When spring arrives, so does that overwhelming drowsiness. Some of us reach for an iced coffee, while others hit the gym to shake off the fatigue. But these modern solutions only offer temporary relief. If we truly want to stay energized, why not take a page from ancient wisdom? From the traditional lifestyle of "rising with the sun and resting at dusk" to the proactive health philosophy of "preventing illness before it arises," our ancestors mastered the art of well-being. Let's explore their secrets through ancient artifacts and uncover seasonal health tips that still applies today. Spring: Wake Up Your Body with Daoyin Exercises The Huangdi Neijing (黄帝内经), an ancient Chinese medical text, states: "In the three months of spring, one should go to bed late and rise early, take walks in the courtyard, and embrace the vitality of the season." This advice highlights the essence of spring wellness—waking up early and engaging in physical activity to rejuvenate the body. Over 2,000 years ago, people already practiced a form of breathing-based exercise known as Daoyin (导引), an early form of qigong. The Daoyin Tu (导引图), an ancient scroll excavated from the Mawangdui (马王堆) Han tombs, depicts 44 figures performing various…

In the midst of London's bustling underground, commuters may stumble upon something unexpected—Chinese poetry. Among the verses that quietly accompany passengers through their daily commutes is a piece by the renowned poet Bei Dao (北岛): I am you a stranger on the sidetracks Waiting for the season to harvest blades of light Sending letters though tomorrow has no address This excerpt comes from Bei Dao's latest autobiographical long poem, The Crossroads Journey (歧路行). It has recently been selected for Poems on the Underground, a project founded by writer Judith Chernaik at University College London. The initiative places poetry—both classic and contemporary, from poets worldwide—inside the city's subway carriages, offering a moment of reflection amid the urban rush. Poetry Beneath the Streets According to the Transport for London website, displaying poetry in the Underground aims to make commutes more uplifting and inspiring. Over the years, the project has featured works from well-known literary figures and emerging voices alike. The selected poems are not just displayed on trains but have also been compiled into a published collection, Poems on the Underground. Bei Dao's presence in the Underground is not new. In the 1980s, his poem Drawing (画), written for his daughter, Tian…

Spring, the most poetic artist of all, wields its brush to paint the earth with vibrant colors. If you step into a museum, you might be surprised to find that the artifacts on display also seem to exude the fresh breath of spring.But how did ancient people preserve the beauty of spring? The Green Glassware with Gold Embellishments This collection of lù bó lí (绿玻璃, green glass) dining ware isn't just for feasts—it's practically a limited-edition "Spring Special" art piece. Each item is exquisitely crafted, blending functionality with aesthetics. Take the small oil bottle, for instance. Its slender, graceful silhouette resembles a lady draped in elegant robes. The translucent material gleams softly under the light, reflecting a harmony of colors—refreshing blue, understated white, and luxurious gold. The color combination is effortlessly sophisticated. The small dish is equally mesmerizing. Delicate floral patterns stretch along the edges like winding vines, intertwining with intricate geometric designs at the center. Holding it in your hands, you can almost feel the refined beauty of ancient lifestyles. And then there's the candle stand—a glowing "jade pillar" that embodies the pinnacle of Qīng Dài (清代, Qing Dynasty) craftsmanship. The large plate has a minimalist base, encircled by…

Hey, ever wanted to see a real-life fairy kick butt in ancient China? Meet Liu Yifei (刘亦菲) — the actress who's been slaying wuxia swords, brewing Song Dynasty tea, and redefining warrior princesses since she was 14. Whether you're here for the sword fights or the feels, Liu Yifei's roles are your next binge-watch obsession. Return of the Condor Heroes 神雕侠侣 Aired: 2006 Period Background: Southern Song Dynasty (13th century) Genres: Wuxia, romance, adventure Main Roles: Liu Yifei as Xiaolongnü (小龙女), Huang Xiaoming as Yang Guo (杨过) Adapted From: Jin Yong's (金庸) classic wuxia novel The Return of the Condor Heroes Return of the Condor Heroes isn't just a drama—it's the ultimate wuxia rollercoaster. Liu Yifei's breakout role as Xiaolongnü (Little Dragon Girl) turned her into an overnight icon, and for good reason: this series has everything. Sword fights on bamboo forests? Check. Forbidden romance that'd make Shakespeare sweat? Double-check. A heroine who can kill you with a silk ribbon? Oh yeah. The Setup: Xiaolongnü isn't your average girl-next-door. Raised in the Tomb of the Living Dead (活死人墓—yes, that's its actual name) by her reclusive sect, she's mastered ancient martial arts but knows zilch about the outside world. Enter Yang…

