If you like Hanfu, you may have seen all kinds of Hanfu jacket, But maybe you can't tell the difference between Zhiduo (直裰), Daopao (道袍), and Zhishen (直身), because they all look almost the same from the outside, but in fact, there are a lot of differences in the details, so let's get to know the "Zhiduo" today!   [Structure and History of the Hanfu Jacket: Zhiduo] Zhiduo (直裰, also be called 直掇), has several key features: The collar shape is Jiaoling Youren (交领右衽, mean: crossed collars, tying to the right), Can be sewn a Huling (护领, sewn-on the collar area, mostly white and varying in width, to protect the collar from wear and tear and stains. In ancient times, the Huling was easy to dismantle and often replaced. Most of the Huling in contemporary Hanfu costume is preserved as a traditional feature.) on the collar. The making method of Zhiduo: Tongcai (通裁, cut in one piece, no seams on top and bottom). Usually narrow sleeves, but also straight or pipa sleeves. It is knee-length, and the length of the garment and the width of the sleeves vary according to the wearer's needs. The body of the garment is slit…

This article introduces a typical outfit from the late Ming Dynasty, which is around the 16th to 17th century for you. Let's see how to wear Hanfu - the long shirt and Ma Mian skirt suit. The top is a long shirt with a standing collar also known as a Mandarin collar, pairing it with a Ma Mian skirt which translates to horse face skirt, it’s the single most representative skirt of the Ming Dynasty.   The History of Ma Mian Skirt & the Meaning Behind the Name Ma Mian Qun literarily means Horse Face Skirt, but it actually has nothing to do with a horse’s face, the term 'Ma Mian' in ancient China has another meaning, it refers to the defensive structure that projects outward on city walls, which are located at regular intervals. A Ming Dynasty scholar labelled the rectangular area of the skirt Ma Mian because it looks like the structure. And today we call this type of skirt Ma Mian skirt.   Characteristic of Ma Mian Skirt? When the skirt is laid flat, we can see three such structures, we call it Qun Men (裙门) or skirt door today, with another door hiding behind in the…

Today's article introduces a Ming Dynasty style Hanfu suitable for summer, it is a sheer fabric parallel opening Hanfu shirt with a standing collar. Now let’s take a look at the history of this outfit and how to wear it.   History of Sheer Fabric Shirt In ancient China, it was quite common for men to be bare-chested during the summer, but of course, this was not the case for ladies, so they would wear fewer layers and sheer fabrics inside of their homes. You might have seen this particular style of Hanfu been called many different names in Chinese, so let’s first quickly go through these names and their origins. The standing collar was a popular element in women’s fashion during the late Ming Dynasty, so according to the naming conventions of the Ming Dynasty, this style can be described as "竖领对襟纱衫", which translates into sheer fabric parallel opening shirt with standing collar. Ladies commonly wore this inside of their homes or in private areas as it is sheer and informal. During the Qing Dynasty, this style was labeled as Pi Feng (披風), which is a type of outerwear, the materials used became thicker and heavier, making them more…

Aoqun(袄裙), most commonly wore during the Ming Dynasty. Let’s take a look at the individual pieces and how to wear them.   The History of Aoqun The word Aoqun translates into a lined top and skirt, it is one of the earliest and most basic forms of Hanfu. This style was developed as early as The Warring States period (475 BC) as seen on these clay figurines, and it evolved throughout the dynasties. By the mid to late Ming Dynasty, it had become the most commonly-seen design for fall-winter clothing among wealthy families and the royal court. There are also many historical relics available for us to study.   Wear the Skirt of Aoqun Aoqun is outerwear, so people usually wear inner garments made of cotton or linen material underneath. During the Ming Dynasty, women usually wear Mamian skirts or pleated skirts, this one is a one-piece half-pleated skirt with the pleats only on top, and embroideries on the bottom, as well as on the belts. There are usually two types of one-piece skirts, one style you insert the belt through a hole in the middle, the other style uses an extra set of ties. This skirt doesn’t have either…

