bestow upon ourselves and others. Names serve as more than mere labels; they are vessels of identity, carriers of tradition, and mirrors reflecting societal values. This is particularly true when examining the evolution of female naming conventions, a fascinating journey that spans centuries and offers profound insights into the changing roles and perceptions of women in society. The Power of a Name: How Suffixes Shaped Women's Identities in Classical Literature In the realm of classical Chinese literature, a curious pattern emerges when examining the names of female characters. A striking number of these fictional women bear names ending with the character "娘" (niang), which can be roughly translated as "maiden" or "young woman." This naming convention is not merely a stylistic choice but a window into the cultural expectations and social positioning of women in traditional Chinese society. Consider the beloved characters from renowned works such as "The Water Margin" and "Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio." In these stories, we encounter women like Zhang Zhenniang, Hu Sanniang, and Xin Shisining. The "niang" suffix serves multiple purposes: it immediately identifies the character as…

A Golden Victory: Showcasing China's Rich Cultural Heritage In the heart of China's cultural landscape, a remarkable institution is making waves by bringing the wisdom of the ages to life. The Gansu Bamboo Slips Museum recently captured the spotlight at the 10th China Museum and Related Products and Technology Expo, earning the prestigious Gold Award for Best Exhibition. This achievement underscores the museum's commitment to preserving and presenting China's invaluable historical treasures in innovative and engaging ways. The expo, centered around the theme "High-Quality Development of Museums: Balancing Education and Research, Integrating Digital and Physical Realms," drew participation from 552 museums and related enterprises. Among this sea of cultural institutions, the Gansu Bamboo Slips Museum stood out with its striking exhibition design that seamlessly blended ancient aesthetics with modern presentation techniques. Stepping into the museum's exhibition space was like crossing a threshold into China's illustrious past. The design team masterfully employed Han dynasty elements as a backdrop, creating an ambiance that transported visitors through time. The color palette, dominated by black and gold, exuded an air of elegance and importance. The use of que (阙) - ancient Chinese architectural gateways - as structural elements further reinforced the connection to historical…

Zhang Chu's Cloud Fall Paints a Vivid Portrait of County Life In the bustling landscape of contemporary Chinese literature, a quiet revolution is taking place. Authors are turning their gaze away from the glittering metropolises and towards the heart of the nation: its countless county towns. Leading this charge is Zhang Chu (张楚), whose debut novel "Cloud Fall" has captivated readers and critics alike with its intricate portrayal of life in a northern Chinese county. "Cloud Fall" (云落) is more than just a story; it's a cultural time capsule, a sociological study, and a deeply human narrative all rolled into one. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Wan Ying, readers are invited to witness the transformation of a small town over decades, mirroring China's own journey of modernization and change. What sets Zhang's work apart is her attention to detail. Every page is infused with the sights, sounds, and smells of county life. From the clatter of mahjong tiles in back-alley parlors to the pungent aroma of street food stalls, Zhang's prose brings the setting to life with vivid clarity. This sensory richness has earned her work the moniker of "natural history" in literary circles, a testament to her ability to catalogue the…

From Ancient Art to Modern Stage: The Journey of a Peking Opera Performer The art of Peking Opera, a jewel in the crown of Chinese cultural heritage, continues to evolve and adapt in the modern era. This evolution is beautifully exemplified by the recent production "Enlightenment of Wang Yangming," (阳明悟道) a historical Peking Opera that showcases both traditional techniques and innovative approaches to storytelling and performance. The story of this production is intertwined with the personal journey of a dedicated performer, whose life has been shaped by the rich traditions of Chinese opera. Born in 1976 in Kaifeng, Henan Province – a region renowned for its vibrant opera culture – this artist grew up immersed in the world of traditional performance. Encouraged by opera-loving parents and trained by a devoted uncle, he embarked on a path that would lead him from amateur enthusiasm to professional acclaim. After graduating from the Chinese Opera Academy, the young performer faced the challenges of a declining market for traditional opera. Despite temptations to abandon his craft, he persevered, driven by a deep passion for the art form. His dedication was rewarded with accolades and opportunities, including a pivotal meeting with Hou Danmei, the director of the…