If you've ever wondered why Hu Ge (胡歌) is called the "King of Chinese Costume Dramas," his roles speak louder than titles. From sword-wielding heroes to cunning strategists, he's brought China's past to life for over 20 years—and his shows are a perfect starting point for anyone curious about Chinese history, myths, and storytelling. No frills, no jargon—just great stories that mix action, romance, and a slice of ancient China. Let's break down his best costume hits and why they're worth your watchlist. Chinese Paladin: Sword and Fairy 仙剑奇侠传 Aired: 2005 Period Background: Mythical Ancient China (Wuxia/Xianxia genre) Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure Main Roles: Hu Ge (Li Xiaoyao), Liu Yifei (Zhao Ling'er), An Yixuan (Lin Yueru) Adapted From: The Sword and Fairy RPG game by Softstar Entertainment. Li Xiaoyao isn't your typical hero. He starts as a carefree, slightly lazy innkeeper in a small coastal village, cracking jokes and dodging responsibility. But when his aunt falls mysteriously ill, he's forced to leave home and seek a cure. What begins as a simple rescue mission quickly spirals into an epic adventure. Along the way, he meets Zhao Ling'er, a gentle but enigmatic girl with a secret lineage tied to ancient immortals,…

Unlike Western culinary classifications by courses or ingredients, Chinese cuisine categorizes itself through philosophical flavor balance and geographical personality. The eight recognized styles - Shandong (鲁菜), Sichuan (川菜), Cantonese (粤菜), Jiangsu (苏菜), Zhejiang (浙菜), Fujian (闽菜), Hunan (湘菜), and Anhui (徽菜) - each developed unique characteristics shaped by local topography, historical trade routes, and imperial influences. The eight cuisines follow different culinary principles - Cantonese chefs prioritize Wok Hei (breath of the wok 锅气) through quick frying, while Anhui cuisine employs slower braising methods to extract depth from mountain herbs and preserved goods. Understanding the "Eight Great Cuisines" (八大菜系) provides the key to appreciating Chinese complex edible culture. As we examine each cuisine's signature techniques, historical influences, and philosophical underpinnings, prepare to discover how imperial edicts shaped flavor preferences and how climate dictated regional preservation methods that became beloved flavors. Shandong Cuisine Rooted in the fertile plains and rugged coastlines of eastern China, Shandong Cuisine stands as the grand progenitor of China's culinary traditions, its influence radiating through royal kitchens and humble hearths for over 2,500 years. Born in the homeland of Confucius, this cuisine marries the pragmatism of northern Chinese life with the poetic discipline of ancient rituals, creating…

If you're new to Chinese historical dramas, Zhang Ruoyun's (张若昀) name should be at the top of your list. Forget stiff period pieces—his shows mix sharp wit, high-stakes politics, and characters who feel real, even in silk robes. Whether he's playing a math genius in the Ming Dynasty or a warrior prince in a fictional empire, Zhang makes centuries-old stories crackle with modern energy. Let's cut to the chase: here are his five best costume masterpieces to binge next. Joy of Life 庆余年 Aired: Season 1 (2019), Season 2 (2024) Period Background: Fictional Qing Dynasty-inspired empire Genres: Political intrigue, Historical fantasy, Mystery Main Roles: Fan Xian (范闲): Zhang Ruoyun as a witty, modern-minded nobleman navigating court conspiracies. Emperor Qing (庆帝): Chen Daoming (陈道明) as the enigmatic ruler. Adapted From: Cat Nip's novel Joy of Life. If you've ever wondered what Game of Thrones might look like with a Chinese twist—minus the dragons but packed with biting humor and brainy schemers—Joy of Life is your answer. Zhang Ruoyun's breakout role as Fan Xian redefined historical fantasy, blending time-travel logic, political chess games, and a protagonist who'd feel just as at home in a coffee shop as in a royal palace. Aired in two…

If you're tired of predictable heroes in period dramas, meet Yang Yang (杨洋)—an actor who's equally convincing as a brooding immortal, a sword-slinging detective, or a prince who'd rather solve equations than wage wars. Forget stuffy historical accuracy; Yang's dramas thrive on blending fantasy, wit, and heart. Whether he's floating through xianxia realms or sparring with corrupt officials, his roles feel like invitations to explore China's storytelling traditions. Here's why his costume dramas offer the ultimate historical adventures. Who Rules the World 且试天下 Aired: 2022 Period Background: Fictional warring kingdoms (inspired by ancient Chinese dynasties) Genres: Wuxia, Political intrigue, Romance Main Roles:Hei Fengxi/Prince Feng Lanxi (黑丰息/丰兰息): Yang Yang as a cunning, dual-identity prince balancing court politics and martial arts mastery. Bai Fengxi/Feng Xiyun (白风夕/风惜云): Zhao Lusi (赵露思) as a warrior princess and his equal in wit and combat. Adapted From: Qing Lengyue's (倾泠月) novel Who Rules the World. Set in a fictional world of warring kingdoms (think ancient China meets Dune), the show avoids stuffy historical lectures. Instead, it drops you into a high-stakes power struggle between six royal families. Hei Fengxi isn't your typical prince: by day, he's Feng Lanxi, a sickly scholar calculating tax reforms. By night, he's…