As winter approaches, more and more Hanfu enthusiasts are focusing their attention on the Ming style Hanfu. Whereas in the Ming style Hanfu costume, the combination of an Ao (袄, jacket) on top and a Qun (裙, skirt) on the bottom is especially popular. Ao has several types of collars, and today we are focusing on the standing collar today, briefly introduce the history and how to wear it.   History of the standing collar  Some of you might recognize the standing collar as the mandarin collar, most people think the standing collar is derived from Qing Dynasty Manchurian dress, also known as the cheongsam or qipao, but it is actually originally invented and passed down from the Ming Dynasty, the dynasty before the Qing Dynasty, it is a part of the hanfu system and was later on adapted into Manchurian dresses, and today it’s widely known in the world as the mandarin collar, and recognized as one of the most distinctive features of Chinese clothing. Do you remember this Ming Dynasty painting? Almost every woman and child are wearing the cross collared Aoqun, showing how popular this style was at that time. However, when we look more closely at…

Every hot summer, many girls will feel that Song-style Hanfu is the first choice for this season, indeed, with the cool and soothing touch of skin, many people will be willing to choose Song-style Hanfu to spend the summer. In fact, in addition to the Song-style Hanfu, the Ming-style Hanfu is also a kind of "Summer Hanfu"! Even in the summer heat, Ming-style Hanfu can still "make a splash"!   The difference between Ming-style Hanfu and Song-style Hanfu Song-style Hanfu: Song Hanfu is the most suitable Hanfu for summer because it is the most simple Hanfu. Due to the background of the Song Dynasty, Song Hanfu are mainly slim and long, with narrow sleeves and cross collars. The "Beizi" and "Song trousers" are the main styles of Hanfu in the Song system. Ming-style Hanfu: In the beginning, the Ming Hanfu has always been regarded as a noblewoman's Hanfu, and because the Ming Hanfu is mostly based on horse-faced skirts, its craft is complicated plus the fabric and silk are expensive, so the price of Ming Hanfu has always been high. The "long jacket" and "short jacket" plus the "horse-faced skirt" also became the main style of Hanfu in the Ming…

The Ming Dynasty, one of the most civic-minded dynasties in China. From the literary works and historical records of the Ming Dynasty in circulation today, it can be seen that the dress culture of the Ming Dynasty also reached a relatively developed level. In traditional Chinese culture, the Chinese Ming Dynasty women's makeup, with a strong emphasis on subtlety and inner cultivation. Come along and enjoy this set of photos about Hanfu girls wear the Ming Dynasty costume.

The style of the Ming Dynasty Hanfu is slender and very suitable for photography.

A series of pictures, about Ming Dynasty clothing.

Today, I want to share the photos taken by Liang Xiaosuan, about the Ming Dynasty men's robe.

August 23 is the "Chu Shu (处暑)" in China's 24 solar terms, "处" is mean: "leave", "暑" is mean that "summer". It means that the heat of summer has passed and the prelude of autumn has slowly opened. Today, I bring you some suggestions on the style of Hanfu. They are suitable for wearing when the weather is slightly cooler. Stand collar ao dress (立领袄裙) The weather starts to cool down, so we need to keep warm in early autumn. Stand collar Ao dress fabric selection is generally moderate thickness, if cold can also be appropriate in the clothes wearing clothes to keep warm. Duijin ruqun (对襟襦裙) In autumn, mountain flowers are romantic and suitable for wearing a pair of Duijin ruqun to go out. And the Duijin ruqun is more convenient to handle, if you go out, the action is also more convenient. Crossed collar ruqun (交领襦裙) The crossed collar ruqun is warmer than the skirt, and you can wear thermal underwear under the jacket. In the cool weather. Vertical collar Cape ( 竖领披风) The vertical collar cape is lighter than the stand collar Ao dress. It can also wear a sling, or warm clothes, if the weather is…

