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,…

Today marks the auspicious completion of filming for the historical romance drama "Phoenix on the Stage," starring Ren Jialun. The series, exclusively broadcast on Youku, boasts a stellar cast and promises a thrilling narrative that intertwines court politics with martial arts adventures. "Phoenix on the Stage" unfolds during the reign of Emperor Xiaohuan (played by Ren Jialun) in the Southern Qi Dynasty. Despite his earnest desire to govern for the people, the imperial court is manipulated by powerful ministers and influential figures from the martial world. To better understand the plight of the common people, Emperor Xiaohuan disguises himself as "Bai Chifan" and ventures incognito into the martial world. His aim is to unite various factions and protect the populace from oppression and calamity. Fate leads Emperor Xiaohuan to cross paths with Ling Cangcang (played by Peng Xiaoran), the righteous leader of the Fenglai Pavilion. United by their shared sense of justice, they embark on a journey together, wielding swords to eradicate evil and restore peace. As they spend more time together, a hidden affection blossoms between them. This setup introduces an engaging storyline filled with political intrigue, martial arts prowess, and blossoming romance. The Southern Qi Dynasty serves as…

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.…

This summer, Hubei Province beckons travelers from across China with a special cultural treat: the "Recite Poetry, Explore Jingchu" initiative. Nineteen scenic spots across the province have united to offer visitors the chance to exchange their knowledge for free entry into some of Hubei's most iconic attractions. Wuhan Mulantianchi Scenic Area (5A) Visitors who recite the entire poem "The Ballad of Mulan (木兰辞)" at the Mulantianchi Visitor Center will receive free admission (original price: 70 yuan/person). Activity Period: From now until August 31 Inquiry Phone: 027-61518926 Xiangyang Gulongzhong Scenic Area (5A) At the Yueying Flower Field Visitor Center, visitors who recite the entire "Dialogue at Longzhong (隆中对)" poem can enjoy free admission (original price: 67 yuan/person, excluding shuttle fees). Activity Period: From now until August 31 Inquiry Phone: 0710-3775067 Lumen Mountain Scenic Area (3A) Recite either "Failing to Hunt in Lumen (游鹿门不果)" or "Remembering the Past on Lumen Mountain (登鹿门山怀古)" to enjoy free admission (original price: 50 yuan/person). Activity Period: From now until August 31 Inquiry Phone: 0710-2976888 Yichang Qu Yuan's Hometown Cultural Tourism Area (5A) Recite the first 20 sentences of Qu Yuan's "Li Sao (离骚)" or the first 20 sentences of "Questions to Heaven (天问)" to enjoy free…

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…

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…

With the continuous innovation and progress of domestic animation, more and more excellent Chinese animation works are welcomed and loved by the most audience. In 2024, the domestic animation market can be described extremely hot. Popular Chinese animation works on major video websites have caught audience’s attention. Today, let's take a look at 8 films of hot Chinese cartoons in 2024 and see if there is one you are following. 1. A Mortal's Journey to Immortality (凡人修仙传) Based on the novel named A Mortal's Journey to Immortality(凡人修仙传), this Chinese cartoon tells a story of a poor boy from a small  village who accidentally enters the small sect of the society that once called JiangHu in ancient China. And eventually cultivates into a hero with his own efforts and ingenuity. As the originator of the "mortal cultivation fairy" genre, the early model of this kind of works is general, but after the  chapter of Star Sea Flight, the picture is significantly improved, and the scene and compact plot have become the biggest highlights of this work, perfectly interpretate the mental progress of the little cultivation fairy. 2. Xian Ni (仙逆) "It’s only in mind between humaness and celestial being, going along or not." Adapted from the popular online novel of the same name, this Chinese cartoon tells a story of…

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

Hi everyone, welcome to newhanfu.com, the Newhanfu Community. “To help more people to learn Hanfu costume, Chinese traditional culture and feel the charm of China!” – this is our philosophy, which we have been insisting on many years. And we are so glad that we are still here with all of you. In order to give back to all our readers for their long-term support, we have prepared a variety of fascinating hanfu costume gifts for those who love and give publicity to Hanfu. Starting from 2021, we have officially launched the Hanfu Free Giveaways. We are looking forward to your participation and get your first set of hanfu costume. By 2024, we've given away more than 1,300+ free hanfu for our members (they come from all over the world, and including many social medias, like Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Tiktok, etc. Thank you all for the love and always support)   Hanfu Free Giveaways Points for Discount  Start earning points and unlock exciting discounts on our exquisite hanfu collection. Every 100 points earned equals $1 in discounts on future purchases. For example, if you have accumulated 500 points, you can enjoy a $5 discount on your next order in Newhanfu Store.  …

