Stepping Into the Spotlight: A Journey of Growth Han Xue's (韩雪) ascent into the limelight on the grand stage of "Riding the Wind 2024" wasn't just a competition; it was a transformative journey that touched the hearts of many. Standing tall, clutching the weighty "Riding the Wind Trophy," her 12th place finish symbolized more than a mere ranking—it epitomized her journey of self-transcendence and personal evolution. As the spotlight converged on her, time seemed to stand still, capturing a moment where her declaration of "I did it" resonated not only with her own achievements but also with everyone who witnessed her growth. Reflecting on her journey, Han Xue's experience resembles a rollercoaster of tears, challenges, and laughter. No longer confined to the image of a perfect goddess in the eyes of the audience, she bravely shed all pretenses, revealing the most authentic version of herself, flaws and all. This courage itself became a victory—a triumph of embracing vulnerability and authenticity under the glare of the public eye. Embracing Humor and Self-Awareness Han Xue's journey wasn't just about dance; it was a narrative of self-discovery and acceptance. She infused humor into her performances, using it as a tool to alleviate pressure and connect…

Unveiling the Charms of "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl" In recent times, the silver screen has been graced with the enchanting allure of traditional Chinese aesthetics through animated films like "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl." These cinematic masterpieces not only entertain but also serve as cultural ambassadors, resonating deeply with audiences who find themselves captivated by the hidden "Easter eggs" of Chinese traditions embedded within. "Falling Mortal Dust": Journeying through Celestial Myths "Falling Mortal Dust" takes audiences on an odyssey through the mythical realms of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, set against the backdrop of the starry heavens. Its profound Eastern aesthetics and emotional depth centered around familial bonds have left a lasting impact on viewers, who praise its narrative resilience. The film introduces for the first time the Twenty-Eight Mansions of Chinese traditional culture, each constellation associated with various mythological tales. Characters like the gentle Ox, the fearsome Winged Serpent, and the mischievous Tail Tiger from the Twenty-Eight Mansions come to life on the big screen, weaving a tapestry of celestial intrigue. Embroidery: Stitching History into Art Embedded within the film's visual tapestry is the artistry of silk embroidery. Director Zhong Ding reveals that…

In the sweltering heat of midsummer, alongside rising temperatures, another phenomenon grips the hearts of viewers—the summer spectacle of ancient costume idol dramas, affectionately known as "gu-ou dramas". From the exhilarating finale of "Ink Rain Among Clouds" (云中墨雨), dubbed the "nation's stress-relieving drama", in late June to the current dominance of screens by "The Year of Duhua" (度华年) and "Chang Xiangsi 2" (长相思2) across various platforms, high-quality series are ceaselessly capturing audience interest. This surge in popularity marks a significant revival for ancient puppet dramas, positioning them once again as the paramount genre during the summer season, igniting a fervor among viewers. For Tang Tang, a self-proclaimed "avid enthusiast" of ancient puppet dramas among women born in the 1990s, titles like "Cang Lan Jue" (苍兰诀), "Chang Feng Du" (长风渡), and "Zhou Sheng Ru Gu" (周生如故) hold special significance. Since 2013, she has closely followed the release of various ancient puppet dramas in the entertainment market. "Overall, the market for ancient puppet dramas is a mixed bag," she comments. "While there have been hits like 'Dream Record' and 'Chang Xiangsi', there's also a fair share of poorly made, repetitive 'assembly line products'." Ancient puppet dramas, blending traditional costume dramas with idol…

In recent years, the production of historical dramas has increasingly emphasized the organic fusion of traditional cultural elements with storytelling, showcasing a more sophisticated and heartfelt approach to presenting traditional culture. From my perspective, the application of traditional cultural elements in historical dramas can be categorized into three levels: external, superficial, and internal depths.   Authentic Historical Restoration Historical dramas have shown a growing emphasis on meticulous attention to costume and set design, striving for a faithful reconstruction of historical accuracy. Some productions adhere strictly to scholarly research, almost replicating characters' attire and appearances directly from ancient texts and paintings. This approach allows viewers to experience the true aesthetic charm of traditional Chinese clothing. For example, in "Serenade of Peaceful Joy," the portrayal of Emperor Renzong of Song (played by Wang Kai) closely mirrors historical portraits, achieving a striking visual realism akin to a 3D print from ancient paintings. Beyond costumes, headwear serves as a crucial element of visual aesthetics for female characters. Instead of exaggerated hairstyles, integrating traditional intangible cultural heritage elements into hair accessories creates a sophisticated and refreshing visual appeal. For example, in "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace," the use of Tian-tsui ornaments on the hair…