In the heart of a foreign land, a unique experiment in cultural diplomacy is unfolding. What began as a simple reality show about running a Chinese restaurant abroad has evolved into a powerful vehicle for showcasing China's rich cultural heritage and modern innovations to the world. This phenomenon, known as "Guochao" (国潮) or the national trend, is captivating audiences both at home and abroad, proving that there's a growing global appetite for Chinese culture served with a side of modernity. From Empty Tables to Culinary Diplomacy: The Rise of a Cultural Phenomenon When the doors of the Chinese restaurant featured in the show first opened, the partners faced empty tables and uncertainty. However, as word spread about the unique dining experience on offer, curious diners began to flock in. What sets this restaurant apart isn't just its authentic Chinese cuisine, but the immersive cultural experience it provides. Diners are greeted by a team of young, enthusiastic partners who not only serve food but also act as cultural ambassadors. From the moment guests enter, they're enveloped in an atmosphere that blends traditional Chinese hospitality with modern flair. The menu itself is a journey through China's culinary landscape, featuring dishes that tell stories of…

The 2024 Cologne Game Show, the world's largest gaming exhibition, has concluded with record-breaking statistics. This year's event drew over 1,400 exhibitors and attracted more than 300,000 gaming enthusiasts from around the globe, setting a new benchmark for the industry. The 2024 edition of the Cologne Game Show marked a historic milestone with the largest-ever contingent of Chinese gaming companies showcasing their latest creations. Among the 37 Chinese exhibitors were major players like Tencent, miHoYo, Paper Games, Xishanju, and Lingyou Technology, presenting a slew of influential titles such as "Delta Force" (三角洲行动), "Arena Breakout: Infinite", "Honkai: Star Rail", "Nikki: Dress Up Queen" (胜利女神：妮姬), and "Shadow Blade Zero". This impressive lineup drew considerable international attention and crowds eager to experience these games firsthand. Tencent's showcase was particularly noteworthy, featuring over 20 products from its global studios. One of the standout titles was "Delta Force", a cross-platform tactical shooter developed by Tencent's Timi Studio. The game saw significant buzz, topping Twitch's live-streaming charts and climbing to eighth place on Steam's wishlist rankings. With a staggering 30 million pre-registrations and a domestic release slated for September, "Delta Force" is poised for major success. Tencent's Level Infinite also unveiled "Dune: Awakening", an eagerly anticipated open-world MMO that…

The release of the groundbreaking game "Black Myth: Wukong," (黑神话：悟空) inspired by the classic Chinese novel"Journey to the West", has sparked a tourism boom in China. This innovative AAA game has not only captivated gamers worldwide but has also significantly boosted interest in the real-life locations depicted in its vast and enchanting world. On August 20, 2024, travel data highlighted an unprecedented surge in tourism to Shanxi Province, a key location featured in the game. According to Meituan, tourism interest in Shanxi's attractions spiked by 156% compared to the previous period. Ctrip reported a notable increase in searches for Shanxi's destinations, while Tuniu identified popular cities like Taiyuan, Datong, and Linfen as hotspots. Qu Naer highlighted top sites such as the Yungang Grottoes and Mount Wutai, indicating that "Black Myth: Wukong" is influencing travel decisions and directing tourists to these culturally rich sites. This game's success underscores a growing trend where cultural intellectual properties (IPs) are not only enhancing the gaming experience but also driving real-world tourism. Much like how the TV series"My Almaty" ignited interest in Xinjiang, It is making Shanxi's landmarks desirable travel destinations. The fusion of gaming with cultural tourism creates a powerful synergy, enriching both the gaming experience and real-life travel.…

The fusion of traditional Chinese culture with cutting-edge technology has given birth to a phenomenon known as "Guochao" or "national trend." This movement is not just reshaping domestic consumer preferences but is increasingly making waves on the global stage. As China's cultural confidence grows, so does its ability to export its unique blend of heritage and innovation to the world. Guochao Goes Global: The Evolution of a Cultural Powerhouse The Guochao (国潮) movement has come a long way since its inception. What began as a resurgence of interest in traditional Chinese aesthetics has evolved into a sophisticated industry that leverages technology to create products and experiences that resonate with both domestic and international consumers. The upcoming Liangzhu (良渚) 2024 Tech Guochao Industry Conference, scheduled for October 17-20 in Hangzhou, stands as a testament to this evolution. Since its debut in 2021, the conference has been at the forefront of defining and redefining what Guochao means in the context of a rapidly changing global marketplace. The inaugural event introduced the concept of dual drivers - culture and technology - propelling the Guochao movement forward. Subsequent conferences expanded on this foundation, exploring themes such as the global potential of Chinese brands along the Belt and Road…

