Rediscovering Tang Dynasty's Golden Era Through Epic Cinema In the heart of contemporary cinema, the allure of historical epics continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Among the latest entries is "Seal of the Gods: The Return of the Painting Sage," (封神：画圣归来) a mesmerizing film set against the backdrop of the illustrious Tang Dynasty. Directed by Qin Kai, produced by Shi Xiukun, and featuring a stellar cast including Gong Xiaojun (龚小钧), Huang Yilin (黄一琳), and Li Xiaoning (李肖宁), this cinematic masterpiece breathes new life into ancient legends and cultural marvels. Blending History, Fantasy, and Artistry: The Making of a Modern Epic At its core, "Seal of the Gods" weaves a tale of intrigue and heroism in the vibrant capital of Tang China, Luoyang. The storyline revolves around Pei Ming, a guardian of the Jinwu Guard, who retrieves the fabled painting "Thousand-Mile Incomplete Mountain" from the Turks. This painting, with its mystical ties to the Seal of the Gods, draws the attention of the revered painter Wu Daozi, portrayed by Gong Xiaojun, and sets in motion a chain of events that tests their mettle against dark conspiracies and supernatural forces. In recent days, the silver screen has shimmered with the release of "Seal of the Gods: The Return…

Guilin, the name alone evokes a sense of familiarity even for those who have never set foot in China. The phrase "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven" has etched this city into the national consciousness, making it a household name across generations. Despite this, in recent years, Guilin might not have stood out among popular tourist destinations. Perhaps its familiarity has rendered it almost too well-known, making it seem over-commercialized and over-developed to some. But is this really the case? Has Guilin truly fallen out of favor? Is it still worth visiting? Absolutely. Guilin remains the unrivaled masterpiece of China's natural landscapes, a timeless and poetic destination that continues to captivate the hearts of travelers. Li River Hiking: A Flowing Ink Painting Hiking along the Li River is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Guilin's landscapes. The trail from Nine Horse Fresco Hill to Yangdi, and from Gaozhou Village to the ancient Guihua Path, offers an immersive experience. Walking along mountain paths, riverside trails, and beaches, hikers can enjoy the most exquisite views of the Li River. The mist-covered mountains and clear waters create a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere, making one feel as if they…

Have you noticed the increasing number of videos showcasing foreign tourists enjoying their time in China? These travelers become enthusiastic advocates for the country, praising its delicious food, convenient infrastructure, modern cities, and immersive historical and cultural sites. This surge in interest can be attributed to China's "144-hour visa-free transit" policy, which allows visitors from over 50 countries to stay in more than 20 Chinese cities for up to six days without needing a visa, provided they hold tickets to a third country. This policy has led to an influx of tourists exploring cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Macau, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi'an, Wuhan, and Urumqi. As these experiences are shared widely online, more foreigners are inspired to visit China. One of the most captivating aspects of their visits is their reactions to Chinese cuisine. Foods that are commonplace to locals often leave foreign tourists astonished and delighted. Let's explore some of the culinary delights that captivate visitors during their 144-hour stay in China. Baozi, Jianbing, and Other Wheat-based Delights Wheat-based foods are universally beloved, making them an easy introduction to Chinese cuisine for many foreign visitors. Items like steamed buns (baozi), pan-fried buns (shengjianbao), and various flatbreads…

there has been a remarkable resurgence of interest in traditional Chinese attire, known as Guofeng Guochao, across various regions in China. Luoyang (洛阳), renowned for its rich historical legacy as one of China's ancient capitals, has emerged as a focal point for this cultural revival. Visitors strolling through the streets of Luoyang can now frequently encounter tourists donning a variety of Tang dynasty and Song dynasty costumes. Whether riding electric bikes, commuting on buses, or capturing moments amidst pavilions and towers, these individuals have become a unique and vibrant addition to the city's cultural landscape. The sight of tourists dressed in Tang and Song dynasty costumes is not merely a nostalgic reenactment but a celebration of cultural heritage brought to life. Luoyang's comprehensive reforms and innovative cultural tourism initiatives have played a pivotal role in revitalizing its historical narratives. By bridging the gap between ancient texts and contemporary city life, Luoyang has transformed its streets and alleyways into living testaments of its thirteen dynastic histories. Luoyang's approach to cultural tourism goes beyond superficial displays of history; it integrates immersive experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors alike. The blend of ancient attire with modern transportation and photography exemplifies this…

