In recent times, a captivating trend has emerged during graduation season across Chinese universities: the blending of traditional Chinese fashion (Guofeng) with the formal academic regalia, which has won the hearts of the younger generation, particularly represented by Generation Z. Behind this trend, however, lies a nascent stage for the industry of traditional attire such as Hanfu. Despite its rising popularity, issues persist such as inconsistent quality and limited original design capabilities. Critics suggest that brands specializing in Guofeng should delve deeper into the cultural essence of traditional Chinese culture. By doing so, they can not only showcase traditional aesthetics but also cater to modern lifestyle needs. Improving fabric quality, craftsmanship, and exploring innovative ways to express traditional culture are seen as essential steps to ensure that these products stand the test of time and embody historical significance. This blending of Guofeng with academic dress not only celebrates cultural heritage but also serves as a personal statement of identity and pride. For many young graduates, incorporating elements of Hanfu into their graduation attire is a deliberate choice to connect with their roots and distinguish themselves in a sea of uniform academic attire. Social media platforms play a pivotal role in…

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…

Nostalgia often tugs at the heartstrings, invoking memories of simpler times and cherished places. Such is the allure of "Moments We Shared (云边有个小卖铺)," a film that has captivated audiences with its portrayal of a serene small town. While its storyline may be critiqued for its scattered plot, the film resonates deeply with viewers, tapping into universal emotions tied to childhood and homecoming. Rediscovering Home: Liu Shisan's Journey Back to Cloudside At the heart of "Moments We Shared" lies the journey of its protagonist, Liu Shisan, who finds solace and rediscovery in his grandmother's hometown after facing setbacks in the bustling city. The tranquil town, nestled among the scenic landscapes of Fenghua's Xifan (西畈) Village, offers a serene escape just a short drive away from Ningbo and Hangzhou. Here, amidst verdant hills and winding rivers, visitors can experience the essence of the fictional town brought to life. Fenghua, positioned at the southern tip of the Yangtze River Delta, boasts a tapestry of natural wonders, each imbued with its own beauty and serenity. Whether strolling through the ancient streets by the Shanyin River or marveling at the cascading Thousand Zhaoyan Waterfall, every corner of Fenghua echoes with tales of ordinary yet precious…

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.…

Nestled amidst the misty landscapes of Fujian's mountainous terrain lies a hidden treasure integral to its cultural fabric—tea. Originating from the heartland of China, tea has not only been a staple of natural bounty but also a companion to humanity, evolving alongside the epochs of Chinese civilization. From the sprawling tea gardens of Jiangnan to the rugged terrains of Wuyi Mountain, from the lush tea trees of Shaanxi's Hanzhong to the majestic tea mountains of Yiwu in Yunnan, tea embodies both a gift from nature and a cultural artifact shaped by human ingenuity. Its varieties have shifted like the constellations, and its processing techniques have advanced with the passage of generations. Embarking on a Tea Journey in Fujian March brings a delicate dance between cold fronts and the promise of spring in Fujian, a province characterized by its eight mountains, one river, and one rice paddy. The intertwining of these natural elements creates a landscape perpetually shrouded in mist and mystery. It is in this ambiance that the tea bushes in the mountainous tea gardens of Guanyang Town, Fuding, awaken from their winter slumber, their tender green shoots reaching out to grasp the essence of spring in the air. Fuding,…

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…

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…

Sour soup hotpot, an enticing culinary adventure that beckons both the adventurous food enthusiast and the curious gastronome alike. It's not just a meal; it's a journey into the vibrant tapestry of Chinese flavors, where sourness takes center stage in a symphony of tastes. Whether you've savored its tangy embrace or are yet to indulge, the allure of sour soup hotpot is undeniable. Childhood Memories and Culinary Evolution Our fascination with sourness often traces back to childhood, where a simple encounter with a tart candy or a misplaced sip of vinegar could elicit a memorable sensory experience. Over the years, our culinary horizons have expanded beyond sweet and sour candies to include sophisticated dishes like sour cabbage and vinegar-glazed potato shreds. These Chinese delicacies have enriched our palate with nuanced layers of sourness, adding depth to our gustatory memories. A Culinary Revolution: Bringing Southern Sourness to the Masses In recent years, the charm of southern-style sour soup hotpots has spread far and wide, adorning street corners with tantalizing storefronts that pique the interest of passersby. It's not until you taste it yourself that you begin to unravel the deeper meaning behind this ubiquitous sourness. Guizhou Sour Soup Beef Hotpot In…

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…

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…

In the heart of Shanghai, amid the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, a diverse group of young artists gathers at the Shanghai Theatre Academy. They come from 17 different countries, united by a shared passion for Chinese opera. This summer, they embark on a transformative journey, not merely as spectators, but as dedicated students eager to unravel the mysteries of one of China's oldest performing arts. Cultural Immersion through Opera The Shanghai Theatre Academy's annual Summer School in Chinese Opera has become a beacon for international students seeking an authentic immersion into Chinese culture. For over a month, these students have delved deep into classics such as "The Orphan of Zhao (赵氏孤儿)," and "The Lament of the Pear Blossom (梨花颂)." Under the guidance of seasoned instructors, they learn the intricate movements, vocal techniques, and storytelling traditions that define Chinese opera. Beyond the grandeur of performances, the students' days are filled with rigorous training and insightful lectures. Teachers like Yu Xiang, unable to contain their enthusiasm, guide students through every gesture and intonation. Whether it's refining the flutter of a sleeve or the resonance of a vocal line, the dedication of both teachers and students creates an atmosphere ripe with learning…

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,…

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…

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.…