Embracing Innovation: Yonxing Animation's Showcase at the 2nd Pearl River Delta Film and Television Industry Development Exchange On July 28th, the second Pearl River Delta Film and Television Industry Development Exchange and the "Tide Rising in the Pearl River" Online Audiovisual Creative Activity kicked off in Guangzhou. This event, designed to foster high-quality development in the film and television industries of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, featured a special exhibition attracting 37 representatives from various film and television institutions across the three regions. Among the highlights was the presence of Yonxing Animation, a leading animation company in Guangzhou, showcasing its latest blockbuster, "Dust of Falling." "Dust of Falling" (落凡尘): A Fusion of Traditional Chinese Myth and Modern Animation "Dust of Falling" has garnered significant attention not only for its impeccable quality but also for achieving the highest rating among domestic films released during the summer season. The movie explores the legendary tale of the descendants of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, depicting their alliance to retrieve scattered stars in a riveting adventure. The film's innovative narrative approach combines elements of traditional Chinese mythology with contemporary animation techniques, aiming to captivate both domestic and international audiences. Cultivating Cultural Integration: Yonxing Animation's Strategic…

The Rise of "Stamp Collecting" in Tourism In recent years, "stamp collecting" as a tourist activity has taken on a new dimension, captivating the interest of many young travelers. Originally conceived as a way to enrich travel experiences by collecting unique stamps from museums, cultural shops, and scenic spots, this practice has evolved from a quaint hobby into a trend with commercial implications. The charm of collecting stamps lies in their intricate designs, which often reflect the rich history and regional characteristics of a destination. This hobby not only offers a tangible memento but also encourages deeper engagement with local culture, thereby driving tourism-related consumption. As Zhang Yi, CEO and Chief Analyst of iiMedia Research, highlights, the surge in popularity of travel stamp collecting aligns with current trends and consumer demands, contributing positively to cultural expression and boosting tourism spending. However, this once joyful and nostalgic activity is now facing significant challenges due to its commercialization. The Shift from Free to Paid Stamping With the rise of the stamp-collecting trend, many businesses have started charging for the privilege of stamping. What began as a free, self-guided activity has transformed into a commercial enterprise. While this shift helps businesses increase revenue,…

In recent years, tomb-raiding themed movies have been a staple in the realm of online entertainment, but their appeal seems to be waning. Once a genre that captured audiences with tales of adventure and mystique, it has now fallen victim to oversaturation and uninspired adaptations. The latest addition, "The Quest for the Dragon's Coffin," (寻龙迷棺) appears to borrow heavily from the classic "Ghost Blows Out the Light," a move that's become all too common in the industry. The Rise and Fall of Tomb-Raiding Epics The allure of tomb-raiding narratives initially captivated audiences with their blend of ancient mysteries and modern-day adventure. However, the saturation of the market with low-budget productions has diluted their appeal. "The Quest for the Dragon's Coffin" stands as a testament to this trend, boasting a meager production budget of only 5 million yuan—a stark contrast to the multimillion-dollar productions that dominate the online streaming platforms. Clocking in at less than 70 minutes, the film barely exceeds the length of a single television episode, leaving viewers craving more substance. Casting Shadows over Stardom Unlike its predecessors, this film fails to enlist any A-list stars or even the once-popular "faded" Hong Kong actors that have become a staple in online…

The Chinese summer box office remains fiercely competitive, with standout hits like "Claw Machine" leading the charge, having already surpassed 1.5 billion yuan and poised to break the 4 billion mark by the end of its run. Amidst this success, actor Shen Teng's (沈腾) performance has propelled him to the top spot, surpassing even Wu Jing, while Ma Li has solidified her position in the top five with 2.1 billion yuan, making her the only female actor in the top ten of historical box office receipts. The Challenge and Triumph of Female Actors in Film In the film industry, achieving prominence as a female actor is no easy feat. However, once recognized by audiences, their career trajectory can skyrocket, leading to increased opportunities and recognition. This trend has prompted numerous influencers to transition into movies in recent years, including Zhao Liying (赵丽颖). A New Dawn: "Sunflower" (向阳花) and Its Potential Impact 01 Directed by Feng Xiaogang (冯小刚) "Sunflower" unfolds within a women's prison, where the prison guard Deng Hong befriends a deaf-mute inmate named Hei Mei, and teaches her sign language to help her adapt. Upon their release, the duo embarks on a risky venture on the fringes of the law, guided by Deng Hong towards…

Rediscovering Heritage through Literature From July 26th to 29th, the 32nd National Book Fair was held in Jinan, where children's literature writer Da Xiu, originally from Heze, showcased his masterpiece "Climbing the Pole". This novel focuses on the traditional acrobatics of southwestern Shandong, telling the story of several acrobatic youths who, despite challenges, dedicated themselves to mastering their craft over a decade, eventually taking the traditional Chinese acrobatic art of "Climbing the Pole" to the international stage. It promotes positive values and is well-suited for today's children. Under the theme of "Reading for Growth", the fair not only highlighted mainstream literature but also celebrated cultural diversity. Da Xiu's "Climbing the Pole" stands out as it delves into Heze's acrobatic traditions, enriching the legacy of southwestern Shandong. Journey of Inspiration: From Childhood Dreams to Literary Success Reflecting on his childhood and hometown, Da Xiu shared, "Many of my stories originate from my childhood and hometown. Every time I write, it's like revisiting my childhood and hometown, and 'Climbing the Pole' is no exception." He fondly recalled the vibrant era of acrobatics in Huanghetan Village during the 1990s, where he and his friends eagerly awaited the arrival of acrobatic performances, finding inspiration…