With the resurgence of traditional Chinese culture, a new wave of nostalgia has swept over the nation, captivating the hearts of many. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the growing popularity of "national style" toys. On platforms like Xiaohongshu, topics related to "domestic building blocks" have garnered nearly 700 million views, with many adults becoming ardent fans. These toys are not just playthings; they serve as a bridge between traditional culture and modern life. In Quanzhou, iconic landmarks like Kaiyuan Temple and the Bell Tower have been recreated in the form of national style building blocks, alongside traditional toys like the Dragon's Nine Sons figurines and hairpin dolls. For generations who grew up playing with simple toys made from natural materials, these new national style toys offer a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Childhood Memories: Pure and Simple Joy The charm of childhood toys lies in their simplicity and the joy they brought. Su, an 80s-born woman, recalls playing with marbles, skipping rope, and collecting stones, all of which filled her childhood with unique memories. These toys, crafted from readily available materials like stones, rubber bands, and bamboo sticks, were products of an era of material scarcity. Yet, they provided endless…

In the realm of television drama, the wait for the second season of "Longing Heart" (长相思) has been a topic of anticipation among fans for nearly a year, following the resounding success of its first season. Recently, the official Weibo account of "Longing Heart" announced that Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on July 8th, featuring the original cast. According to a report from Cover News on July 3rd, the series will exclusively debut on Jiangsu TV on the same date. Let's rewind to July 2023 when the entire 39 episodes of "Longing Heart" Season 1 premiered on online streaming platforms. Shortly after its release, the series gained immense popularity, surpassing 33,000 in heat value due to its unique storyline, distinct characters, and high production standards. It became one of the hottest dramas of the summer of 2023. With the announcement of the premiere date for Season 2, glimpses of its standout scenes and climactic moments have already heightened audience expectations through teaser trailers. Particularly poignant scenes, evident from the trailers, showcase the emotional entanglements of the characters. Jiangsu TV has further indicated that they will innovate by airing both seasons consecutively: re-airing Season 1 during daytime slots and premiering…

As graduation season arrives once again, a new trend is sweeping through the world of tea beverages: gardenia flowers. In the realm of Chinese tea culture, there has been a recent surge in interest surrounding the once overlooked Zhi Zi Hua, also known as Gardenia. This traditional flower has become a centerpiece for modern tea brands seeking to revolutionize their offerings by infusing unique flavors and scents. In this article, we will explore the rise of Zhi Zi Hua in the tea industry, its impact on consumer preferences, and its potential to reshape traditional tea culture. The Rise of Gardenia in Tea In recent months, a wave of new tea drinks featuring gardenia has taken the market by storm. Brands like Nayuki Tea have introduced combos like "Perfumed Gardenia Green," blending the delicate fragrance of gardenia with refreshing tea bases. Meanwhile, Auntea Jenny's Coconut Milk with Gardenia Tea has delighted customers with its creamy texture and floral undertones. Major players like Heytea and Auntea Jenny have all incorporated gardenia into their latest beverage offerings, cementing its status as a top contender in the tea industry. But why gardenia, you might ask? Gardenia's journey into the realm of tea beverages isn't…

In the vast expanse of Inner Mongolia's Siziwang Banner, amidst the serene landscapes of Amugulang Grassland, a historic moment unfolded on June 25th at 2 PM. It was here that Hu Hao, the chief designer of the Chang'e 6 mission, welcomed back the long-awaited "Moon Maiden (六姑娘)" after 53 days of anticipation—the Chang'e 6 probe, marking humanity's first-ever lunar far-side sample return. Unveiling the Triumph Positioning, searching, checking status—the returner functioned flawlessly, achieving a resounding success for the mission, finally putting Hu Hao's anxieties to rest. Even as Chang'e 6 faithfully brought back nearly 4 kilograms of lunar soil from the far side of the moon, Hu Hao remains tirelessly occupied these days: escorting the returner back to Beijing, overseeing the unpacking of the lunar samples, planning future orbital experiments, and witnessing the initiation of scientific research on the lunar samples. Amidst his busy schedule, he shared with Xinhua News Agency reporters for the first time the untold stories of Chang'e 6. Technological Feats Collecting 1935.3 grams of the first human lunar far-side sample, and achieving a more precise re-entry than Chang'e 5, international payloads also harvested a scientific data "bonanza". Discussing the accomplishments of the "Moon Maiden," Hu Hao's…

