Winsing Animation (咏声动漫), a prominent animation studio from Guangdong, has been making waves at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival! This year, they showcased their new Chinese animation "Into The Mortal World" (落凡尘)， hoping to spark more collaborations with global animation enthusiasts and promote Chinese animation internationally. Yan Bing, Vice President of Winsing Animation, excitedly said, "Our works are the best interpretation of Chinese stories!" In recent years, Chinese animations have been drawing inspiration from traditional culture and boldly innovating. During the MIFA 2024 (Annecy International Animation Film Market), several Guangdong-produced films were highlighted at the Guangdong-European Animation Film Promotion Conference, including the upcoming summer blockbuster "Into The Mortal World." This film has garnered widespread attention in overseas markets. "Into The Mortal World" is based on the Chinese folk legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, one of China's four great folktales. It tells the story of Jinfen, a descendant of the Weaver Girl, who descends to the mortal world to tame constellations and atone for her mother's sins. She unexpectedly allies with Xiaofan, a mortal girl seeking her mother in the divine realm. Yan Bing introduced, "This work brings the mythology of constellations to the big screen for…

On the evening of July 6th, the TV series "Second Encounter" made its debut on streaming platforms like Youku and iQiyi, marking the beginning of its highly anticipated premiere. Starring young actors Song Yiren and Guo Junchen, the series explores the intriguing premise of several youths who find themselves in an ancient setting after time-traveling, where they discover unexpected talents and embark on fantastical adventures. Song Yiren portrays the lead role in the series. In the modern world, her character is a dedicated athlete facing the brink of retirement due to injuries. Raised by a single mother who struggled after the early death of her husband, the protagonist's mother's greatest hope is for her daughter to excel in international sports competitions. However, tensions arise between them regarding the decision to retire. Adding to their challenges, a signboard from their family-owned barbecue restaurant falls on the daughter, triggering the pivotal moment that leads to her time-traveling experience. The narrative unfolds with humor and continuous laughter, establishing a light-hearted and enjoyable tone that characterizes the series as an entertaining and straightforward comedy-drama. Following her time-traveling experience, the protagonist finds herself transformed into the daughter of a wealthy merchant family in ancient times,…

In the heat of summer, nothing soothes the soul quite like a refreshing bowl of green bean soup. From its humble beginnings as a simple remedy for summer malaise to its transformation into a diverse array of culinary delights, green bean soup holds a cherished place in the hearts and stomachs of people across China. Don't Skip Green Bean Soup: A Summer Essential Green bean soup isn't just a beverage; it's a seasonal ritual that signifies the arrival of summer. Simple yet effective, this concoction of boiled green beans and sugar is often dubbed the "national sweet nectar." Its preparation is straightforward: boil the beans until they burst, add sugar, and let it cool. The result? A drink that effortlessly dissipates the summer heat. Due to the abundant presence of polyphenols in green beans, oxidation can sometimes turn the soup into a reddish hue, influenced also by the alkalinity or acidity of the water used. However, this slight color variation does not detract from its refreshing taste. Across China, regional variations add distinctive flavors to this beloved soup. In Guangzhou, green beans are simmered into a creamy paste that seamlessly integrates with the broth, enhanced uniquely by strands of seaweed.…

As the scorching summer days arrive, it is the perfect time to enjoy the blooming lotus flowers. The appreciation of lotus flowers has always been a cherished activity. With the blooming of vast expanses of lotus flowers in Beijing, people are flocking to various spots to join in the admiration of these beautiful blooms. This article compiles 11 of the best places to enjoy lotus flowers in Beijing for you.   1-Yuanmingyuan Park Time: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Location: No. 28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing Ticket: 10 RMB Known as the imperial summer retreat, the Yuanmingyuan Park has a long history of lotus flowers. In the "Twelve Months of Yuanmingyuan Pleasures (June Cooling)," there are descriptions of boating to view the lotus flowers. Recently, the 29th Lotus Flower Festival has officially opened here, where you can see nearly 200 varieties of lotus flowers such as "Green Ru Yi," "Red Terrace Lotus," and "Pink Elf," showcasing a variety of colors. To enhance the lotus viewing experience, Changchun Garden offers water tours where you can sit on lotus-decorated boats, weaving through the lotus leaves for an immersive experience. Alongside the beautiful lotus scenery, there are also cultural activities such…