Zhao Liying (赵丽颖) stands as a luminary in the realm of historical and fantasy dramas. Known for her versatile acting, ethereal screen presence, and ability to embody strong female leads, Zhao has dominated China's television landscape for over a decade. This article curates her most iconic costume dramas, offering insights into their historical settings, genres, and cultural significance. Perfect for newcomers to Chinese TV, these recommendations blend rich storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and Zhao's unparalleled charm. The Legend of Lu Zhen 陆贞传奇 Aired: 2013 Period Background: Set in the Northern Qi Dynasty (北齐; 550–577 CE), a short-lived but culturally rich regime during China's chaotic Northern and Southern Dynasties (南北朝; 420–589 CE). This era was marked by frequent wars, shifting alliances, and the rise of Buddhism, offering a dramatic backdrop of political instability and social transformation. Genres: Historical Epic, Political Drama, Female Empowerment Main Roles: - Zhao Liying as Lu Zhen – A commoner-turned-political strategist. - Chen Xiao (陈晓) as Emperor Gao Zhan – A reformist ruler battling court corruption. Adapted From: The novel Nü Xiang (女相, "Female Prime Minister") by Zhang Wei (张巍), loosely inspired by the life of Lu Lingxuan, a historical female official in Northern Qi. Born into a…

Did ancient clothes have buttons? Isn't it too "modern"? Well, buttons did exist in ancient times! They just weren't always called "buttons". Traditional "Jieying Xidai" In ancient Chinese clothing, the most commonly used method was "Jieying Xidai" (结缨系带). It involved wrapping two delicate ribbons around to connect the two sides or front and back parts of the clothing tightly. It was both stable and adjustable in terms of fit. As recorded in "Liji Yuzao" (礼记·玉藻), "Disciples use twisted ribbons to tie knots." "Niu" (纽) in Chinese is related to threads as it has the radical "mi". Uncertain Cases in Qin Dynasty However, there were also some special cases. For example, there were decorations on the Terracotta Warriors that resembled one - character buttons. But some also claim that they were ropes specifically for connecting armor, and this is still in doubt. Development in Tang and Song Dynasties During the Tang and Song dynasties, although ribbons still dominated, the clothing culture was quietly changing. Round - collared robes and some minority Beizi (褙子) gradually incorporated cloth buttons, mostly made by knotting silk fabrics. Some reports now call them "Niupan" (纽襻). Flourishing in Ming Dynasty In the Ming Dynasty, the prosperity of…

Questioning Ancient Hair Volume Did the ancient people have astonishing hair volume? Could they create such high buns with their own hair? Well, it's a joke! The ancient people already had the "baldness crisis" and secretly wore wigs. In fact, the hair volume of the ancient people might not be as thick as that shown in Zhou Fang's Painting of Ladies Wearing Flowers in Their Hair (《簪花仕女图》). The so - called "Yiji" (义髻) in ancient times was the predecessor of the wig buns we see today. The fashion of wearing wigs started among upper - class women, aiming to increase hair volume and create more complex bun styles, similar to today's hair pads. Materials and Styles of Ancient Wigs The common materials for Yiji were hair or alternative modeling materials like wooden pieces. This spiral - shaped Yiji was made of "false hair". Lined with linen, wrapped with palm hair and dyed, it was made into a spiral shape. You could just press it on your head to complete the makeup, showing both simplicity and ingenuity. The materials for making Yiji were diverse, not limited to real human hair. For example, thin wooden pieces were used. This lacquered wooden wig…

