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…

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,…

The qipao, with its rich history and timeless appeal, embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern sophistication. This iconic garment has transcended centuries, evolving from traditional Chinese attire into a global symbol of elegance. However, not every woman feels equally comfortable or confident in a qipao. It takes a certain grace and demeanor to carry off this garment with poise and style. Understanding the Characteristics of an Ideal Qipao Wearer The allure of a qipao lies not only in its design but also in how it complements the wearer's physique and demeanor. Here are some characteristics that typically define an ideal qipao wearer: Graceful and Curvaceous Physique One of the defining features of a woman who suits a qipao is a gracefully curvaceous physique. The qipao is known for its form-fitting silhouette that accentuates the curves of the body, particularly the waist, hips, and legs. A woman with a slightly fuller figure, often described as having a "plump" or "curvy" appearance, can beautifully fill out the qipao's lines and curves, enhancing its elegance and charm. Full and Well-Defined Curves An ideal qipao wearer typically has well-defined curves in areas such as the face, waist, hips, and legs. These…

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…

Among the upcoming historical dramas, "Dashing Youth," starring Hou Minghao, He Yu, and Hu Lianxin, is highly anticipated by martial arts fans. With post-production completed and official approval for release secured, the drama recently unveiled its first trailer and has a tentative premiere date set for mid to late July. This 40-episode series is poised to be a major contender in the summer viewing season for a popular streaming platform. "Dashing Youth" follows the growth of two young protagonists, Baili Dongjun and Ye Dingzhi, from childhood friends to adversaries, ultimately resolving their misunderstandings and grudges to assume their responsibilities. Hou Minghao plays Baili Dongjun, the youngest son of the Marquis of the West. Despite his passion for brewing wine, he is compelled to train in martial arts under the guidance of the top martial artist, Li Changsheng. Baili Dongjun's character arc mirrors that of Xu Fengnian from "Sword Snow Stride," transitioning from reluctance to embracing his responsibilities. He evolves from a boy aiming to fulfill a promise to his friend into a hero leading warriors to defend against invaders, offering a compelling transformation. He Yu's character, Ye Dingzhi, has a tragic past and is manipulated by others due to his…