Before heading to Xishuangbanna, I had a clear goal: no matter how tight the schedule, I had to visit Gaozhuang Night Market, soak in its lively atmosphere, and feast on authentic Dai cuisine. Well, the market was indeed "grand," but the traffic jam leading to it was long enough to have a proper meal while waiting. When I finally arrived, I was surrounded by countless street stalls selling Dai-style barbecue. However, the vendors all spoke in a thick Northeastern Chinese accent, and the overwhelming crowd made me lose my appetite. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences is another well-known attraction, famed for its impressive collection of rare plants. However, my experience there was far from peaceful. As I walked through the garden, I found myself surrounded by wave after wave of tour groups, with guides shouting explanations through loudspeakers. The relentless noise, coupled with the scorching heat, made it difficult to appreciate the beauty around me. Instead of admiring the flora, I was desperately searching for a quiet patch of grass to sit on and escape the chaos. While this botanical garden might be a paradise for plant enthusiasts during the off-season, visiting during peak…

A City Where Tradition Lives On Walking through the streets of Macau, first-time visitors might notice a small yet ubiquitous presence in front of shops and homes—a tiny shrine, often filled with incense, flowers, and an eclectic mix of offerings ranging from fresh fruits and biscuits to soft drinks and red wine. This seemingly modest practice is a reflection of a long-standing local belief in the Earth God, known as "Tu Di Gong" (土地公), a deity revered for bringing prosperity, protection, and harmony to the community. The belief in the Earth God is deeply rooted in Macau's folk traditions, symbolizing a direct and intimate connection between the people and the land they live on. Unlike grand temples dedicated to higher celestial beings, the Earth God's shrines are humble, accessible, and ever-present, making him the "closest" deity to the daily lives of Macau's residents. Each year, on the second day of the second lunar month, the city comes alive for "Tu Di Dan" (土地诞), the Earth God's birthday. This festival is a blend of vibrant rituals, lion dances, opera performances, and community feasts—an event that not only honors tradition but also brings together generations of locals and visitors alike. A Festival…

As the crisp chill of winter fades, nature stirs, and the world prepares for renewal. In the traditional Chinese calendar, this transition is marked by Jingzhe (惊蛰), a solar term that signifies the awakening of hibernating creatures. The name itself, meaning "Awakening of Insects," encapsulates the essence of this period—one where nature’s dormancy gives way to movement, growth, and life. Jingzhe, the third of the twenty-four solar terms in the Chinese lunisolar calendar, typically falls in early March. This moment is not merely a marker of time; it is a powerful symbol of transformation. It embodies the ancient understanding of seasonal rhythms, influencing agriculture, folklore, and traditional beliefs that continue to resonate in contemporary Chinese society. The Science Behind the Tradition The arrival of Jingzhe is often associated with the first thunder of the year. In traditional Chinese thought, the booming sound is believed to shake the earth and awaken insects from their winter slumber. This perception is rooted in real meteorological changes: as temperatures rise, increased humidity and atmospheric instability lead to spring thunderstorms, a phenomenon widely observed across China. From an agricultural standpoint, Jingzhe plays a crucial role. For centuries, farmers have relied on the rhythm of the solar…

For years, Mondays have been an unspoken "closed day" for museums across China. However, this long-standing tradition is now shifting. Recently, the Huai'an Museum in Jiangsu Province announced that it will be open every day of the week, eliminating the usual "closed day" policy. Similarly, several museums in Shaanxi Province have followed suit, introducing a new era where museums remain open seven days a week. This change is a response to increasing public demand and the evolving capabilities of museum management and preservation technologies. Traditionally, museums used their closed day for routine maintenance, exhibit adjustments, and artifact preservation. However, with technological advancements and improved management techniques, some institutions have realized that these essential tasks can be handled without requiring a full day of closure. By eliminating their weekly shutdown, museums are now offering greater convenience to visitors and demonstrating a deep commitment to public service. Meeting Public Demand In recent years, museum culture has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity across China. No longer just a weekend or holiday pastime, visiting museums has become a mainstream activity, with enthusiasts even planning entire trips around specific institutions. Social media trends like "museum check-ins" and "cultural tourism" have propelled museums into the…

