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

On July 9th, the Shanghai premiere of the animated film "Falling into the Dust" (落凡尘) at SHO Shanghai Cinema stirred excitement among viewers and critics alike. For many, it evoked memories of the summer of 2019 when "Ne Zha," (哪吒) a groundbreaking Chinese animated film, set new box office records and redefined the potential of Chinese animation. Could "Falling into the Dust" mark the beginning of another five-year era for Chinese animation? Drawing inspiration from the folk legend of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, "Falling into the Dust" tells the story of Jin Feng, a descendant of the Weaver Girl, who descends to earth to tame constellations in a bid to atone for her mother's sins. Unexpectedly, she allies with Xiao Fan, a young girl determined to ascend to the heavenly realm in search of her mother. This narrative not only breathes new life into mythological themes but also integrates modern elements such as bubble tea and hotpot restaurants into traditional town aesthetics, injecting humor and relatability into the storyline. Director Zhong Ding, an associate professor at Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, transformed the film from its origins as a graduate design project into a full-length feature with the help of Bilibili,…

In a grand collaboration between the Palace Museum and Poly Auction, supported by the Shenyang Palace Museum, the "National Colors and Palace Shades: Colors of Qing Dynasty Court Textiles" exhibition recently opened its doors to the public at the Poly Art Center. This extraordinary display showcases nearly a hundred rare Qing Dynasty court textiles from the Palace Museum's collection, with additional spectacular pieces from the Shenyang Palace Museum. Over ninety percent of the exhibited items are being unveiled to the public for the first time, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Chinese haute couture. The exhibition's opening ceremony highlighted its significance with three distinct features. First and foremost, it focuses profoundly on color. Color, deeply symbolic in Chinese culture, not only reflects philosophical concepts of unity between heaven and humanity but also embodies traditional ritual systems and social order. The Qing Dynasty court adeptly integrated these colors, drawing from the essence of Chinese culture while incorporating the cultural characteristics of various ethnic groups such as Manchu, Han, Mongol, and Tibetan. Secondly, the exhibition emphasizes the preciousness and rarity of its artifacts. Textiles from this era are notoriously fragile, prone to fading over time, making their preservation…

In the midst of summer, the demand for aesthetically pleasing colored contact lenses has surged among young consumers, solidifying their place as an indispensable fashion accessory in daily attire. This year's "618" shopping festival saw a significant uptick in sales of colored contact lenses, with domestic brands leading the charge on platforms like Pinduoduo. Brands such as KalaLaLa and Moucee reported impressive sales figures, reflecting a doubling in revenue compared to the previous year. The trend signals a notable shift towards domestic products, challenging the dominance of imported lenses from Japan and Korea. The allure of names like "Swan Princess," "Twilight Forest," and "Monet's Garden" epitomizes the romantic and fantastical elements driving the latest trends in colored contact lenses. These designs not only reflect the evolving fashion preferences but also highlight the emergence of a new wave of domestic beauty products in the market. Analysts predict that the Chinese colored contact lens industry could reach a staggering 50 billion RMB by 2025, underscoring its growing importance in the beauty and fashion sectors. Breaking Away from Traditional Models Initially, the Chinese market for colored contact lenses heavily favored styles and patterns borrowed from Japan and Korea. However, in recent years, domestic…

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…

Wu Yanni's (吴艳妮) Journey to the Paris Olympics In the realm of athletics, where discipline and determination reign supreme, few stories captivate the imagination like that of Wu Yanni. From her early days in a military family to the bustling tracks of international competition, Wu Yanni has emerged not only as a formidable athlete but also as a cultural icon challenging norms. Wu Yanni's profile on the official Paris Olympics website reads like a testament to her star status. Detailed sections outline her hobbies, including jazz dance, Pilates, and shopping, painting a picture of a well-rounded individual beyond the track. Her family background, education at Beijing Sport University, and proficiency in languages further highlight her diverse interests and accomplishments. The Early Years: Nurturing a Champion Born into a military family, Wu Yanni was influenced by her grandfather's belief that girls should be strong. This upbringing steered her towards athletics from a young age, initially through dance and later through track and field. Her transition to hurdling under coach Yang Hui marked a turning point, shaping her into the athlete she is today. Wu Yanni's journey hasn't been without challenges. A setback during the 2022 Asian Games, where she was disqualified for a…