"Four Visits to His Mother": A Masterclass in Traditional Artistry On a warm August evening in 2024, Beijing's Chang'an Grand Theatre came alive with the vibrant sounds and colors of one of China's most beloved art forms. The highly anticipated performance of "Four Visits to His Mother," (四郎探母) a classic Peking Opera, brought together threHeadline 1: e generations of performers in a spectacular display of talent, tradition, and innovation. This special production, themed "Harmony Through Generations, Filial Piety and Love," was more than just entertainment. It served as a powerful reminder of the enduring values embedded in Chinese culture and the vital role that traditional arts play in preserving and transmitting these values to future generations. The star-studded cast featured a mix of venerable masters, established performers, and rising stars, each bringing their unique interpretations to the iconic roles. The character of Iron Mirror Princess, for instance, was portrayed by four different actresses throughout the evening, each representing a distinct style and generation of performers. Li Hui, a young talent and third-generation inheritor of the Huang School, captivated the audience with her sweet and delicate vocal style. Her portrayal of the princess was both fresh and respectful of tradition, earning her thunderous…

On July 4th, more than 80 international students from countries such as Morocco, Kenya, Kazakhstan, Armenia, studying at China Jiliang University and Zhejiang University of Technology, visited Shangyu District in Shaoxing City. They embarked on a journey to explore the historical and contemporary significance of the birthplace of porcelain and experienced the charm of Yue Kiln celadon culture. They were amazed by how Zhejiang Tianxingjian Waterworks Co. Ltd carries forward their hometown's millennium-old ceramic culture through innovation. The students were deeply impressed by the company's accomplishments in entrepreneurship and technological innovation, which sparked their desire to start businesses in China and strengthen cultural exchanges. Uncovering the Legacy: A Brief History Lesson The morning sun cast its gentle rays upon Shangyu Museum as these curious souls stepped inside. They found themselves amidst a treasure trove - the Yue Kiln celadon (越窑青瓷) exhibition hall - where time seemingly stood still. Over 1,800 years ago during the Eastern Han Dynasty, this enchanted land witnessed an extraordinary birth—the emergence of mature porcelain production. Intrigued by their surroundings and guided by knowledgeable experts within these hallowed halls, international students marveled at how this region had become home to one of humanity's earliest encounters with refined…

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…

In the annals of Chinese history, the Qing Dynasty stands as the final imperial dynasty, ruled by the Manchu ethnic group from 1644 to 1912. Emerging from the northeastern regions between the White Mountains and Black Water, the Manchu people forged a remarkable dynasty that left an indelible mark on Chinese culture and society for nearly three centuries. The roots of the Manchu people trace back to the ancient Jurchen tribes who inhabited the northeastern territories over two millennia ago. Evolving through centuries of interaction and assimilation, they eventually formed distinct identities such as the Jianzhou Jurchens and later, the Manchus. Their cultural evolution was profoundly influenced by interactions with neighboring civilizations, particularly the Han Chinese, leading to the adoption and adaptation of various political, economic, and cultural systems. Central to Manchu identity were their unique customs and traditions, manifesting prominently in their daily lives, attire, and architecture. One of the most iconic features was the traditional male hairstyle known as "Shaving the Front and Braiding the Back." This practice symbolized allegiance to Manchu traditions and was mandatory for men across all societal strata during the Qing Dynasty. Similarly, women adhered to modest dress codes, notably seen in the elegant…

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…

Have you ever heard of Morning Wine? This phrase might sound unfamiliar, but a quick search on platforms like Bilibili or Douyin will reveal videos with hundreds of thousands or even millions of views—scenes depicting a leisurely meal in the early hours, complete with small glasses of wine and a table laden with dishes. This tradition of enjoying a relaxed breakfast with a few drinks has quietly captured the admiration of many, drawing young people to regions like Hubei, Sichuan, and Chongqing, where Morning Wine culture thrives. In the heartlands of China, beyond the bustling cities and serene countryside, lies a breakfast tradition steeped in camaraderie and cultural richness—the practice of Morning Wine (晨酒). Contrary to its name, Morning Wine is not merely about alcohol but embodies a convivial morning meal paired with modest spirits, celebrating local flavors and community ties. Originating along the banks of the mighty Yangtze River, Morning Wine is more than just a meal; it's a social ritual deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. Traditionally enjoyed by laborers and farmers to kickstart their day, it has evolved into a cherished custom celebrated across generations. Beyond Just Morning Drinks: The Allure of Meat At first…