In the whirlwind of the entertainment industry, where glamour and speculation abound, love often takes on hues of mystery and intrigue. Recently, a heartwarming photograph of Han Xue (韩雪) strolling with her husband Wan Shan (万山), who is nearing sixty, quietly captivated the internet. Han Xue, radiant as ever, and Wan Shan, with a distinguished air, drew curious glances and admiration from onlookers. Han Xue: A Breath of Fresh Air in the Entertainment World Han Xue is synonymous with a refreshing and ethereal beauty in the entertainment realm. Renowned not only for her acting prowess but also for her candid demeanor, she has garnered a devoted fan base. Her choice of life partner, Wan Shan, despite their significant age gap, has sparked intrigue and admiration. Wan Shan: Beyond Business Acumen to Personal Grace Wan Shan, though not a household name in public spheres, has left a profound impact in the business arena. Formerly a vice president at a Beijing technology firm and later a co-founder of a successful new media company with Yang Lan, Wan Shan exemplifies both professional success and personal depth. The Tale of a Serendipitous Encounter Their love story unfolded unexpectedly at a gathering in 2006, where…

The summer vacation is here, and if you're wondering how to make the most of it, look no further than iQIYI for an electrifying entertainment journey. Whether you're into thrilling adventures with Luffy from "One Piece" (海贼王)or rooting for the playful battles between Xi Yangyang and Hu Tylamb against their nemeses, iQIYI has curated an exciting lineup that promises something for everyone this summer. Exploring the World of Animation and Adventure iQIYI has pulled out all the stops this summer with a diverse array of high-quality children's programs, animations, and documentaries. From beloved classics like "Paw Patrol," (宠物小精灵) "Peppa Pig," (小猪佩奇) to newer hits like "JetX Heroes," (喷射英雄) the platform caters to a wide age range with content that blends entertainment, education, and visual appeal seamlessly. This ensures that children and parents alike can enjoy a safe and immersive viewing experience together. A Wonderland of Animation Diving deeper into the animation world, iQIYI's lineup features not only perennial favorites but also fresh stories like "JetX Heroes." This series follows the adventures of young Johnny as he learns the ropes of being a superhero within his family. It's a journey of growth and courage that resonates with children as they navigate their own paths of discovery and learning.…

In the heart of bustling Beijing, the anticipation hung thick in the air as the premiere of the Cantonese opera film “Lady Qiao” (谯国夫人) unfolded. Director Xiao Feng (萧锋携), flanked by lead actors Zeng Xiaomin (曾小敏), Wen Ruqing (温如清), and Peng Qinghua (彭清华), engaged in lively exchanges with the audience during the post-screening meet-and-greet. “Lady Qiao” transcends mere entertainment; it is an epic woven from the threads of history. The film traces the remarkable life of Lady Xian, a beacon of unity who rallied Baiyue tribes, fostered Lingnan’s growth, and played a pivotal role in quelling rebellions during the Liang, Chen, and Sui dynasties. Through a seamless blend of cinematic storytelling and the emotive artistry of Cantonese opera, “Lady Qiao” resurrects the legendary tapestry of “Lingnan’s past.” For lead actress Zeng Xiaomin, the journey was both daunting and exhilarating. Having previously grappled with her inexperience during the filming of “White Snake Chronicles: Love,” she now approached “Lady Qiao” armed with a clear vision. The film demanded not only the portrayal of Lady Xian’s various life stages but also the delicate transition from a wide-eyed novice to embodying the seasoned perspective of this historical figure. Director Xiao Feng, effusive in his…

In the late summer of 2022, "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty," produced by Guo Jingyu, written by Wei Fenghua, and directed by Bai Shan with Yang Xuwen and Yang Zhigang in leading roles, burst onto the scene as a dark horse, paving a new path in historical dramas labeled as "Zhiguai" (tales of the strange). Since then, updates about its sequel have continuously captivated fans. From the promise of the original team's return to the announcement of the sequel's narrative direction towards the west in "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West", each new development has sparked renewed interest and speculation among fans revisiting the original series, anticipating the plot of the new installment. Prior to the premiere of "Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West," nearly 6 million members had already pre-booked their spots, eagerly awaiting updates. The first six episodes, featuring the unit "The Demonic Transformation," received the most feedback in the barrage comments: "still the same." It maintains the familiar grandeur of Tang aesthetics and the eerie intrigue of zhiguai, coupled with meticulous attention to folk customs that resonate deeply. Lu Lingfeng (played by Yang Xuwen) and Su Wuming (played by Yang Zhigang),…