Nowadays, young people are into black lipstick. Their families would surely be shocked and wonder about this "weird" aesthetic. But if this trend went back over a thousand years to the Tang Dynasty, you'd be amazed at the "ahead - of - time" makeup looks. People would exclaim, "It's still our ancestors who were the trendsetters!" The "Wu Gao" (乌膏) mentioned by Xi Jun and Mrs. Ma in "The Detective Diaries 2" (唐诡2) did exist in the Tang Dynasty. It was a special kind of lip balm in the "Shishi Zhuang" (时世妆), or the fashionable makeup of the time. According to "New Book of Tang -五行志", during the Yuanhe period of Emperor Xianzong of the Tang Dynasty, women favored a makeup style of "round - bun and cone - shaped hair, no hair ornaments, no rouge or powder, only using Wu Gao to paint the lips, looking like someone who had been crying." Characteristics of the Makeup Even the spider spirit in "Black Myth: Wukong" has the same "Wu Gao - painted lips". This makeup was not just about painting the lips nearly black. It also included drawing eight - character eyebrows, adding oblique red makeup on the cheeks, and…

A Shift Towards Historical Accuracy For years, historical dramas have enchanted audiences with their lavish costumes, intricate sets, and grand storytelling. However, one aspect often overlooked is the accuracy of children’s hairstyles. Many period dramas have traditionally styled young characters with adult-like hairdos, giving them a "miniature adult" appearance that lacks the playful authenticity of childhood. Recently, however, a shift has begun, and productions like Jia Ye (家业), Flourished Peony (国色芳华), and Joy of Life (庆余年) are finally embracing historically accurate child hairstyles, leading viewers to exclaim: "So this is what ancient children really looked like!" The Evolution of Child Hairstyles in Ancient China Ancient Chinese children's hairstyles were far from uniform; they evolved through different stages as the child grew. Similar to modern times, children in historical China had distinct hair grooming traditions, beginning with shaved heads in infancy, moving to partially grown and styled hair, and eventually progressing to more formal hairstyles in adolescence. The idea that children must wear miniature versions of adult hairstyles is a modern misconception that certain period dramas are now correcting. Infancy: The Shaved or Minimal Hair Phase In early childhood, many children had their heads shaved regularly to promote hair growth, a…

If you've ever watched a historical drama and wondered how anyone in those flowing, oversized sleeves could manage to go about their daily life—let alone eat, fight, or even use the restroom—you're not alone. The sight of characters gracefully strolling through scenes, their sleeves billowing out like sails, can seem a bit comical at times. But are these oversized sleeves a true reflection of ancient attire, or just a modern cinematic effect designed for flair? Understanding the "Big Sleeve" in Historical Fashion The term "wide sleeves" or "broad sleeves" has become almost synonymous with traditional Chinese clothing, especially in popular depictions of Hanfu in historical dramas. But here's the first thing to clarify: this feature is not a universal characteristic of all Hanfu garments. Instead, it’s a defining element of the ceremonial or formal robes, often worn by people of high social status, such as royalty or high-ranking officials. The expansive sleeves were meant to highlight the wearer’s identity, power, and elegance, signaling a person’s nobility or importance. Outside of official events or ceremonies, though, everyday clothing was designed for practicality, not drama. The oversized sleeves often seen in TV shows are a more recent trend driven by visual aesthetics,…

If there’s one thing historical dramas love, it’s a good cloak. Flowing, dramatic, and effortlessly elegant, the cloak has become a staple in costume design, draping over generals, scholars, and noblewomen alike. But as striking as they look on screen, one can’t help but wonder—do these cloaks actually keep anyone warm? Take Nirvana in Fire (琅琊榜) as an example. The protagonist, Mei Changsu (梅长苏), spends most of his time wrapped in thick fur-lined cloaks, yet somehow, he always looks like he’s one chilly breeze away from freezing solid. Viewers have joked that he must have succumbed to hypothermia long before the series’ dramatic conclusion. So what’s the deal? Are these cloaks truly as impractical as they seem, or is there more to their historical evolution? Cloaks in Costume Design Cloaks have long been favored by costume designers for their cinematic effect. They add movement to a character, create an air of mystery, and make even the most unassuming figure look imposing. In Nirvana in Fire, Mei Changsu’s fur-lined cloaks emphasize his frailty while still giving him an air of quiet authority. But do these garments serve their intended function, or are they just glorified fashion statements? The answer, unfortunately, leans…

If you spotted a character in a historical drama twirling in a pink, pleated dress and thought, Wow, that looks surprisingly modern, you're not alone. The outfit in question, featured in The Glory (雁回时), closely resembles a contemporary flared dress, but it actually belongs to a category of Ming Dynasty garments known as tieli (贴里). This style, along with the similar yesa (曳撒), reflects a fascinating blend of influences, practicality, and visual appeal—so much so that modern designers could easily take inspiration from it. Tieli vs. Yesa: Not Just for Women At first glance, tieli and yesa might look like elegant, structured dresses, but in the Ming Dynasty, they were primarily worn by men. Both originated under the influence of Yuan-Mongol styles but were later adapted into Han Chinese fashion. The key difference? Yesa features a smooth front panel known as a Mamian (马面), while tieli is characterized by full pleats from top to bottom. These structured garments were designed for mobility, making them popular choices for officials, scholars, and even military figures. While women occasionally wore these garments, it was often as part of cross-dressing trends in dramas or plays, where they took on male roles. Today, it’s not…