On July 11th, iQIYI made waves in the entertainment industry with the official announcement of its new immersive survival challenge reality series, "Back to Reality in Ten Days." This ambitious project, which blurs the lines between traditional reality TV and serialized drama, has been the subject of intense speculation since its inception. The hype surrounding the show peaked during its production phase with the mysterious "disappearance of 39 participants," leading to a frenzy of online activity from cast members like Lin Gengxin (林更新) and Zhang Dada (张大大). Now, with the official announcement, fans are rejoicing, eagerly anticipating what promises to be the year's most anticipated reality show. A Fusion of Elements "Back to Reality in Ten Days" is not just another reality show; it's a fusion of free-spirited survival challenges, high-energy obstacle courses, and social exploration. The lineup boasts a diverse cast including celebrities such as Chen Bing (陈冰), Chen Jingke (陈靖可), Michelle Chen (陈妍希), Hou Minghao (侯明昊), Li Gengxi (李庚希), Lin Gengxin , Li Xueqin (李雪琴), Pang Bo (庞博), Shen Yue (沈月), Wang Herun (鹤润), Nicky Wu (吴奇隆), Xing Aowei (邢傲伟), Yao Chen (姚琛), Zhang Dada, Zhang Youhao (张宥浩), and Zhang Yunlong (张云龙). These 39 participants, hailing from diverse backgrounds including esports, tech investors, behind-the-scenes professionals in film and television, fitness instructors, and university lecturers, will undergo…

As the summer breeze wafts in, Youku Anime has specially curated its "Summer Anime Slate," released on July 4th, promising an array of captivating shows. This lineup not only features highly anticipated sequels like "Cang Yuan Tu: Dong Ning Prefecture Side Story," (沧元图:东宁府番外篇) "Shounen Hakumai Zui Shunchi 2," (少年白马醉春风2) "Bai Lian Cheng Shen Special Episode," (百炼成神) and "Shen Mu 2," (神墓2) but also introduces new national style animations such as "Shi Xiong Ah Shi Xiong," "Xian Wu Chuan," and "An He Chuan," alongside the return of classics like "Ultraman Ace," "Crayon Shin-chan 8," and "Armor Hero." Sequels Ignite Anticipation: Continuing the Saga of Acclaimed IPs In recent years, creating sequels within anime universes has become a dominant trend. Leveraging the strength of established IPs aims to recapture the attention of anime enthusiasts and continue the legacy of high acclaim. The return of critically acclaimed IPs in Youku Anime's summer lineup is sure to ignite fervent discussions among fans. Among the highly anticipated sequels in this summer lineup, "Cang Yuan Tu: Dong Ning Prefecture Side Story" stands out with its exquisite character portrayal and innovative Chinese aesthetics. Its premiere day witnessed exceptional popularity across various platforms, topping internal anime charts and making waves on Douyin and Kuaishou. On July…

Wuzhen is undoubtedly one of the most enigmatic tourist spots in China. On the surface, it appears to be a timeless idyll, a picture-perfect representation of a Jiangnan water town. The misty alleys, the damp stone pavements, and the weathered white walls seem to have stepped out of a historical painting. The sight of boatmen rowing their traditional black-awning boats (乌篷船) and elderly women washing vegetables by the river evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. Every element seems to fit the idealized image of an ancient water town. However, beneath this quaint façade lies a hub of modern technology. The seemingly ancient stone pavements conceal a comprehensive network of utilities, including gas, water, and electricity lines, with fiber optic cables laid two decades ago. The traditional boats are equipped with satellite GPS, and even the boatmen and the elderly women washing vegetables are actors. The river itself is an automated marvel, designed to prevent flooding and drought, ensuring the scenery remains picturesque regardless of the weather. The All-Encompassing NPC Experience A visit to Wuzhen feels like stepping into a large-scale immersive theater production. From dawn till dusk, every aspect of life in the town is performed with…