Some people once said that putting on a cheongsam seems to be revisiting the thousands-of-years-old traditional virtues of Chinese women. And when Zhang Man Yu wears a cheongsam, it is precisely to interpret this virtue to the fullest: dignified and intellectual, gentle and generous, implicit and moderate. Every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. As a representative of traditional Chinese women's clothing, with its unique design and elegant charm, the cheongsam showcases the traditional virtues of Chinese women for thousands of years. However, for the same wearing of a cheongsam, some people can be out of the ordinary, while some are plain and unremarkable, and the key lies in the temperament and self-cultivation of the wearer. The appeal of the cheongsam lies in its peculiar oriental charm, and the perfect presentation of this charm requires inner cultivation and bearing. Zhang Man Yu is a good example. Her unique oriental feminine charm allows her to interpret it to the fullest when wearing a cheongsam. Her eyes are graceful, and her steps are elegant, and every expression and gesture reveals the unique charm and quietness of women. Compared with Zhang Man Yu, some young female stars had…

In the vast ocean of fashion, there are always some classic elements that can stand the test of time and become eternal popularity. As a traditional dress for Chinese women, cheongsam has always attracted much attention with its unique charm and appeal. Nowadays, with the change of times and the update of aesthetic concepts, an improved new Chinese-style short cheongsam dress has emerged and become a new favorite in the fashion industry. This short cheongsam dress not only retains the classic elements of the cheongsam, but also incorporates modern fashion designs, which are quite eye-catching. Let's follow Yanran's footsteps to explore the unique charm of this short cheongsam dress! When classic and tradition meet modern elements, there will always be unexpected sparks. This improved new Chinese-style short cheongsam dress is one of the outstanding ones. The designer skillfully combines the classic elements of the cheongsam with modern aesthetics, making this short dress radiate a different kind of vitality and energy. The small standing collar design is elegant and generous, highlighting the noble temperament of women; the combination of the slanting opening and the button makes it not only retain the traditional charm of the cheongsam, but also add a sense…

The 2024 "Silk Road Week" grandly opened at the China National Silk Museum! The highlight of this event is the grand exhibition "The Silk Road's Chang'an," officially launched with over 210 artifacts on display, including more than 50 first-class relics. The exhibition is divided into five sections, showcasing a vibrant, diverse, open, and integrated Chang'an through aspects such as politics, economy, culture, lifestyle, and its long-standing connections with Zhejiang. Chang'an, the ancient name for Xi'an, located in the central Guanzhong Plain, is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Historically, over ten dynasties, including the Western Han, Xin, Eastern Han, Western Jin, Former Zhao, Former Qin, Later Qin, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, and Tang, established their capitals here over a span of more than a thousand years. It is the city with the longest history, most dynasties, greatest influence, and richest heritage in Chinese history. During the Han and Tang dynasties, Chang'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, a crucial node connecting the Eurasian continent. With its thriving economy, splendid culture, and inclusive nature, it became an undeniable global metropolis and a center of cultural exchange between China and the world. This year marks the 10th…

At the recent red carpet of the movie event, Na Ran became the focus of everyone's attention with her astonishing beauty and unique style. She was dressed in a black cheongsam and held a folding fan, transforming into a classic beauty, showing a kind of transcendent and refined classical charm, which made the whole place amazed. Na Ran's black cheongsam is undoubtedly the highlight of her entire look. This cheongsam perfectly outlines her figure curve, showing her elegance and sexiness. The black fabric exudes a mysterious atmosphere and complements Na Ran's temperament. The delicate embroidery and detailed processing on the cheongsam add a touch of nobility and magnificence, making people can't help but admire it. And the folding fan in Na Ran's hand adds a touch of agility and playfulness to her look. The folding fan has always been a symbol of women's elegance and wisdom in traditional Chinese culture, and Na Ran skillfully used this element to create a beautiful woman full of classical charm. She gently shakes the folding fan, sometimes showing a charming smile, and sometimes showing a sharp look, as if telling an ancient and touching story. Na Ran's skin is as smooth as jade, which…