For a province already celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites—from West Lake to Liangzhu Ancient City (良渚古城)—Zhejiang continues to rewrite the narrative of China's prehistoric past. The recent announcement of its 2024 Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries offers a thrilling glimpse into civilizations that thrived here up to 10,000 years ago. Among the highlights are the Neolithic Xiatang Village (下汤村), the enigmatic Huangchao Mound (皇朝墩), and two newly unearthed urban relics from Hangzhou. Let's dive into these time capsules reshaping our understanding of East Asia's early societies. Xiatang: A 10,000-Year-Old Time Capsule Nestled in the upper reaches of the Yong'an River Valley, the Xiatang Site (下汤遗址) in Taizhou's Xianju County (台州仙居县) has stunned archaeologists with its near-complete chronicle of Neolithic life. First discovered in 1984, this 30,000-square-meter settlement spans four distinct cultural phases: the Shangshan (10,000–8,500 BCE上山文化), Kuahuqiao (8,000–7,000 BCE跨湖桥文化), Hemudu (7,000–6,000 BCE 河姆渡文化), and Haochuan (4,500–4,000 BCE 好川文化) cultures. "Xiatang is like a fossilized imprint of China's earliest agricultural communities," explains Zhong Zhaobing, lead archaeologist at the site. Recent excavations revealed a sophisticated village layout: defensive trenches, raised earthen platforms, pottery kilns, food-processing areas, and even a ceremonial "plaza" paved with fired clay. Among the 400+ artifacts uncovered—stone tools,…

The melodic strains of an ancient lyre filled the halls of the Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu (成都金沙遗址博物馆) as the highly anticipated exhibition, Ancient Greece: Myth, Heroes, and Fate—Treasures from the Puglia Region of Italy, made its grand debut. Part of the museum's renowned World Civilizations series, this exhibition marks the first major showcase of ancient Greek culture in Sichuan and the inaugural stop of its China tour. With over a third of the artifacts on display making their first-ever appearance in Asia, the event offers a rare glimpse into the grandeur of Greek antiquity. This extraordinary encounter between two ancient civilizations—Ancient Shu (古蜀), a key pillar of early Chinese culture, and Ancient Greece, the bedrock of Western civilization—invites visitors to explore both their striking contrasts and unexpected similarities. Through an immersive journey across history, mythology, and art, the exhibition highlights the shared human experience that transcends geographical and temporal divides. Myths and Gods: A Shared Fascination Greek mythology has profoundly influenced Western thought for centuries, shaping literature, philosophy, and the arts. This exhibition brings visitors face-to-face with some of the most iconic figures in Greek lore, including Poseidon, ruler of the seas; Demeter, goddess of the harvest; and Athena,…

In the rugged landscapes of Georgia, a doughy delicacy bridges continents and centuries. Meet khinkali—Georgia's beloved dumpling, whose pleated folds and savory broth whisper tales of Mongol conquests, Silk Road exchanges, and a culinary resilience that resonates deeply with Chinese sensibilities. At a cooking class in Tbilisi's St. Bunny restaurant, chef Nino Bochorishvili hands me a lump of unleavened dough. As she demonstrates the art of pleating khinkali—pinching 18 spiraled folds to seal spiced meat inside—I'm struck by its uncanny resemblance to Shanghai's xiaolongbao. "Chinese visitors always say this feels familiar," Nino smiles. Yet differences emerge: khinkali is boiled, not steamed, and crowned with a doughy "handle" for easy handling. The eating ritual also sparks cross-cultural déjà vu. Georgians devour khinkali barehanded, slurping the broth first before consuming the rest—a technique mirroring how Shanghainese navigate soup dumplings. "A messy plate means you've mastered it," jokes Guram, our driver, whose father once ate 89 khinkali in one sitting. To a Chinese eater, this evokes the hearty chaos of a Beijing dumpling feast. History Wrapped in Dough The origins of khinkali are as layered as its folds. Chef Tekuna Gachechiladze, a pioneer of modern Georgian cuisine, traces its roots to the 13th-century…