In today's fashion world, new Chinese-style dressing is gradually emerging as a prominent trend. This style of dressing, which combines elements of traditional Chinese culture with modern fashion concepts, not only showcases the unique charm of Chinese culture but also satisfies modern people's pursuit of individuality and cultural connotation. This article will delve into the rise, characteristics, and significance of new Chinese-style dressing in contemporary society. The Rise of New Chinese-Style Dressing The rise of new Chinese-style dressing is not accidental; it is the result of multiple factors. First, with China's rapid economic development and rising international status, people's sense of identity and pride in their native culture has been growing. New Chinese-style dressing, as a way of expressing cultural confidence, has gained popularity among an increasing number of young people. Second, the revival of traditional culture has provided rich sources of inspiration for new Chinese-style dressing. China has a long history and splendid culture, with elements such as Chinese characters, qipao, hanfu, and embroidery all possessing unique aesthetic value. Designers innovate and reinterpret these traditional elements, integrating them with modern fashion to create new Chinese-style clothing that has both traditional cultural heritage and modern aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the popularity…

In recent years, our fascination with museums has surged to unprecedented heights. What was once a niche interest has become a staple on every traveler's itinerary. But why have museums captured the hearts of so many? Museums offer a journey of endless exploration, where we, like voyagers beyond time and space, immerse ourselves in the aesthetics, passions, explorations, desires, creations, and beliefs that have shaped human civilization over millennia. Admiring the beauty and artistic essence left by countless lives, we marvel at humanity's incredible creativity and imagination. Professor Martin, a Cambridge scholar dedicated to studying Chinese culture, reflects with envy, "I most admire the Chinese people; their relics connect thousands of years of civilization seamlessly." Each museum artifact whispers silent stories, each pattern and motif bearing witness to history. Yet, despite the treasures museums hold, many visitors find it impossible to see everything in one visit. The Monumental "Museum Encyclopedia" and "National Treasure Guide" The recent release of the "Chinese Museum Encyclopedia: Top 10 Museums" has taken the country by storm, selling over 500,000 copies within the first three hours. This masterpiece spans 10 volumes, showcasing 220 iconic artifacts from 10 major museums, accompanied by 2,196 vivid illustrations. It comprehensively…

Summer in Tianjin is synonymous with happiness, especially once you've tasted the exquisite delights of shaved ice. From sweating profusely under the summer sun to enjoying the refreshing coolness, a bowl of shaved ice is just what you need to bridge that gap. Tianjin's Shaved Ice Scene: Bai Shui Shaved Ice and Soulful Toppings In Tianjin, many ice shops switch from selling candied chestnuts in winter to shaved ice in summer, demonstrating the adaptability of local flavors. Some even alternate between selling lamb in winter and shaved ice in summer, with certain shops operating only half the year. Each district in Tianjin boasts its own popular ice shop, usually tucked away in residential areas, offering budget-friendly bowls priced around 10-20 yuan each, enough to satisfy two people. The allure of Tianjin's shaved ice lies firstly in its "ice." There's a local saying, "sugar water frozen into ice," describing the fluffy texture of Bai Shui shaved ice made from old-fashioned ice machines, with dense, delicate ice crystals. What truly sets it apart are the toppings, meticulously crafted from fresh fruit pulps and freshly cut fruits: hawthorn, apricot, red bean, blueberry, mango, pineapple, cantaloupe, strawberry, mulberry, orange, lychee, durian... A bowl of…

The Terracotta Warriors, sleeping for more than 2,000 years, have awakened? A Qin opera opens the show, transporting us to the Loess Plateau. If they hadn't seen it with their own eyes, it would have been hard for many audience members to imagine seeing the Terracotta Warriors and Jewel Gem (A famous Chinese rapper) singing "Marching from the Army (从军行)" on the same stage in their lifetime. "The long clouds of the green sea darken the snowy mountains, and the lonely city looks at the Jade Gate Pass in the distance." Although the ancient tune has changed, the voice still moves people. The "AI Resurrection Summoning Technique" behind this performance is called EMO, which comes from Alibaba Tongyi Lab. With just a photo and an audio, EMO can turn a static image into an exquisite singing video, and accurately pinpoint the ups and downs, rhythm and staccato in the audio. In CCTV's "2024 China AI Ceremony", also based on EMO technology, the Northern Song Dynasty writer Su Shi was "resurrected" and sang "Prelude To Water Melody (水调歌头)" with Li Yugang on the same stage. "AI Su Shi's movements were simple and natural, as if he had traveled through time and…