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

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

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

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

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

Baba (粑粑), often overlooked in Northern Chinese cuisine, shines brightly as a beloved staple across Southern China, presenting a vast universe of culinary delights that rival the variety of Bing (饼), Mo (馍), and Huoshao (火烧). This versatile delicacy, ranging from plain to filled, sweet to savory, and steamed to fried, embodies the rich culinary traditions and diverse flavors of the region. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the cultural heritage and regional variations of Baba, celebrated in provinces like Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and beyond. Basic Baba: Essence of Simplicity In its simplest form, Baba requires nothing more than grains and water, cooked in a manner that elevates simplicity to sublime flavors. In Xiangxi, glutinous rice Baba reigns supreme as a classic. During the lunar twelfth month, every household steams glutinous rice, pounding it into soft, sticky balls. Shaped into moon-like discs, these Baba are cooled in cold water for preservation until spring. Variations include sorghum Baba made with sticky sorghum, offering a different texture and taste experience. Baba can be pan-fried, cooked in soup with sliced strips, but its most beloved preparation involves direct grilling over charcoal. The heated Baba puffs up like balls, developing a golden crispy…

The intense summer drama showdown has begun. Youku has set the stage good start with "The Double," and now they’re back with a surprise hit - "The Princess Royal." Upon its release, this drama swiftly climbed to the top of Youku's hottest premieres of 2024. Within the first three episodes, "The Princess Royal" manages to tell a story with the pace and charm that would take other dramas a dozen episodes to cover. The plot advances at lightning speed, from the protagonists' deaths to their reunion in a new life, leaving no room for unnecessary filler. For those recovering from the addictive "The Double," "The Princess Royal" is the perfect follow-up. This drama blends intense romance and sweet moments seamlessly. With Youku consistently delivering high-quality dramas, audience expectations have risen. While innovating in the historical romance genre is challenging, "The Princess Royal" manages to surprise. It combines a strong male and female lead dynamic with multi-layered relationships, where the leads are adversaries, allies, and lovers all at once. This creates a sweet yet complex narrative that keeps viewers hooked. In recent years, sweet dramas have faced criticism for being formulaic and artificial. However, "The Princess Royal" offers fresh and grounded…

When traveling to Fujian, a southeastern province of China, one must immerse themselves in the region's diverse and rich culinary landscape. Fujian cuisine, often overshadowed by its spicier counterparts from other regions, offers a unique blend of flavors that highlight the natural sweetness and freshness of its ingredients. Here, we'll explore the delectable delights of Fuzhou and Quanzhou, two cities that epitomize Fujian's gastronomic charm. Fuzhou: A Symphony of Sweet and Fresh Flavors Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian, is renowned for its distinctive sweet and fresh flavors. The city's cuisine is a harmonious blend of sweetness that doesn't overpower but enhances the natural taste of its ingredients. Lychee Pork: A Sweet Surprise Before visiting Fuzhou, I had heard about the famous lychee pork and was curious to try it. Contrary to its name, lychee pork does not contain any lychees. Instead, the dish is named for the pork's lychee-like appearance. The meat is coated in a batter, deep-fried, and then stir-fried in a tangy tomato-based sauce. Its taste is reminiscent of sweet and sour pork, a beloved dish in northeastern Chinese cuisine. This sweetness is a hallmark of many Fuzhou dishes, such as stir-fried pork liver and drunken ribs. While…

Have you ever heard of Morning Wine? This phrase might sound unfamiliar, but a quick search on platforms like Bilibili or Douyin will reveal videos with hundreds of thousands or even millions of views—scenes depicting a leisurely meal in the early hours, complete with small glasses of wine and a table laden with dishes. This tradition of enjoying a relaxed breakfast with a few drinks has quietly captured the admiration of many, drawing young people to regions like Hubei, Sichuan, and Chongqing, where Morning Wine culture thrives. In the heartlands of China, beyond the bustling cities and serene countryside, lies a breakfast tradition steeped in camaraderie and cultural richness—the practice of Morning Wine (晨酒). Contrary to its name, Morning Wine is not merely about alcohol but embodies a convivial morning meal paired with modest spirits, celebrating local flavors and community ties. Originating along the banks of the mighty Yangtze River, Morning Wine is more than just a meal; it's a social ritual deeply ingrained in the fabric of everyday life. Traditionally enjoyed by laborers and farmers to kickstart their day, it has evolved into a cherished custom celebrated across generations. Beyond Just Morning Drinks: The Allure of Meat At first…

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