The Modern Hanfu Enthusiast Sensen, a Hanfu enthusiast born after 1995, regularly finds herself glued to her phone, watching Hanfu live shopping sessions on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok), even though her wardrobe is already bursting with various styles of Hanfu. "Last year, the Ma Mian skirt was in vogue, but this year, it's all about the new Chinese style," she says, making another purchase as a model twirls in her screen. In recent years, there has been a comprehensive revival of traditional Chinese culture, and Hanfu, which was once confined to niche circles, has become a new fashion trend. More young people, like Sensen, are being introduced to Hanfu through platforms like Douyin, experiencing a journey from unfamiliarity to curiosity, eventually embracing and promoting Hanfu culture. The Meteoric Rise of Hanfu A recent report by the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at Peking University HSBC Business School and the Zhiwei Research Institute highlights the explosive growth of Hanfu enthusiasts, with the number of aficionados expanding more than 30-fold over the past decade, reaching 9.98 million in 2023. The increasing demand has turned various e-commerce platforms into crucial venues for Hanfu purchases. By 2024, the market size for Hanfu in…

In recent years, Qingdao has emerged as a vibrant hub where traditional culture meets modern innovation through a wave known as "Guochao." This cultural phenomenon has swept across industries ranging from food and beverages to cultural creativity, driven by a fusion of established brands and new ventures. Rediscovering Tradition with a Modern Twist The essence of "Guochao" lies in revitalizing traditional Chinese culture and infusing it with contemporary elements to resonate with younger generations. It goes beyond mere nostalgia, emphasizing a seamless blend of cultural and commercial values. This shift is exemplified by Qingdao's iconic brands, which have reinvented themselves to cater to evolving consumer preferences. For instance, Qingdao Beer, in collaboration with Dunhuang Culture and Tourism, introduced the collaborative beer "Taibai Drunk," marking a creative intersection of "beer + art." Meanwhile, Qingdao Food ventured into livestreaming with the "Walking Together" platform, selling 25,000 packs of calcium milk biscuits within minutes. These initiatives highlight a strategic embrace of digital marketing to engage with a tech-savvy audience. From Heritage to Innovation: The Rise of New Brands Beyond revitalizing established brands, Qingdao has also seen a surge in new ventures capitalizing on the "Guochao" trend. One such example is Shanhai Jingguai, an…

In a digital era where entertainment often leans towards the flashy and transient, Tencent Video's latest offering, "Renewal Journey," emerges as a refreshing tribute to cultural depth and human connection. Premiering on July 10th, this spin-off from the beloved series "Empresses in the Palace" (also known as "甄嬛传") embarks on a quest to explore and celebrate the rich traditions of ethnic cultures across China. At its heart, "Renewal Journey" is not just a reality show; it's a poignant homage to heritage and a celebration of life's enduring journeys. The inaugural episode whisked viewers to the historic city of Hetur Ala in Fushun, Liaoning, where the cast, led by Cai Shaofen (蔡少芬), embarked on a profound exploration of Manchu culture. What began as a cultural exploration soon transformed into an emotional reenactment of a traditional Manchu wedding, a spectacle that left both participants and viewers alike awestruck. The marriage rituals, meticulously portrayed by Lan Xi (斓曦) as the bride and Zhang Xiaolong (张晓龙) as the groom, included rituals such as "Shooting the Magpie," "Phoenix Three Bows," and the symbolic act of crossing the saddle. These age-old customs not only brought the past to life but also resonated deeply with the cast, symbolizing a personal and collective…

Bridging Generations: Youth Embrace Agriculture's Modern Frontier In the quiet village of Gusheng (古生), Yunnan, where the earth meets the sky and the heart of agriculture beats strong, a transformation is unfolding. Young scholars from urban academies, once strangers to the toil of rural life, now immerse themselves in the fields alongside local farmers. Here, in this fusion of tradition and technology, they find not just hardship, but a profound sense of purpose. Empowering Rural Prosperity: The Role of Technology Institutes in Agricultural Renaissance From Dali to Hangzhou, a new narrative is being woven by the groundbreaking reality show "Debut! Science and Technology Institutes", supported by China Central Television and Pinduoduo. It’s a tale of innovation and collaboration where students and farmers unite under the same sky, sharing meals, homes, and labor to empower rural economies. In the heart of Yunnan's Gusheng village, beneath the canopy of stars and the dim glow of field lamps, a dialogue of generations unfolds. "Change your profession, don't pursue agriculture," urged Uncle Li, wiping sweat from his brow after a day's harvest of lettuce. The students of the Science and Technology Institute nodded solemnly, no strangers to such advice. Yet, their eyes shimmered not with…