Sanya, often dubbed the "Hawaii of the East," is renowned as a tourist hotspot. Yet, its reputation as a "New Paradise for Tropical Fruits" remains relatively understated. This coastal city boasts a year-round production of a diverse array of tropical fruits, promising an endless feast for fruit enthusiasts. Sanya's Mango Magic One of the highlights of Sanya's fruit scene is undoubtedly the mango. The city's warm climate, with an average annual temperature of 25.5°C, is perfect for mango cultivation. This favorable environment means that mangoes are available throughout the year, making "mango freedom" a reality for locals and visitors alike. Sanya boasts a variety of mango types, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. The main varieties include Tainong No. 1, Gui Fei (Golden Dragon), Jin Huang, Australian Mangoes, and Ivory Mangoes. Tainong No. 1, originally from Taiwan, is known for its round shape, golden color, and sweet, fragrant flesh. Gui Fei mangoes are large, with a thin seed and a rich, sweet flavor that melts in your mouth. Jin Huang mangoes, which grow at higher altitudes, are prized for their thin seed and thick, smooth flesh, offering one of the highest sugar contents among mangoes. The variety does…

As the highly contested field of costume dramas, this summer season has seen "Lost You Forever Season 2" take an early lead. Last year, "Lost You Forever" dominated the summer lineup, not only securing the highest market share but also launching several newcomers to stardom. This success is a major reason why "Lost You Forever Season 2" has generated considerable buzz even before airing. Before its premiere, "Lost You Forever Season 2" garnered over 9.58 million reservations on Tencent Video, ranking first among upcoming dramas. Within three hours of its release, it reached a popularity index of 28,000 on the platform. According to data, "Lost You Forever Season 2" topped the daily charts for full-episode viewership on its debut day. From a commercial perspective, having numerous advertisements is a hallmark of a hit web drama, and "Lost You Forever Season 2" excels in this area. Each episode features 11 advertisements. According to user-compiled data, "Lost You Forever Season 2" boasts one chief sponsor, five partners, and 70 co-branded business affiliations, setting a new record for advertisement sponsorship in television premieres. Similar to "Joy of Life 2," the premiere of "Lost You Forever Season 2" on Tencent Video also included a…

In the realm of Chinese late-night snacks, barbecue reigns supreme with its diverse regional variations. From the smoky Northeastern skewers to the Yunnan Handful of Barbecue (把把烧) and the robust Western Sichuan hotpot grills, each type of barbecue boasts its own techniques and ingredients. However, amidst this flavorful landscape, there's one standout exception: Xinjiang. Here, barbecue is synonymous with one thing — lamb. Surrounded by prized sheep, Xinjiang has no reason to grill anything else. However, if someone talks about Xinjiang lamb skewers, they're either a local or running a non-local establishment. After reading through the whole article, you will find out why. The Art of Xinjiang Barbecue Ingredients Xinjiang's dominance in barbecue owes much to its natural bounty of local ingredients, especially its lamb. At most barbecue stalls here, the meat is threaded on-site. Picture stainless steel basins brimming with freshly cut chunks of lamb, a mosaic of red and white, fat and lean. Larger stalls have designated skewers, while smaller ones wait for the grill master's free moment for self-threading. For cost-effective vendors, the sequence often alternates between lean and fatty cuts, ensuring each skewer is substantial with five meaty chunks. White lamb fat is a natural oil…

Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Pepper salt is a common seasoning in various regions of China. Toast Sichuan peppercorns and salt over medium heat for about a minute or two until the fragrance of the peppercorns is released, then set aside to cool. In northern China, the method for making pepper salt involves frying Sichuan peppercorns until crispy, grinding them into powder, and mixing them with fine salt. This mixture is typically used as a seasoning for fried chicken or other fried meats. It can be added to the batter of fried foods or sprinkled over fried foods after cooking. Pepper salt is also used in various types of bread, such as pancakes and beef tongue pancakes. It can also be used for barbecuing. Main Ingredients The main ingredients of pepper salt are Sichuan peppercorn powder and salt. Pepper salt is essentially a culinary seasoning consisting mainly of Sichuan peppercorns and salt. To prepare pepper salt, Sichuan peppercorns and salt are mixed together and briefly fried in a pan until fragrant, then removed and allowed to cool before grinding. Pepper salt has a fragrant aroma with a slightly pungent odor when smelled up close.…