On March 1, 2025, the historic Nanfeng Ancient Kiln in Foshan (佛山), Guangdong, roared back to life as part of the annual "Dragon Raises Its Head" festival. The event, deeply rooted in Lingnan folk traditions, saw the lighting of the legendary dragon kiln, marking the beginning of a vibrant cultural celebration that seamlessly blended heritage with contemporary creativity. Held in the Meitao Bay Cultural and Creative Industry Cluster, the festivities encapsulated the auspicious theme of "Great Prosperity"(大红大紫). The day unfolded with kiln-opening ceremonies, immersive historical reenactments, bustling marketplaces, and engaging folk performances, offering an all-encompassing journey from morning to night. By integrating art, craftsmanship, and local customs, the event reinforced Meitao Bay's role as a dynamic cultural hub, bridging the past with the future. Igniting the Dragon Kiln As the grand kiln-opening ceremony commenced, artisans and visitors gathered at Nanfeng Ancient Kiln Square to witness a spectacle that has endured for over five centuries. The kiln door slowly opened, releasing waves of heat and revealing the carefully crafted ceramic pieces within—each a product of time, fire, and meticulous skill. The unveiling of these kiln treasures symbolized good fortune, prosperity, and new beginnings for the year ahead. Renowned ceramic artists, including…

As the crisp air of early spring sweeps across the vast plains of Inner Mongolia, a breathtaking sight unfolds—herds of Mongolian gazelles, known as "huangyang" (黄羊) in Chinese, gracefully bounding across the grasslands of New Barag Right Banner in Hulunbuir. Their golden coats shimmer under the sunlight as they leap and play, embodying the untamed vitality of the wilderness. The Mongolian gazelle is a species that has long roamed the steppes of China, Mongolia, and parts of Russia. Classified as a national first-class protected animal in China and listed on the IUCN Red List, these agile creatures are integral to the fragile ecosystem of the semi-arid plains. In recent years, conservation efforts have fostered a promising resurgence in their population, a testament to the delicate balance between human activity and nature's resilience. Protecting the "Spirits of the Steppe" For centuries, the Mongolian gazelle has been revered as the "spirit of the steppe," a symbol of the untamed beauty of the grasslands. However, habitat loss and poaching once posed significant threats to their survival. In response, local authorities and conservationists have undertaken a series of robust ecological measures, ensuring a safer environment for these majestic animals. The implementation of rotational grazing…

On a crisp March evening, the Jiangsu Grand Theatre became a portal to 18th-century China. The original dance drama Dream of the Red Chamber, a daring reinterpretation of Cao Xueqin's literary masterpiece, celebrated its 300th performance to a spellbound audience. For over two hours, silk-robed dancers conjured the rise and fall of the Jia dynasty through whirling sleeves and suspended leaps, their movements echoing the novel's poetic cadence. When the final curtain fell, the cast returned for six encores as spectators—many clutching tear-stained programs—refused to leave. This wasn't merely a show; it was a cultural séance where 250-year-old characters breathed anew. Produced by Jiangsu Cultural Investment Group and choreographed by avant-garde visionary Li Xing, the production has redefined classical adaptation. Since its 2021 premiere, it's become a locomotive of China's cultural soft power: 34 cities, 45万 attendees, and a groundbreaking Singapore tour that saw audiences queueing in tropical downpours. "We're not retelling a story," explains academic advisor Dr. Wang from the China Art Research Institute. "We've distilled the novel's essence into kinetic imagery—the flick of a wrist conveys Daiyu's fragility, a synchronized leap mirrors the family's crumbling fortunes." The Alchemy of 300 Nights In rehearsal Studio 3, principal dancer Hu…