When it comes to eastern beauties, we often think of those beautiful ladies who seem to come out of the pictures. There is such a female star - Gong Li, this legendary female star in the Chinese film industry, has become an idol in the hearts of countless people with her exquisite acting skills and unique temperament. Her cheongsam style is even more deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. Whenever she appears in front of the camera in a cheongsam, it seems that time comes to a standstill. With her exquisite acting skills, she has shaped one classic role after another. And among them, her image in a cheongsam is even more unforgettable. Today, let's unveil the story behind Gong Li's cheongsam together and explore the source of the charm of this eastern goddess. As a representative of traditional Chinese clothing, the cheongsam and Gong Li's temperament complement each other. In "Farewell to My Concubine", the elaborate and delicate embroidery on the cheongsam that Gong Li played as Ju Xian wore, and the opponent scenes with Leslie Cheung and Zhang Fengyi can be called a classic. The embroidery on that cheongsam is exquisite and delicate, and it is…

As one of the representatives of traditional Chinese clothing, the cheongsam carries rich historical and cultural connotations. It originated in China and, after a long period of development and evolution, not only showcases the elegance and nobility of Chinese women, but also has a profound impact worldwide. The cheongsam is the traditional attire of Han women, evolved from the flag attire. Because the material of the flag attire is mostly silk, it is called cheongsam. Initially, it was characterized by the "wrapped collar" of the Manchu people, and later absorbed the essence of the traditional clothing of the Han people in the process of development. In the late Qing and early Republic of China periods, with the economic and cultural development in the Han region and the exchange of Chinese and Western cultures, the cheongsam became one of the traditional clothing of Chinese women and combined with the traditional clothing of the Han people represented by the Chinese cheongsam to become a brilliant and beautiful flower in the clothing and culture of the Chinese nation. It has the characteristics of Chinese national clothing and clothing and culture, and also has the characteristics of Western clothing and clothing and culture. The…

Every year's college entrance examination is a battle that affects countless families. In this battle, parents also play an important role. In their own way, they cheer for the children and hope that the children can achieve good grades in the examination room. Among them, the behavior of wearing cheongsam, and holding sugarcane, or sunflowers for the examination has become a unique scenic line during the college entrance examination in recent years. The cheongsam means "winning the battle with the flag unfurled." On the day of the college entrance examination, many mothers will wear brightly colored cheongsams and cheer for their children outside the examination room. They hope to bring good luck to the children in this way and allow the children to perform smoothly in the exam. Some mothers even go to custom-made cheongsams specifically before the college entrance examination, just to give the children a surprise on this day. Sugarcane means "rising step by step." Some parents will present a piece of sugarcane to the children the day before the college entrance examination, hoping that the children can achieve good grades in the examination, take one step at a time, and continuously make progress. There are also some…

Recently, the Hunan Museum unveiled a 3D digital avatar of Lady Xin Zhui, captivating enthusiasts of traditional Chinese attire. This legendary figure has always sparked endless discussions. Currently on display at the Hunan Museum’s “Women of the Han Dynasty and the Roman Empire” exhibition is a 48-gram Quju robe that has never been exhibited before, adding a touch of legendary charm. Let’s journey back to the summer of 1972. Lady Xin Zhui, the wife of Li Cang, the first Marquis of Changsha from the early Western Han Dynasty, was unearthed from the Mawangdui Han tombs in Changsha, Hunan. Upon excavation, Xin Zhui’s face was well-preserved, and she was dressed in intricately decorated silk garments, exuding an aura of grace and nobility. However, due to prolonged submersion in the waterlogged tomb, the silk fabrics wrapping her body had fused together. After much discussion, the archaeological team decided to follow the advice of Hunan Provincial Museum’s then-deputy director Hou Liang. They inserted a large wooden board into the side of the wooden coffin, then slowly tilted the coffin towards the board until it was completely flat, allowing them to transfer Xin Zhui onto the board. This method enabled the safe extraction of…

In the magnificent long river of traditional Chinese culture, the cheongsam is like a wonderful flower, exuding eternal charm. Entering the Chinese Cheongsam Museum is like starting a journey through time and space, allowing people to appreciate the unique charm and profound cultural heritage of this classic dress. Here, not only the evolution process of the cheongsam is displayed, but also through one exquisite exhibit after another, we can get a glimpse of the social features and aesthetic changes in the Republic of China era. The Precipitation of History and the Inheritance of Beauty In the depths of the cheongsam museum, there are precious photos of famous ladies and stars in the Republic of China era wearing cheongsams. Their elegant postures and the magnificence of the cheongsams complement each other, forming a series of moving pictures that make visitors can't help but be intoxicated. The bright red satin round flower auspicious dress robe in the Qing Dynasty, with its luxury and solemnity, makes people respectful. As a formal dress for grand occasions under the conditions of the Qing Dynasty ritual system, women could not expose curves like in modern times, and the ingenious concealment of the female curves in its…