Quanzhou, once the largest port during the Song and Yuan dynasties and the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road, holds a significant position in China's grand history of transportation and commercial civilization. As we celebrate the third anniversary of Quanzhou's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list as "Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China," the fourth episode of "The Way of the Great Country" revisits this ancient city. This exploration not only brings to life the bustling scenes of the ancient port but also showcases the modern narrative of this international harbor. A Historical Harbor of Global Importance In the twelfth year of the Yuan dynasty, the Italian traveler Marco Polo arrived at Quanzhou port. In his travelogue, he remarked, "If a single ship loaded with pepper arrives at any port, here in Citong Port (modern-day Quanzhou), there would be hundreds of such ships." His exaggerated descriptions reflect his awe at the thriving trade in Quanzhou. Recently, another Italian merchant, Jacopo's notes from the Yuan dynasty were discovered, which contained over 300,000 words praising Quanzhou as the "City of Light." This account complements Marco Polo's observations beautifully. Quanzhou has indeed earned such high praise. Historically known as…

"Flames," (烈焰) starring Ren Jialun (任嘉伦), has set ablaze the summer TV lineup with its gripping storyline and state-of-the-art visual effects. Adapted from the popular webcomic "Wu Geng Ji," (武庚纪) the series has not only won over loyal fans of the original but also attracted a new wave of viewers, marking a significant milestone in the realm of Chinese fantasy adaptations. Since its debut in the spring of 2024, "Flames" has dominated streaming platforms, topping charts with an impressive viewership of over 12.84 billion cumulative views. Its success extends internationally, capturing the top spot on iQiyi's international platform in 14 countries and regions, spreading Chinese heroic tales and Eastern culture worldwide. The series' success lies in its meticulous attention to detail and bold innovations. Unlike previous adaptations that often faltered in fidelity to the source material, "Flames" combines faithful adaptation with creative liberties, enhancing the narrative's depth and visual appeal. This approach not only pleased existing fans but also attracted a broader audience intrigued by its immersive world-building and compelling characters. Crafting Visual Spectacles with Precision At the core of "Flames" is its groundbreaking use of visual effects (VFX), which elevate the storytelling to cinematic levels. Unlike typical TV productions, which often rely on a…

The Rise of "Changxiangsi 2" (长相思2) In the midst of China's summer television lineup, one series has captured both critical acclaim and audience fervor: "Changxiangsi 2." Starring Yang Zi (杨紫) alongside a talented ensemble cast including Zhang Wanyi (张晚意), Deng Wei (邓为）, Dai Luwa (代露娃), and Wang Hongyi (王弘毅), this historical drama debuted on Tencent Video with unprecedented anticipation and quickly became a focal point of the entertainment industry. The Phenomenon of Online Streaming and Audience Engagement "Changxiangsi 2" premiered on Tencent Video on July 8, 2024, and within just three hours, its viewership soared past 27,000, marking an auspicious start. The following days witnessed a steady rise, with the series surpassing 28,000 and 29,000 in subsequent days, eventually earning its place in Tencent Video's exclusive "blockbuster club." Alongside five other top-performing dramas, including "Fan Hua," (繁花) "Yu Feng Xing," (与凤行) "Cheng Huan Ji," (承欢记) "Qing Yu Nian 2," (庆余年2) and "The Story of Roses," (玫瑰的故事)"Changxiangsi 2" distinguished itself through its compelling storyline and stellar performances. Comparative Success: Analyzing Other Top Contenders Each of these dramas brings something unique to the table. "Fan Hua" captivated audiences with its intricate historical backdrop and complex character relationships, leveraging the powerhouse performances of…

In the midst of Shanghai’s bustling cultural landscape, a hidden gem awaits those who seek the fusion of art, coffee, and aesthetic appreciation. The Jingbo Qinhan (Fangxia) (镜泊秦汉（方夏）) Fashion Center, nestled in the tranquil village of Fangxia, introduces visitors to a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese cheongsam elegance and modern creativity. Here, each cheongsam is not just a garment but a testament to craftsmanship and cultural revival. Fangxia Village, located in the serene district of Qingpu, Shanghai, has become a beacon for those who appreciate the intricate beauty of Chinese cultural heritage. The founder, Zhu Ying, a native of Anhui Province with a passion for cheongsam culture, envisioned this center as a homage to traditional craftsmanship and rural revitalization. Her journey from rural artisan to the establishment of Cloudscape Group in Shanghai reflects a dedication to preserving and evolving Chinese traditions. At Jingbo Qinhan (Fangxia) Fashion Center, every cheongsam is meticulously tailored through a process that involves design, pattern-making, cutting, pressing, and buttoning, ensuring each piece is unique. Zhu Ying emphasizes, "Whether enjoying a cup of coffee or donning a cheongsam while exploring our cultural exhibitions, we want every visitor to experience the unique blend of urban and rural charm that defines…