Myrica rubra season is upon us, with its fleeting taste lasting just over a week. Even if one were to eat it without restraint, there's always more than can be consumed. This fruit, difficult to preserve, finds its way into wine barrels, where it transforms into a delightful concoction known as Myrica rubra wine. However, some people have taken to using Myrica rubra wine as a medicinal remedy for diarrhea, which is quite far-fetched. What's more concerning is that some individuals allow minors to consume Myrica rubra wine, oblivious to the neurological damage alcohol can cause. This article will further reveal why not recommend using Myrica Rubra Wine for Medicinal Purposes. The Historical Context of "Yi Jiu (毉酒) " The Chinese character for "medicine" (医), in its traditional form "毉," has deep ties to alcohol. Xu Shen's "Shuowen Jiezi" states, "毉, the tool to treat diseases. Derived from 'shaman (巫) ' and ' alcohol (酉)'." Similarly, the "Book of Rites" also mentions "毉酒," clearly connecting ancient Chinese medicine to shamanism and alcohol. In an era when humanity did not understand alcohol's neurodepressive effects, the hallucinations induced by alcoholic beverages were naturally associated with divine revelations and transformative experiences akin to…

When one thinks of Jiangsu's culinary delights, cities like Suzhou and Yangzhou often come to mind. However, Yancheng, a coastal city in eastern Jiangsu, is a hidden gem that offers an explosion of fresh and savory flavors, rivaling its more famous neighbors. Despite its low profile, Yancheng boasts a rich agricultural heritage and an impressive variety of dishes that reflect both its coastal and inland influences. A Breakfast Feast: From Elegant Teas to Humble Pancakes Yancheng's breakfast scene is a carb-lover's paradise, blending the sweetness of Suzhou and the savory richness of Taizhou. From the delicate Jiangnan morning tea to the humble yet satisfying egg pancake, Yancheng sets a table that celebrates simplicity with a burst of flavors. It features a delightful blend of refined Jiangnan morning teas, hearty egg pancakes, and a variety of seafood and freshwater delicacies. Among these, the most notable is the Dongtai Fish Soup Noodles, with its creamy broth that promises an umami overload. This culinary tradition has roots in nearby Yangzhou and Taizhou but has evolved in Yancheng to boast an even sweeter and fresher taste. The fish soup noodles, with their milky-white broth, are a local favorite that perfectly encapsulates the city's essence.…

In the realm of Chinese animation, where creativity and storytelling converge, a new series has emerged to captivate audiences with its blend of modern intrigue and ancient mysticism. "Golden Silkworm Chronicles," adapted from the acclaimed novel "Miao Jiang Gu Shi" by Nan Wu Jia Sha Li Ke Fo, has made its grand entrance onto Youku Anime, promising viewers an exhilarating journey into a world where supernatural powers and urban life collide. At the heart of "Golden Silkworm Chronicles" lies a narrative steeped in the rich tapestry of Miao ethnic culture and the allure of supernatural abilities. The story centers around Lu Zuo, a young man thrust into the tumultuous realm of these powers after inheriting the mantle of the "Golden Silkworm," a title bestowed upon him by his grandmother. Set against the backdrop of a bustling modern city, Lu Zuo's journey unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, drawing viewers into a universe where ordinary lives intersect with extraordinary destinies. Unlike traditional Chinese animation themes centered on cultivation and martial arts, "Golden Silkworm Chronicles" pioneers a new narrative trajectory with its focus on urban supernatural fantasy. This distinct choice not only broadens the genre's appeal but also injects fresh vigor into…

When asked which Chinese provincial capital stays up the latest, many might think of bustling metropolises like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. However, the unexpected answer lies further south—in Nanning, the capital city of Guangxi province. Despite its low-key presence among provincial capitals, Nanning shines brightly in the arena of nightlife, consistently topping charts: from being dubbed the "latest to sleep" city with an average bedtime around 0:55 AM, to ranking first in "night snack vitality" among post-1995 generations according to statistics from platforms like Eleme. Nanning's residents are a busy lot who frequent night markets, indulging in skewers and snails, eagerly anticipating the fragrant allure of the first bowl of "old friend noodles (老友面)." Unlike the trendy stalls found in many cities across China, Nanning's night markets boast traditional eateries that have stood the test of time, offering a treasure trove of flavors refined over generations. In this culinary capital at the southern border, every taste has its moment to shine—whether it's raw beef, rice noodles, stir-fried snails, or the distinctive "old friend flavor" unique to Nanning. Nanning's penchant for nocturnal indulgence isn't just about staying up late; it's a cultural affair that blends local flavors with a tropical twist.…