In the realm of Chinese cuisine, few ingredients evoke as much nostalgia and debate as pork lard. Used liberally in dishes ranging from stir-fries to noodles, its addition can elevate flavors to a sublime level. In times of scarcity, a pot of rendered pork fat was considered a culinary treasure, enhancing meals with its rich aroma and texture. However, as dietary habits evolve and health consciousness rises, pork lard has faced scrutiny. Modern households increasingly opt for vegetable oils over animal fats, fearing that prolonged consumption of pork lard may contribute to cardiovascular diseases. The Allure of Pork Lard: Flavor and Nutrition Pork lard, the most common animal fat in Chinese kitchens, owes much of its appeal to its distinctive flavor profile. According to senior food inspector Wang Sulu, the unique aroma of pork lard stems from trace proteins and breakdown products of glycerides. Moreover, pork lard contains over 40% saturated fatty acids, which meld with oils, starches, and fibers during cooking, imparting dishes with a crispy, moist, and smooth texture. But does pork lard offer any nutritional benefits amidst its culinary charm? Research by cardiovascular laboratory technician Fu Shufang highlights that pork lard is rich in essential nutrients such…

As we enter June, dramas with female-centric themes are making a strong impact. Both "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" have delivered impressive performances since their premieres, with steadily rising viewership and discussion heat. Interestingly, both shows are narrated from a "great female lead" perspective, focusing on themes of growth, revenge, and even vengeance. If "being a woman is a condition," these two dramas, set in different backgrounds, illustrate this condition through the characters Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei. By examining the protagonists' settings and fate, we can see the next iteration of the great female lead theme and trace the common issues present in female-centric dramas. So, will the future model for great female leads be Xue Fangfei or Huang Yimei? The plots of "The Double" and "The Tale of Rose" are not overly complex. The former depicts a tragic wife who pseudo-reborn and seeks revenge, while the latter revolves around a woman's love story with four men. Both protagonists' stories follow the narrative pattern of female-centric novels: clear character growth, with their pains mainly caused by men. As they grow, the presence of men in their lives diminishes. Additionally, Xue Fangfei and Huang Yimei share some overpowered…

The world of baking has witnessed a revolution over recent years, with a variety of bread types emerging and captivating the culinary interests of many. From the classic toast and pastry bread to bagels, croissants, focaccia, and the increasingly popular rice bread, the spectrum of options has significantly broadened. Among these, rice bread stands out, marrying the soft, chewy texture with a subtle rice fragrance, making it a unique addition to the Asian culinary palate. Understanding Rice Bread: It's Still Bread At first glance, rice bread might seem like a drastically different, exotic variation of traditional bread. However, it remains fundamentally bread. The primary distinction lies in the incorporation of rice or rice components alongside wheat flour. Traditional bread owes its structure to gluten, a protein in wheat that forms a stretchy network when hydrated, allowing the dough to rise and hold its shape. Rice, lacking gluten, cannot independently form this network, necessitating the combination with wheat to produce bread. Rice flour, with its fine starch particles and excellent water absorption, imparts a moist and soft texture to the bread. This characteristic makes rice bread an ideal candidate for incorporating vibrant vegetables and fruits, catering to the modern demand for…

Just as Joy of Life 2 (庆余年2) concluded, The Story of Roses (玫瑰的故事) officially announced its debut on CCTV-8. With national goddess Crystal Liu in the lead, this drama had already captured the public's attention even before airing. In 1981, Chow Yun-fat and Maggie Cheung starred in the film version of "The Story of Roses," which directly broke Hong Kong's art film box office record. After 37 years, Hong Kong romance novelist Yi Shu personally adapted the script for Crystal Liu, setting the story in old Beijing in 2001. The Central Academy of Fine Arts (中央美术学院) where Crystal Liu's character resides is filmed at Beijing's 491 Space Water Platform, not only the former site of 491 Radio but also China's earliest radio station. Many celebrities such as Jing Boran and Roy Wang have also filmed here. Scenes of Crystal Liu rollerblading were shot at Beijing Bell Tower; the dinner scene with Guodong and Roses in Episode 6 took place at Fou-Lu (福禄) french restaurant, one of Beijing's top-tier French restaurants; the hot pot scene with Roses and Guodong's father in Episode 9 was shot at Lao Men Kuai's tripe and beef hot pot, a real-life location. In addition to being…