Unveiling the Charms of "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl" In recent times, the silver screen has been graced with the enchanting allure of traditional Chinese aesthetics through animated films like "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl." These cinematic masterpieces not only entertain but also serve as cultural ambassadors, resonating deeply with audiences who find themselves captivated by the hidden "Easter eggs" of Chinese traditions embedded within. "Falling Mortal Dust": Journeying through Celestial Myths "Falling Mortal Dust" takes audiences on an odyssey through the mythical realms of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, set against the backdrop of the starry heavens. Its profound Eastern aesthetics and emotional depth centered around familial bonds have left a lasting impact on viewers, who praise its narrative resilience. The film introduces for the first time the Twenty-Eight Mansions of Chinese traditional culture, each constellation associated with various mythological tales. Characters like the gentle Ox, the fearsome Winged Serpent, and the mischievous Tail Tiger from the Twenty-Eight Mansions come to life on the big screen, weaving a tapestry of celestial intrigue. Embroidery: Stitching History into Art Embedded within the film's visual tapestry is the artistry of silk embroidery. Director Zhong Ding reveals that…

In the sweltering heat of midsummer, alongside rising temperatures, another phenomenon grips the hearts of viewers—the summer spectacle of ancient costume idol dramas, affectionately known as "gu-ou dramas". From the exhilarating finale of "Ink Rain Among Clouds" (云中墨雨), dubbed the "nation's stress-relieving drama", in late June to the current dominance of screens by "The Year of Duhua" (度华年) and "Chang Xiangsi 2" (长相思2) across various platforms, high-quality series are ceaselessly capturing audience interest. This surge in popularity marks a significant revival for ancient puppet dramas, positioning them once again as the paramount genre during the summer season, igniting a fervor among viewers. For Tang Tang, a self-proclaimed "avid enthusiast" of ancient puppet dramas among women born in the 1990s, titles like "Cang Lan Jue" (苍兰诀), "Chang Feng Du" (长风渡), and "Zhou Sheng Ru Gu" (周生如故) hold special significance. Since 2013, she has closely followed the release of various ancient puppet dramas in the entertainment market. "Overall, the market for ancient puppet dramas is a mixed bag," she comments. "While there have been hits like 'Dream Record' and 'Chang Xiangsi', there's also a fair share of poorly made, repetitive 'assembly line products'." Ancient puppet dramas, blending traditional costume dramas with idol…

In recent years, the production of historical dramas has increasingly emphasized the organic fusion of traditional cultural elements with storytelling, showcasing a more sophisticated and heartfelt approach to presenting traditional culture. From my perspective, the application of traditional cultural elements in historical dramas can be categorized into three levels: external, superficial, and internal depths.   Authentic Historical Restoration Historical dramas have shown a growing emphasis on meticulous attention to costume and set design, striving for a faithful reconstruction of historical accuracy. Some productions adhere strictly to scholarly research, almost replicating characters' attire and appearances directly from ancient texts and paintings. This approach allows viewers to experience the true aesthetic charm of traditional Chinese clothing. For example, in "Serenade of Peaceful Joy," the portrayal of Emperor Renzong of Song (played by Wang Kai) closely mirrors historical portraits, achieving a striking visual realism akin to a 3D print from ancient paintings. Beyond costumes, headwear serves as a crucial element of visual aesthetics for female characters. Instead of exaggerated hairstyles, integrating traditional intangible cultural heritage elements into hair accessories creates a sophisticated and refreshing visual appeal. For example, in "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace," the use of Tian-tsui ornaments on the hair…