For those not from konjac-producing regions, the most common encounters with konjac (魔芋) might be in convenience stores. The konjac knots and konjac tofu in oden may not have a distinct flavor but soak up the broth's essence, offering a delightful texture and a sense of healthiness. On snack shelves, the konjac-based "Moyu Shuang," which mimics tripe, and the konjac jelly, known as "konnyaku," are popular items. In the southwest regions of China, where konjac is abundantly produced, it has become a culinary star, transforming in various dishes to win over everyone's palate. How delicious can konjac be? Let's dive in and find out! Konjac's Struggle Against Its Culinary Fate Many people enjoy eating konjac, yet few have seen the plant in its natural form. Konjac belongs to the Araceae family, with a tuberous underground stem that is flattened and spherical, topped with a dimple. It grows a tall spadix, which emits an unpleasant odor when it blooms, attracting insects for pollination. Konjac's growth cycle is long, spanning 3-4 years, during which its tuber becomes rich in calcium oxalate, a toxic substance. Consuming raw konjac can lead to severe vomiting and diarrhea or even kidney failure. Direct contact with unprocessed…

In the period of the Republic of China, Chinese society was in a turning point of changes in literature and art and ideological trends. This change was also reflected in women's clothing. The dressing of women in that era presented the characteristics of the alternation of the old and the new, with both the gentle and restrained of the old era and the Western-style ostentation of the new era, showing a unique personal charm. As well-known women at that time, Lin Huiyin（林徽因） and Hu Die（胡蝶）'s dressing styles even became representatives of the times. Lin Huiyin was a famous talented woman in the period of the Republic of China. She once went to the University of Pennsylvania in the United States for her further studies in architecture and art. Her dressing style combines Chinese and Western elements, showing the ideological state of progressive women in that era. Her dressing often features combinations of short tops with high-waisted pants and long leather boots, which not only appears slender, but also highlights the temperament of independent women. In addition, she also likes to drape the suit jacket over her shoulders, adding to the overall fashion sense. In terms of hairstyles, she often chooses…

In a clothing store on Jinfang Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, master tailors are busy crafting custom-made New Chinese-style garments for their customers. The shop owner, Mr. Li Yun, explains that their range of clothing offers consumers a rich selection of fabrics and styles. Their specialty lies in blending traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern casual wear, appealing particularly to a growing number of young people. Market Trends and Consumer Appeal The popularity of New Chinese-style fashion is not confined to boutique stores but extends to wholesale markets as well. In Hangzhou's Sijiqing Clothing Characteristic Street, Ms. Zhan, a wholesaler, notes that New Chinese-style garments constitute around 40% of her inventory. Responding to market trends, she plans to further increase this percentage in the coming year. Moving to Cao County, Heze City, Shandong Province, we find a pivotal hub for the production and sale of Hanfu, traditional Chinese attire. In 2023, Hanfu sales in Cao County reached an impressive 7.215 billion yuan. The momentum continues strong this year, with Hanfu's online retail sales in the first quarter alone amounting to 1.98 billion yuan, marking a 90.75% year-on-year increase. Among the various traditional garments, the horse-face skirt has particularly gained prominence.…

When Henan natives venture beyond their provincial borders, they often encounter a surprising realization: does anyone outside of Henan eat "Jingjie (荆芥) "? "Jingjie," a seemingly ordinary green leafy vegetable, holds a sacred place in the hearts of Henan people during the summer months. Despite being treasured locally, Jingjie remains relatively unknown outside Henan, prompting queries like, "What exactly is Jingjie? Is it catnip?" Understanding Jingjie Firstly, Jingjie is not catnip! Botanically classified under the basil genus, Jingjie's taste is akin to a blend of mint and lemon, offering a refreshing, slightly pungent flavor profile. Henan locals adore Jingjie for its versatility. It is commonly enjoyed cold, tossed with cucumbers, cold noodles, or in salads. For hot dishes, it can be steamed with flour coating, stir-fried with eggs, or used as a noodle topping. Its unique aroma and taste not only refresh in the summer but also stimulate appetite. Culinary Delights and Cultural Significance For Henan natives, Jingjie is more than a vegetable; it symbolizes hometown flavors cherished by those far from home. It has even inspired local brands like "Juantea (眷茶) " to create a popular beverage—Jingjie Lemon Tea, renowned for its distinctive local charm. However, not all Henan…