A Tradition Carved in Light and Shadow A single sheet of leather, a flickering lantern, and the deft movements of an artisan's hands—these simple elements merge to create a theatrical spectacle that has captivated audiences for centuries. Chinese shadow puppetry, a mesmerizing blend of painting, carving, storytelling, and music, has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In the historic city of Langzhong (阆中), Sichuan, the tradition of shadow puppetry has been passed down through generations, evolving while staying true to its roots. The Langzhong style, particularly the famed "Wang Shadow Puppetry," has been performed for over 350 years. Its distinct artistry is inspired by Sichuan opera, featuring intricate designs and vibrant characters cut from cowhide or paper. The narratives often revolve around history, mythology, and folklore, bringing to life stories that transcend time. A Master's Journey One of the most dedicated guardians of this tradition is Wang Biao, a seventh-generation heir of the Wang Shadow Puppetry lineage and a national-level inheritor of Sichuan shadow puppetry. Born in 1965, Wang Biao was immersed in the craft from an early age, learning both performance techniques and the delicate art of puppet carving from his grandfather, Wang Wenkun.…

In Guangxi, no banquet is complete without a steaming plate of Lipu Taro (荔浦芋头) Braised Pork. This beloved dish holds a special place in local culinary traditions, earning its reputation as the undisputed centerpiece of celebratory feasts. From family gatherings to grand wedding banquets, it consistently takes the spotlight, delighting diners with its rich aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Everyday Favorite Lipu taro is the key ingredient that sets this dish apart. Known as the "King of Taro," Lipu taro boasts a high starch content, giving it a soft, creamy texture with a hint of sweetness. The region has cultivated this prized crop for over a thousand years. Historical records indicate that as early as the Qing Dynasty, Lipu taro was selected as an imperial tribute, enjoyed by royalty for its superior quality. Lipu Taro Braised Pork dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Legend has it that devout worshippers once offered pork and taro as temple sacrifices. After the ceremony, they combined the ingredients, steamed them with seasonings, and unknowingly created what would become one of Guangxi's most iconic dishes. Over time, what was once a delicacy reserved for special occasions has become a household staple, enjoyed by families across China…

After two years of anticipation, Stephen Chow’s Lady Goal—a film centered on women’s soccer—is finally set to begin production. But the leaked casting list has ignited heated discussions across Chinese social media, raising questions about the comedy legend’s ability to adapt to modern cinema trends. The rumored lineup includes a curious blend of talent: Zhang Xiaofei, the 42-year-old comedy powerhouse fresh off her Hi, Mom success; Zhang Yixing (a.k.a. Lay), the K-pop-turned-actor idol; 22-year-old model Zhang Tianyi; and even South Korean actor Song Kang-ho, an Oscar-winning heavyweight. Add to this a sprinkle of Gen-Z influencers like actress Ami and former K-pop idol Zhou Jieqiong, and the ensemble feels more like a streaming platform’s algorithm-generated wishlist than a cohesive cinematic vision. Fans are split. On Weibo, one user quipped: “This isn’t a soccer team—it’s a talent show lineup!” Others worry that Chow, whose last directorial effort The New King of Comedy (2019) flopped with a dismal 5.7/10 Douban rating, might be relying too heavily on star power to compensate for creative uncertainty. Can Chow Still Kick It? Chow’s legacy as the “King of Mo Lei Tau” (nonsense comedy) is undisputed. Films like Shaolin Soccer (2001) and Kung Fu Hustle (2004) redefined…

In China, temples are often seen as places of worship, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle of everyday life. However, a lesser-known but equally delightful aspect of temple life is the cuisine—especially the humble yet hearty vegetarian dishes served within their ancient walls. Far from the notion that vegetarian food lacks flavor or excitement, these temple-based dishes prove otherwise. From noodles to savory snacks, the temples of China serve some of the most delightful meals, blending spiritual tradition with culinary craftsmanship. Though temple food is strictly vegetarian, the variety and depth of flavors can be surprising. Consider the staple dish in many temples: vegetarian noodles. These aren't just any noodles, but dishes steeped in rich, aromatic broths that are painstakingly crafted with an assortment of vegetables, mushrooms, and tofu, designed to nourish both the body and spirit. Let's take a look at some of the best temples to visit if you're looking for not just peace but a truly delicious vegetarian experience. Temple Noodles In Suzhou, a city famed for its sophisticated culinary traditions, even the temple noodles stand out. At Lingyan Mountain Temple and Xiyuan Temple, locals and tourists alike gather early in the morning to enjoy a…