In the realm of television drama, the wait for the second season of "Longing Heart" (长相思) has been a topic of anticipation among fans for nearly a year, following the resounding success of its first season. Recently, the official Weibo account of "Longing Heart" announced that Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on July 8th, featuring the original cast. According to a report from Cover News on July 3rd, the series will exclusively debut on Jiangsu TV on the same date. Let's rewind to July 2023 when the entire 39 episodes of "Longing Heart" Season 1 premiered on online streaming platforms. Shortly after its release, the series gained immense popularity, surpassing 33,000 in heat value due to its unique storyline, distinct characters, and high production standards. It became one of the hottest dramas of the summer of 2023. With the announcement of the premiere date for Season 2, glimpses of its standout scenes and climactic moments have already heightened audience expectations through teaser trailers. Particularly poignant scenes, evident from the trailers, showcase the emotional entanglements of the characters. Jiangsu TV has further indicated that they will innovate by airing both seasons consecutively: re-airing Season 1 during daytime slots and premiering…

As graduation season arrives once again, a new trend is sweeping through the world of tea beverages: gardenia flowers. In the realm of Chinese tea culture, there has been a recent surge in interest surrounding the once overlooked Zhi Zi Hua, also known as Gardenia. This traditional flower has become a centerpiece for modern tea brands seeking to revolutionize their offerings by infusing unique flavors and scents. In this article, we will explore the rise of Zhi Zi Hua in the tea industry, its impact on consumer preferences, and its potential to reshape traditional tea culture. The Rise of Gardenia in Tea In recent months, a wave of new tea drinks featuring gardenia has taken the market by storm. Brands like Nayuki Tea have introduced combos like "Perfumed Gardenia Green," blending the delicate fragrance of gardenia with refreshing tea bases. Meanwhile, Auntea Jenny's Coconut Milk with Gardenia Tea has delighted customers with its creamy texture and floral undertones. Major players like Heytea and Auntea Jenny have all incorporated gardenia into their latest beverage offerings, cementing its status as a top contender in the tea industry. But why gardenia, you might ask? Gardenia's journey into the realm of tea beverages isn't…

In the vast expanse of Inner Mongolia's Siziwang Banner, amidst the serene landscapes of Amugulang Grassland, a historic moment unfolded on June 25th at 2 PM. It was here that Hu Hao, the chief designer of the Chang'e 6 mission, welcomed back the long-awaited "Moon Maiden (六姑娘)" after 53 days of anticipation—the Chang'e 6 probe, marking humanity's first-ever lunar far-side sample return. Unveiling the Triumph Positioning, searching, checking status—the returner functioned flawlessly, achieving a resounding success for the mission, finally putting Hu Hao's anxieties to rest. Even as Chang'e 6 faithfully brought back nearly 4 kilograms of lunar soil from the far side of the moon, Hu Hao remains tirelessly occupied these days: escorting the returner back to Beijing, overseeing the unpacking of the lunar samples, planning future orbital experiments, and witnessing the initiation of scientific research on the lunar samples. Amidst his busy schedule, he shared with Xinhua News Agency reporters for the first time the untold stories of Chang'e 6. Technological Feats Collecting 1935.3 grams of the first human lunar far-side sample, and achieving a more precise re-entry than Chang'e 5, international payloads also harvested a scientific data "bonanza". Discussing the accomplishments of the "Moon Maiden," Hu Hao's…

In the realm of modern entertainment, where reality television often leans towards sensationalism and drama, Tencent Video's latest offering, "Refreshing Expedition," stands out as a refreshing breath of cultural exploration. Premiering on July 10th, this reality show has captured the hearts and minds of viewers by blending star power with an earnest quest to rediscover and celebrate China's rich ethnic heritage. At the forefront of "Refreshing Expedition" (焕新环游记) is its reunion of the cast from the iconic series "Empresses in the Palace," known to Chinese audiences as "Legend of Zhen Huan." (甄嬛传) The reunion of actresses like Cai Shaofen (蔡少芬), Tao Xinran (陶昕然), and Lan Xi (斓曦) after 14 years, set against the backdrop of the evocative Great View Garden, has sparked a wave of nostalgia among fans. This reunion is not just a gathering of celebrities but a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of cultural milestones in television and storytelling. However, what truly distinguishes "Refreshing Expedition" is its commitment to exploring and preserving ethnic cultures across China. Unlike typical reality shows that rely solely on celebrity antics, "Refreshing Expedition" integrates cultural education seamlessly into its format. Through thought-provoking questions about traditional practices and artifacts, such as the components of Shu-Han glue or the origins of floating light…