At Tencent’s annual film and TV showcase, "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" officially announced Li Yitong as the lead actress. This high-profile drama is a collaboration between Tencent Video and Stellar Gravity, with Wang Yixu as the executive producer, Zhang Jialu as the supervising producer, and Zhao Yilong as the chief director. True to its name, "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" centers around traditional Chinese music, innovatively anthropomorphizing ancient Chinese musical instruments, each possessing a unique spirit: the guqin is elegant and solemn, the jade flute is graceful and ethereal, and the pipa is a harmonious blend of strength and gentleness. The essence of the show can be summarized as "Instruments have spirits, and gentlemen master them." What sets "Gu Yue Feng Hua Lu" apart is its collaboration with the China National Traditional Orchestra as the musical advisory unit, marking their first foray into television. This partnership with internationally renowned traditional music experts aims to blend professional knowledge with popular appeal, creating a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. The drama follows Yue Yangyang (played by Li Yitong), the most formidable musician of her time, and undercover musical spirit Shao Yi as they outwit each other and embark on a…

Yu (屿) is the Chinese pinyin for a wonderful island. In the bustling city of Guangzhou, a culinary gem named Yu has recently ascended to the prestigious ranks of the Michelin Guide, securing its first star. Behind this remarkable achievement stands May, an elegant and accomplished woman with a background in oil painting and a decade of experience in the culinary industry. Her journey from an art school graduate to a Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur is a tale of determination, passion, and a bit of rebellious spirit. The Bold and Brave Path of a Chef Had May followed the path laid out by her parents, both art teachers, she would likely be working in the arts today. Instead, she pursued a different route. May's upbringing in an art-centric household led her to study fine arts and graduate in oil painting. However, upon completing her studies, she embarked on her stubborn and brave rebellious phase. Without formal culinary training, May audaciously approached Michelin-starred restaurants, eager to learn and compete. Financial constraints did not deter her ambition to further her culinary education. She entered high-stakes cooking competitions, earning full scholarships and honing her skills. With a fearless attitude, she established her own…

Zhang Yuxi, this female artist who has an extremely beautiful face and extraordinary talents, has always been the focus of everyone's attention. Her excellent performance in the variety show "First Grade" left a deep impression, and her love story with Wang Sicong even made people sigh at her maturity in emotional handling. Especially when she walked out of the country in a gorgeous cheongsam, her elegant posture and noble temperament instantly became the focus of the whole audience, and her name also became a synonym for beauty. Since Zhang Yuxi made her debut, she has won widespread love with her natural beauty. Her clear eyes and delicate features bring visual enjoyment every time she appears in front of the camera. Not only that, the elegant temperament and proper behavior that Zhang Yuxi shows on multiple occasions make her the goddess in the hearts of many fans. Whether at banquets or events, she can always show her own style, whether it is decent dresses or casual clothes, she can show her unique charm. And the charm of Zhang Yuxi in a cheongsam is even more irresistible. On the streets abroad, she was dressed in a yellow printed cheongsam, and the classical…

After the market saw the decline of the once-dominant "palace intrigue" and "time-travel" dramas, similar genres like "family intrigue" and "rebirth" dramas have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Combining the elements of both "family intrigue" and "rebirth," new series have emerged, doubling the dramatic conflicts and emotional thrills that keep female audiences hooked. Last year's hits "Story of Kunning Palace," "Scent of Time," and "Romance on the Farm," as well as this year's "The Double," are all prime examples. But what exactly is the allure of "palace intrigue" and "family intrigue"? And why do "time-travel" and "rebirth" continue to captivate audiences?   Competitive Spirit vs. Intrigue Although "competitive femininity" is often criticized, the "battle of wits" undeniably captivates audiences. Traditional palace intrigue dramas revolve around competitive femininity, where palace women vie for favor, either actively or passively, engaging in a struggle filled with both overt and covert schemes. The distorted human nature and malevolent hearts revealed in these struggles act as a vivid moral lesson in human depravity. The strategies employed by the female protagonist in battling the surrounding enemy forces in the palace provide a lively display of practical wisdom. While competitive femininity may not align with the…