When Dreams Collide with Reality: The Cost of Rapid Change In the twilight of the 20th century, as the world teetered on the brink of a new millennium, a small town in northeastern China became the unlikely stage for a tale that would resonate with generations to come. Two young men, their spirits aflame with desperation and desire, made a decision that would alter the course of their lives forever: they would rob a bank. This audacious plan, born from the depths of youthful restlessness and societal upheaval, caught the attention of filmmaker Jia Zhangke (贾樟柯). The result was "Platform" (2000), a cinematic masterpiece that not only brought the newspaper story to life but also held a mirror to the complex relationship between individuals and society at the turn of the century. At its core, "Platform" (站台) is a story of youth unmoored. Set against the backdrop of China's rapid economic transformation in the 1980s and 1990s, the film follows a group of young people as they navigate a world that seems to be changing faster than they can adapt. The central characters, Cui Mingliang (based on the real-life bank robber) and Zhang Jun, embody the hopes, fears, and frustrations of a generation…

In the heart of Fujian Province, nestled in the city of Fu'an, lies a village where a centuries-old tradition still thrives—Guanpu (官浦), the birthplace of the exquisite Guanpu Oil Paper Fan. Before the era of electric fans and air conditioning, these fans were an indispensable companion for the people of Fujian and the surrounding regions, providing not just relief from the summer heat but also a connection to their cultural heritage. Though many artisans abandoned the craft in the late 20th century, today, Guanpu Oil Paper Fans are experiencing a revival, celebrated as symbols of craftsmanship, culture, and cool, refreshing breezes. The significance of these fans extends beyond their functional use. They represent a bridge between the past and the present, a tangible link to a way of life that has largely been lost in the rush of modernization. In a time when so much of our world is dominated by mass production and disposable goods, the meticulous handcrafting of a Guanpu Oil Paper Fan serves as a reminder of the value of patience, skill, and tradition. The Craftsmanship Behind the Fan The creation of a Guanpu Oil Paper Fan is a labor of love, involving over 36 meticulous steps…

If the allure of Shangri-La has always been on your bucket list, it's time to discover Muli (木里), an equally enchanting but lesser-known destination nestled along China's Route 227. Far from the crowds and commercialization of popular Tibetan regions, Muli offers an authentic and immersive experience, often described as Tibet's "Rookie Village." Here, you'll find vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, devout locals spinning prayer wheels, serene alpine lakes, and majestic snow-capped peaks—all set against a backdrop of rich Tibetan culture and breathtaking natural beauty. The Mystical Origins of Muli Muli, often referred to as the "Source of Shangri-La," has long been shrouded in mystery and legend. A century ago, American-Austrian explorer Joseph Rock made several expeditions to this remote area, chronicling his experiences in a way that painted Muli as a hidden paradise—a "garden visited by God," a "Shambhala on Earth." These accounts inspired British author James Hilton to pen the novel Lost Horizon, which immortalized the concept of Shangri-La. However, as adventurers retraced Rock's steps, they realized that the true location matching his descriptions was not the modern Shangri-La city but rather the secluded region of Muli. Muli remains one of the most pristine areas in Western…

A Path Towards Agricultural Innovation At 31, Kong Qi (孔七) from Rwanda is not just a student but a symbol of agricultural transformation. A doctoral student at Anhui Agricultural University, Kong has made it his mission to bring modern agricultural techniques back to his home country. Specializing in maize breeding, he arrived in China in 2019, supported by a Chinese government scholarship. Today, he is pursuing a Ph.D. while working on research that has the potential to change the agricultural landscape in Rwanda and beyond. Kong's research focuses on studying the effects of high temperatures and drought on maize pollen, aiming to develop heat- and drought-resistant varieties. His work couldn't be more relevant in today's world, where climate change is threatening food security, especially in countries like Rwanda, where maize is a staple crop. "Back home, maize is a vital crop, but agricultural technology is still quite underdeveloped. China has advanced techniques and is willing to share them with countries that need help. I want to take this knowledge back to Rwanda and contribute to the development of our agriculture," Kong explains. His journey from Rwanda to China is more than just an academic pursuit—it's a mission to improve food…