In recent years, traditional Chinese culture has been infused with new vitality through the rise of "New Chinese Style" (新中式), captivating the younger generation with its unique blend of ancient charm and contemporary flair. Cultural and creative products, intangible heritage skills, and experiences rooted in traditional Chinese aesthetics have captured the hearts of the younger generation, becoming the new sensation in contemporary culture. This cultural renaissance is not just about aesthetics; it's an immersive journey into the past, as exemplified by the "Song Dynasty Elegance" (宋风四雅) experience in Kaifeng. Encountering Ancient Aesthetics in "Song Dynasty's Four Elegances" The serene city of Kaifeng hosts a mesmerizing exhibition at its museum, where visitors are transported back a thousand years to the Song Dynasty. This immersive experience, dubbed "Song Dynasty's Four Elegances", showcases the ancient arts of incense burning (焚香), tea brewing (点茶), flower arranging (插花), and painting appreciation (挂画). Deng Fenyue, a master of traditional incense making and the curator of the "Song Dynasty's Four Elegances" project, explains, "The 'Four Elegances' encompass incense, tea, flowers, and paintings. Today, they extend to music, calligraphy, and dance, blending aesthetic and artistic values passed down through millennia." These traditional practices elevate daily life into an…

Recently, stars such as Zhong Chuxi, Na Zha, Ni Ni, and Huang Xuan have appeared in the style of the Republic of China period one after another, showing a different kind of charm and appeal. These photos not only made people's eyes light up, but also gave everyone a deeper understanding and recognition of the culture of the Republic of China period. Zhong Chuxi's Republic of China style is both elegant and not lacking in grace. She seems like a beautiful woman who has traveled through time, and exudes charming aura with every moving. Na Zha is shown in the style of a pure and mischievous student in the Republic of China, with two braided braids and wearing a uniform, full of youthful vitality, making people recall the green campus time. Ni Ni originally is a temperamental goddess, and after putting on a cheongsam, it appears even more noble and elegant. Huang Xuan is in a suit of the Republic of China period, and is graceful. The two standing together are simply a pair of golden boys and jade girls, and the picture is so beautiful that it makes people suffocate. These stars' Republic of China styles not only show…

Peng Xiaoran's latest venture in the historical drama "Phoenix Pavilion" has not only captivated audiences but also sparked fervent discussions across social media platforms. The drama, officially announcing its completion today, features Peng Xiaoran in the role of Ling Cangcang, a character who transitions from a renowned martial arts master to an esteemed empress, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In the role of Ling Cangcang, Peng Xiaoran portrays a multifaceted character who embodies both the elegance of a wealthy young lady and the valor of a revered leader in the martial arts world as the head of the Phoenix Pavilion. Ling Cangcang is portrayed as astute, courageous, and driven by a strong sense of justice, often intervening in injustices with sword drawn, contrasting sharply with her noble identity as a queen trapped within the confines of the imperial palace. The character's complexity and Peng Xiaoran's nuanced portrayal have already garnered acclaim, with her costumes ranging from elaborate palace attire to formidable armor, each meticulously crafted to reflect the character's journey and inner conflicts. Peng's ability to seamlessly transition between these roles has not only intrigued viewers but also heightened anticipation for the drama's release. Peng Xiaoran's ability…

In recent days, the "Civilization in Chinese Culture" program of Changning District in 2024 has been making its way into numerous primary and secondary schools, bringing the beauty of traditional Chinese culture to young students. This initiative aims to instill cultural confidence among the youth through various activities such as learning Kunqu opera poetry and appreciating the elegance of Shanghai-style qipaos that have spanned a century. At Weining Road Primary School, Zhao Jinyu, a professional promoter of Kunqu opera and successor of the Peng school's guimen dan (female role), engaged the students with her presentation titled "Endless Art, Endless Learning—Sowing the Seeds of Kunqu Opera." She demonstrated the art of Kunqu opera by performing He Zhizhang's poem "Song of the Willow" in the melodious Kunqu singing style. For many students, this was their first encounter with poetry being recited so melodiously, sparking a strong interest among them. During her presentation, Zhao Jinyu patiently taught the students various hand gestures used in Kunqu opera and led them in practicing dance movements while wearing flowing-sleeved costumes. "During Kunqu opera performances, imagination plays a crucial role. Coupled with the colorful Kunqu costumes, it feels like watching a moving painting," Zhao Jinyu explained. "This…