No Chinese dish has achieved global recognition quite like Mapo Tofu. What began as a humble street food in 19th-century Chengdu has evolved into a culinary symbol bridging cultures, inspiring chefs, and sparking debates across continents. Its journey—woven with history, creativity, and a dash of misunderstanding—reveals how a single dish can transcend borders. In 1994, two seemingly unrelated events set the stage for Mapo Tofu's global breakthrough. Fuchsia Dunlop, a British scholar, arrived in Sichuan to study Chinese minorities but soon found herself enrolled at the Sichuan Culinary Institute. There, she mastered the art of Mapo Tofu, later introducing it to Western audiences through her books and documentaries. Meanwhile, in Japan, manga artist Etsushi Ogawa debuted Cooking Master Boy (中华一番), a culinary adventure series where the protagonist's triumph hinges on a mythical "Magical Mapo Tofu." These two narratives—one rooted in scholarship, the other in pop culture—propelled the dish into international consciousness. Dunlop became a tireless advocate for Sichuan cuisine, demystifying its history and honoring Chen Mapo, the 19th-century matriarch credited with creating the dish. Ogawa's manga, meanwhile, spawned anime adaptations and a cult following, transforming Mapo Tofu into a symbol of culinary heroism. The Name The dish's global journey wasn't…

Nestled within the lush green expanses of Jingmai (景迈) Mountain in southwestern China, the village and its surrounding tea groves are more than just scenic wonders. Here, generations of tea farmers from the Dai (傣族) and Blang (布朗族) ethnic groups have cultivated one of the oldest and most expansive tea forests in the world. For over a thousand years, these indigenous communities have adhered to traditional, nature-centered methods of tea cultivation. Among these, one tree stands out—its massive trunk, measuring 1.4 meters in diameter, and sprawling branches create an imposing crown that casts a powerful presence in the forest. Unlike the neat rows of short tea plants found in commercial plantations across China, this ancient tree grows in wild, unkempt beauty. It is here that the spiritual and agricultural lives of the tea farmers intertwine, as they pray for bountiful harvests, honoring the spirits of their ancestors, including the revered "Tea Spirit," Pai Leng (帕哎冷), who is considered the father of tea. Yuan Rong, 41, and his wife, Ke Lan Fang, 36, are part of a family that has been cultivating tea for generations. Standing before this ancient tree, they express their reverence and pride in a tradition that has…

Beneath the vaulted ceilings of Guangzhou Opera House, silk cascades like ink dispersing in water, unveiling the 700th iteration of a modern cultural marvel. Since its 2021 premiere, The Eternal Verdant: The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting (只此青绿)—a dance poetry drama inspired by the 12th-century masterpiece A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains—has transcended theatrical boundaries, becoming a living bridge between Song Dynasty artistry and contemporary sensibilities. Co-created by the Palace Museum and China Oriental Performing Arts Group, this production has magnetized over 1.2 million viewers across 70 cities, from Istanbul's ancient theaters to Broadway's neon glare, collecting accolades like the Wen Hua Award while redefining China's cultural narrative. The genius of The Eternal Verdant lies in its alchemical fusion of disciplines. Dancers don't merely perform; they become brushstrokes incarnate. Limbs curve like mountain ridges traced by Wang Ximeng, the teenage prodigy behind the original painting, their movements oscillating between the tensile grace of calligraphic flourishes and the raw energy of mineral pigment grinding. Silk costumes, dyed using reconstructed Song-era malachite formulas, ripple to reveal hidden cartographies of the landscape. Audiences find themselves not just spectators but time travelers, drawn into a dual narrative where a modern museum researcher's…