As someone deeply passionate about historical clothing and accessories, people often ask me: "Does your knowledge of ancient fashion ruin your enjoyment of period dramas?" The answer is—quite the opposite! In fact, it adds another layer of enjoyment, turning each viewing into a treasure hunt for accurate details (or amusing anachronisms). Take "Nirvana in Fire 2" (琅琊榜之风起长林), for example. The series boasts stunning visuals, but as I watched, I couldn't help but notice a curious detail—the jewelry worn by characters like Empress Xun (荀皇后) and the Grand Lady of Laiyang (莱阳太夫人) bore striking similarities to Ming Dynasty designs. However, their application in the drama was... unconventional, to say the least. It appears that the production team sourced historically inspired pieces but missed the mark on how they were actually worn. Filigree Gold Phoenix Hairpins One of the most eye-catching pieces worn by Empress Xun is a set of three gold phoenix hairpins (累丝嵌宝石金凤簪). These exquisite accessories have a real-life counterpart: they are modeled after jewelry unearthed from Ming Dynasty imperial tombs in the western suburbs of Beijing. These tombs, unfortunately looted and excavated long ago, left behind only fragments of their once-lavish burial artifacts, yet what remains showcases remarkable craftsmanship.…

The opulent red gown worn by the character of Empress Miao in the historical drama The Glory (雁回时) has left viewers in awe. With its vibrant crimson hue, intricate details, and dramatic silhouette, it conjures up images of Dream of the Red Chamber (红楼梦), especially the scene where the imperial consort visits the imperial court in a ceremonial outfit. Could it be a nod to a regal garment from the Ming Dynasty, the mangpao (蟒袍), a dress that exudes both power and ceremony? The outfit Miao Guifei (苗贵妃) wears in The Glory isn't just any costume—it's an interpretation of the mangpao, a traditional Ming Dynasty ceremonial gown typically worn by high-ranking officials and imperial family members. The gown’s structure is a perfect balance between grandiosity and elegance, characterized by its round collar, long robe length, and the iconic mang (蟒) dragon motif embroidered onto the fabric. The mangpao was often reserved for the most important occasions, worn by figures of the highest stature, such as empresses or consorts. In the case of Miao Guifei, the attire suggests not only her high rank but her formidable presence—no wonder viewers felt like this was more than just a royal entrance; it had…

If you've seen the stills of costume dramas like Moyu Yunjian and For the Sake of the Hidden Fragrance, you'll notice that director Yu has a particular preference for one type of clothing style: the shirt and skirt ensemble. It's the most common style in traditional Chinese clothing and also the easiest to mass - produce and replicate. It's like wearing hundreds of different - colored shirts. Can you really not get aesthetically tired of it? Styles of Shirt and Skirt The upper part of the shirt and skirt can be in the styles of cross - collar, front - closing, or shallow cross - collar. The lower skirt is usually a split skirt or a pleated skirt. Simply put, if you change the fabric and color of the upper shirt and the lower skirt respectively, it counts as a new set of clothes. The dynasties when the shirt and skirt were most popular were the Tang and Song dynasties. The styles of the shirt and skirt in these two periods were different. In the Tang Dynasty, the skirt was tied high to the chest, showing a luxurious and noble style. In the Song Dynasty, the skirt returned to the…

The cheongsam, hailed as the 'second skin' of Chinese women, owes its charm not only to its exquisite tailoring but also to the texture of its fabric. The material of a cheongsam directly determines its comfort, aesthetics, and suitability for different occasions. So, what material is the most suitable? This article combines traditional craftsmanship with fashion trends to reveal the golden rules of cheongsam material selection. I. Top List of Classic Materials: Eastern Charm from Tradition to Modernity 1. Silk: A Synonym for Luxury and Heritage Advantages: Silk cheongsams are known for their softness, skin - friendliness, breathability, and moisture absorption. The natural luster can perfectly present the drape and noble temperament of the cheongsam. Traditional silk fabrics such as double - crepe, habutai, and Hangzhou gauze are especially suitable for summer receptions or banquets, looking as light and elegant as a 'walking work of art'. Points to note: They require professional dry - cleaning and should be protected from direct sunlight and friction to avoid snagging. 2. Satin: The First Choice for High - End Cheongsams Features: Fabrics like brocade and antique satin have a natural high - end luster. When paired with intangible cultural heritage techniques such as…