The recent completion of filming for the 28-episode historical comedy "Fragrant Festivities" marks a significant milestone, boasting a stellar cast and promising to shake up the Chinese drama market once again. At the heart of "Fragrant Festivities" is the tale of Ai Sixi (played by Li Jiaqi), the determined innkeeper who staunchly adheres to her belief in staying single. However, when pressured by local authorities cracking down on singlehood, she reluctantly marries Jing Kan (played by Ren Hao). Initially, their marriage is a matter of convenience for Ai Sixi, a way to gain favor and protection. They agree to maintain a hands-off relationship post-marriage, but fate intervenes as they find themselves embroiled in the power struggles of the local tea tribute family, Jing's household. The essence of a sitcom lies not only in its ensemble cast but also in its comedic timing and plot intricacies. "Fragrant Festivities" masterfully combines lively character dynamics with a continuous stream of humorous situations, ensuring a stable entertainment factor throughout its episodes. "Fragrant Festivities" leverages two major strengths that captivate viewers and keep them eagerly anticipating each episode. Firstly, the dynamic portrayal of a diverse ensemble cast brings depth and charm to the narrative. Each…

For Team Ninja, an open world may not be a necessary condition to achieve ultimate mastery, but it is an inevitable path they must tread. When the trailers for "Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty" and "Rise of the Ronin" appeared simultaneously at a conference, many were confused, not understanding why Team Ninja would produce two similar games in the same period. It wasn't until later, when it was revealed that "Rise of the Ronin" would be an open-world game, that people had their "aha" moment. After experiencing the game, I deeply felt the ambition contained in Team Ninja's open-world debut. However, this belated ambition, like the decision-makers in their story who find themselves in a great era, inevitably comes with regrets and compromises. If we compare Team Ninja's recent works, we can say that "Wo Long" inherited the mantle of the "Nioh" series, while "Rise of the Ronin" took a reverse path from "Nioh". This reverse path presupposes the use of the same secret techniques. And this source of all techniques, tightly held by Team Ninja, is their proud action gameplay foundation developed over many years. For players who have experienced works like "Nioh" and "Wo Long", getting into "Rise of…

A fascinating trend has emerged among young men and women who are embracing traditional Chinese cultural elements in their fashion choices. From T-shirts adorned with calligraphy, seals, and classical Chinese landscape paintings to the resurgence of traditional garments like qipao, hanfu, and horse-face skirts, these styles are gaining popularity among the youth. Elements such as embroidery, traditional buttons, and overlapping fronts are seamlessly integrated into daily wear, marking a significant shift in wardrobe choices among the younger generation. Cultural Renaissance in Fashion The phenomenon of "national style dressing" or "neo-Chinese style" has swiftly captivated the imagination of today's youth. It represents more than just a shift in fashion; it signifies a cultural renaissance rooted in confidence and a renewed appreciation for heritage. By incorporating traditional Chinese elements into their attire, young people are not only making a fashion statement but also expressing cultural pride and identity. Behind the transformation of young people's wardrobes lies a deeper societal shift towards cultural confidence and enhanced consumer awareness. These fashion choices reflect a desire among the youth to reconnect with their cultural roots and embrace traditions that resonate with contemporary sensibilities. Whether it's wearing a T-shirt with a classical Chinese motif or donning…

In the bustling city of Foshan's Chancheng district, nestled amid the echoes of its rich industrial past and the promise of innovative futures, a cultural phenomenon known as "Guochao" is reshaping the landscape of manufacturing. What began as a resurgence of national pride has swiftly evolved into a powerful consumer trend, influencing everything from creative industries to household names in electronics and automotive sectors. A recent report titled Insights into Guochao Brands and Young Consumers reveals an astonishing growth of over 500% in Guochao's popularity compared to a decade ago, with millennials and Gen Z contributing a whopping 74% to its consumption. This surge isn't merely a manifestation of cultural confidence but also a beacon of new opportunities for urban industries across China. Foshan, renowned as the epicenter of China's ceramics industry with a history spanning millennia, now finds itself at the forefront of this cultural and industrial fusion. Ventures like Mu Ci (慕瓷) , innovators in the traditional ceramics sector, have witnessed unprecedented success with products like the matte finish Xiangyunsha (香云纱) tiles, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Similarly, HEA, a fashion brand inspired by the vibrant Lion Dance (醒狮) culture of Lingnan, has expanded rapidly across the…