Bridging Tradition with Modern Science In the realm of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Group (GP) stands as a vanguard, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of TCM culture. Embracing brands like Baiyunshan and Huangzhong, GP integrates this mission into every facet of its operations. Through technological leadership and brand innovation, Baiyunshan and Huangzhong not only delve deep into the cultural essence of TCM but also blend it harmoniously with modern science, injecting new vitality into the heritage and innovation of TCM culture. The journey towards building TCM intellectual property (IP) has seen Baiyunshan and Huangzhong forge a distinctive path. Beyond focusing on product quality and efficacy, they embed elements of TCM culture into product design, packaging, and promotion. Take for example the star product, Baiyunshan Banlangen (板蓝根) Granules. Since 2007, GP has collaborated closely with a team led by Academician Zhong Nanshan to conduct over a decade of scientific research on Banlangen Granules. This extensive research has explored its pharmacological effects, substance basis, and mechanisms of action, providing a solid scientific foundation for the modern application of traditional Chinese medicine. These efforts have earned the product a reputation for blending "ancient medicine with refined modernity." Modernizing TCM for Contemporary Lifestyles…

On July 8th, the opening ceremony of the "Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Folk Song Performance Talent Development" project was held in Beijing, marking a significant initiative aimed at nurturing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of folk songs in the region. This project, funded by the Beijing Cultural and Art Foundation and organized by the China Conservatory of Music, underscores the intertwined regional and cultural connections among Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is not only geographically contiguous but also shares a deep cultural affinity, reflected in its abundant reservoir of folk songs that encapsulate the emotional richness and practical wisdom of the local populace. The project has assembled a teaching team comprising authoritative vocalists, educators, music theorists, and experts in ethnic and folk music, tasked with imparting their knowledge to 30 participants. These participants include arts school teachers, professional ensemble performers, middle and high school music educators, and university students from the region. During the opening ceremony, both teachers and students watched promotional videos showcasing the diverse array of folk songs from Beijing, sparking a dialogue about the importance of these musical treasures. Li Lin, Associate Professor at the China Conservatory of Music and project leader, emphasized the necessity of bringing…

Recently, with the simultaneous release of popular ancient costume dramas on major long-video platforms, the competition for the summer blockbuster season has intensified. Among the many highly anticipated dramas, "Dashing Youth" , launched on Youku, stands out uniquely. It belongs to the traditional genre of martial arts dramas but has carved out a new path by presenting a fresh perspective and innovative production that resonates with a youthful audience. Describing it succinctly as a good drama is challenging, yet this complexity doesn't hinder its spread among younger viewers. It vividly portrays the thrilling world of martial arts and paints a captivating picture of heroic figures. The bold youthful spirit and the protagonists' journey of growth in the vast world resonate deeply with the audience. The series features high-intensity action sequences and visually stunning designs that embrace traditional Chinese aesthetics, providing an engaging visual experience. Even though the ultimate goal may not be immediately apparent, following the young heroes as they navigate the martial arts world is compelling in itself. In today's drama market, "Dashing Youth" represents a rare breed of martial arts drama that appeals to the "youthful" sentiment. However, its debut on Youku is not surprising. In recent years,…

In the realm of historical detective dramas, "Records of Strange Events in the Tang Dynasty" has emerged as a refreshing wave. Anchored by the popular duo Guo Jingyu and Yang Zhigang, the series quietly captured attention initially, but swiftly rose to prominence due to its superior quality. Now, the much-anticipated sequel is finally on the horizon. "Records of Strange Events in the Tang Dynasty 2" is set to dazzle audiences next week, marking a full-blown resurgence for Peach Studio just in time for the summer blockbuster season. The first installment's gripping tales have undoubtedly left a lasting impression on many fans. Renowned for his formidable martial prowess, Lu Lingfeng (portrayed by Yang Xuwen) and Di Renjie's only closed-door disciple, Su Wuming (played by Yang Zhigang), bravely tackled and solved eight extraordinary cases within Chang'an City. In the second season, the duo shifts their focus from Chang'an to the Western Regions. Set during the prosperous era of the Tang Dynasty in 712 AD, the outward splendor and festivity mask the turbulent currents within the imperial court. The power struggle between the Crown Prince and Princess factions is nearing a boiling point. Having earned significant acclaim for their previous achievements, Lu Lingfeng…