Xi'an's ancient city walls trembled not from winter winds, but from the thunderous artistry of 500 drummers. At the Han Dynasty Heritage Park, the air buzzed with anticipation as teams from Chang'an District, Zhouzhi County, and Yanliang District prepared for the "Drum Symphony of Prosperity" competition. Among them, the Chang'an troupe's "The Emperor's Review" (秦王点兵) stood out—a six-movement epic that reimagined Qin dynasty military drills through percussive storytelling. Fourteen-year-old Liang, his drumsticks wrapped in crimson silk, leaned toward his teammate. "The third movement mimics cavalry hooves," he whispered, as holographic warriors materialized above their drums. Nearby, the Lantian County troupe rehearsed "West River Folk Pageant" (西川社火), their cymbals spinning like golden harvest moons. "Each clash echoes our ancestors' celebrations after defeating floods," explained veteran performer Grandma Liu, her wrists flicking with the precision of a calligrapher's brush. The climax came when Zhouzhi County's drummers unleashed their "digital dragon"—a 50-meter LED projection that snaked through the air, its scales rippling to the rhythm of a 13th-century battle hymn. Tech-artist Mei, whose VR headset transformed drum scores into 3D calligraphy. Our ancestors carved prayers into oracle bones; we code them into light. Soil-Stained Hands, Skyward Rhythms In Fuping's frozen fields before dawn,…

On the evening of January 22, 2025, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Lantern Festival (1.22-3.30) kicked off with a dazzling display of lights. The first visitors to the park witnessed the spectacular moment as thousands of lanterns illuminated the night sky, offering a mesmerizing view of a world lit up by modern technology and traditional art. "3, 2, 1, Light Up!" With a countdown in the air, lanterns from three major parks—Nansha Puzhou Garden, Nansha Tianhou Temple, and Nansha Seaside Park—simultaneously lit up the night sky. This moment marked the beginning of a breathtaking visual journey, with thousands of lights forming intricate designs that captivated the eyes of onlookers. The first evening drew crowds of visitors eager to witness the magic. One of the standout features of this year's display is the lantern "The Flower Goddess (簪花女神)," which was set against a serene water-side backdrop. The graceful figure of the flower goddess, depicted in intricate detail, transported visitors to a tranquil water town, offering a beautiful juxtaposition between nature and craftsmanship. Another popular installation, "The Monkey King," reimagined the famous character of Sun Wukong from Chinese mythology. The lantern's unique dark fantasy style transformed the beloved hero into a mysterious, almost mythical figure,…

From January 1 to March 31, 2025, travelers arriving via China Eastern Airlines or rail services to Nanjing can unlock exclusive discounts at 23 iconic attractions—from the mist-shrouded Qixia Mountain to the lively Hongshan Forest Zoo. Simply present your boarding pass or train ticket within 10 days of arrival to enjoy up to 40% off tickets and experiences. But here's the real showstopper: March marks the awakening of Jiming Temple's (鸡鸣寺) legendary cherry blossoms. While Tokyo's sakura often steal the spotlight, Nanjing's 400-meter "Pink Corridor" offers an ethereal alternative. Picture delicate petals swirling around ancient temple eaves, accompanied by the soft chime of Buddhist bells—a scene so poetic it could make Kyoto blush. Nanjing offers an antidote to overcrowded Japanese hanami spots. As one guest remarked: "It's like stepping into a scroll painting—one where you can sip cappuccino amid cherry blossoms." Back at the legendary Jiming Temple Road, anticipation builds around the "Messenger Tree"—a lone Chunhan Cherry (春寒樱花) that traditionally heralds the main bloom. Though still cloaked in tight buds, early risers might spot a dozen pioneering flowers defying the chill. "This variety accounts for 80% of our cherry canopy," says local arborist Wang. "Once temperatures stabilize above 12°C, the entire 2km…