In the subways of the city, a group of grandmas wearing cheongsams have become a unique landscape. Though they are over fifty years old, they show the everlasting charm with their confident and elegant postures. These "subway cheongsam grandmas" use their dressing and temperament to interpret for people what true fashion and beauty are. The Charm of Cheongsam: Inheritance and Innovation As a traditional female costume in China, the cheongsam has a long history and profound cultural heritage. With its unique cutting and design, it shows the elegance and graceful figure of women. However, with the change of times, the cheongsam is also constantly innovating and developing. Modern cheongsams retain traditional elements, and incorporate fashionable designs and elements, making them more suitable for modern women to wear. These subway cheongsam grandmas choose the cheongsam as their daily dress, which is not only the inheritance and promotion of traditional culture, but also the display of their own beauty and confidence. They use their own ways to put on the traditional costume with a new style and charm. Tips for Selecting Cheongsam For the grandmas who are older, it is not easy to choose a suitable cheongsam. The following are some tips…

On the fashion stage, age has never been a factor that limits beauty. For women in their fifties and sixties, how to show a young and energetic image is an important topic. In recent years, the Chinese-style modified cheongsam has become a darling of the fashion industry. It not only has a strong cultural heritage but also allows middle-aged women to show a unique charm. Today, we will take He Saifei's dressing as an example to introduce the selection and matching skills of cheongsam for everyone, helping women in their fifties and sixties get rid of the feeling of auntie and show a different fashion side. First, why is the cheongsam suitable for women in their fifties and sixties? Chinese embroidery, highlighting the cultural heritage. The cheongsam with Chinese style is known for its exquisite embroidery craftsmanship. These embroidery not only reflects the craftsmanship spirit, but also allows the wearer to visually feel the quality of the clothes. A well-made Chinese cheongsam, even if the style is not fancy enough, can also show a sense of high-end with its unique cultural heritage. Long skirt design, covering the disadvantages of the figure. Formal cheongsam is usually in the long skirt style,…

Recently, the female characters in the historical drama "The Double" have sparked much discussion with their pearl makeup. Not only do their hair accessories feature pearls, but their faces are adorned with numerous pearls, too, placed on their foreheads, cheeks, and corners of their mouths. Attentive viewers have counted up to 25 pearls on one face, with the least adorned having 8 pearls. This leads to the question: why do they put pearls on their faces? The Trend of Pearl Makeup The practice of applying pearls on the face dates back to the Song Dynasty and was quite popular at that time. Ancient women used rouge and other pigments to decorate their faces or created various patterns with materials like gold, jade, pearls, and colored paper, which they adhered to their cheeks. This practice was known as "Mian Ye (面靥)," with pearl makeup specifically called "Zhenzhu Mianye." Pearl makeup was actually a form of the ornate makeup from the Tang Dynasty, which became fashionable in the Song Dynasty. This trend persisted partly because the Song Dynasty carried on the traditions of the Tang and Five Dynasties periods, where facial decorations were highly regarded. Additionally, influenced by Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism, which…

Peking Opera, which is also called Beijing Opera, is a Chinese theater style that has been around for hundreds of years. It includes singing, acting, dance, and gymnastics. It began in the late 18th century and has become one of China's most important traditional customs. But what is it about Peking Opera that makes it so interesting and different? Let's learn more about the methods and practices that make this art form unique. How Peking Opera Began and How It Has Changed Over Time In the 1790s, four Anhui opera troupes came to Beijing to play for the royal court. This is where Peking Opera got its start. Over time, these troupes mixed styles from around the world with Beijing's own style, which is what we now call Peking Opera. The art form did very well during the Qing Dynasty and kept changing by taking parts from other opera styles and folk arts. Even though it had problems during the Cultural Revolution, Peking Opera has come back to life and continues to amaze people all over the world. Traditional Asian Theater Music Traditional Asian theater music plays a vital role in setting the stage and enhancing the storytelling of various…