Revolutionizing Healthcare: China's Journey Towards Self-Sufficiency in Medical Technology In recent decades, China has embarked on a transformative journey in the field of high-end medical equipment, marking significant strides towards achieving technological independence in healthcare innovation. Historically, China heavily relied on imported technologies, especially in areas like advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, where Western nations dominated. However, recent breakthroughs in domestic technological prowess are reshaping this landscape. Dr. Fan Guoguang, Director of Radiology at China Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, reflects on the evolution: "Since the 1970s, MRI technology has been primarily controlled by Western countries. Each time China developed comparable MRI equipment, foreign brands swiftly introduced superior products." With a burgeoning population and rising living standards, China's demand for high-end medical equipment has been substantial, necessitating significant imports. The drive to accelerate the localization of high-end medical equipment is crucial not only for technological advancement but also for enhancing healthcare quality and reducing costs. In a medical equipment research and development workshop not far from hospitals, researchers are diligently conducting mass production tests on fiber optic spectrometers for MRI systems. Recent successes in key technologies such as fiber optic spectrometers, dual-energy gradient systems, and gradient amplifiers have marked…

The 10th Nishan Forum of World Civilizations was held on July 10-11 at Nishan or Mount Ni (尼山) in Qufu, Shandong Province, with the main theme of "Traditional Culture and Modern Civilization". Chinese and foreign guests gathered at the foot of the Nishan Mountain to carry out civilization exchanges and dialogues, strengthen international humanistic exchanges and cooperation. This year's forum held for the first time a sports culture forum, the theme is "Chinese traditional culture and Olympic spirit". IOC President Bach said, "I am glad to learn that the theme of traditional Chinese culture and Olympic spirit has become an important part of the Nishan Forum. When the founder of the modern Olympic movement, Coubertin, revived the Olympic Games, he saw them as a way to build bridges and promote understanding among nations and peoples around the world. The Nishan Forum shares this goal, deepening understanding among the world's civilizations through respectful exchange and dialogue based on the transmission of Confucius' wisdom." The beauty of Global harmony The beauty of harmony lies in combining differences. Participants believe that the Nishan Forum of World Civilizations has become an important platform for practicing global civilization initiatives, promoting the common values of all…

The Marvels of 6G: Beyond the Numbers As we relish the benefits of the world's largest 5G network, a significant milestone has emerged: China has successfully established the world's first 6G field test network, seamlessly integrating intelligence and communication. While 5G continues to enhance our digital experiences, the race for 6G technology is already in full swing, promising advancements that are far beyond a mere numerical increment. Unprecedented Speeds and Reduced Latency The most striking upgrade that 6G offers is a quantum leap in data transmission speeds. According to Liu Guangyi, chief expert at China Mobile Research Institute, 6G is theoretically capable of boosting data transfer rates to over 100 times that of 5G, achieving speeds of several gigabytes or even terabytes per second. Downloading a 1GB movie, which currently takes around three seconds on a 5G network, will take less than a second, possibly as little as 0.03 seconds, in the 6G era. Another pivotal advancement is the dramatic reduction in network latency. While 5G operates with millisecond-level delays, 6G aims to achieve microsecond-level transmission delays, a thousand times shorter than the blink of an eye. This leap in latency will significantly enhance the performance of real-time applications. The…

A Summer Box Office Hit As of July 27, 2024, the summer film season has surpassed 7 billion RMB in box office revenue, reflecting a robust performance in the industry. Among the array of highly anticipated releases, the film The Enigma (解密) has been making waves. With advance and preview ticket sales surpassing 30 million RMB, this cinematic adaptation of Mai Jia's popular novel has captivated audiences with its tantalizing "dream code" concept. The excitement surrounding The Enigma reached new heights with a special media event on July 27. In collaboration with Bilibili, the Movie Channel hosted a live-streamed "Behind the Scenes of The Enigma" event, which featured an in-depth exploration of the film's creation. This event not only offered a glimpse into the film’s artistic vision but also celebrated the Shanghai premiere, providing a platform for industry insiders and fans to engage with the film’s innovative aspects. Dreams and Cinematic Innovation At the heart of The Enigma lies a series of enigmatic dream sequences that create a unique and mesmerizing visual style. The live-streamed event featured an engaging discussion with director Chen Sicheng (陈思诚) and lead actor Liu Haoran (刘昊然), who delved into the creative process behind these dreamlike sequences. Chen Sicheng, known for his…

Empowering the Community: Shanxi's Medical Mission to Xinjiang In the rugged terrain of Xinjiang, where the call for medical expertise is both urgent and profound, a dedicated team of doctors from Shanxi has embarked on a transformative journey. Among them, Dr. Deng Haixia, who arrived in August 2023 at the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps Sixth Division Hospital's Xinhai Farm branch, has made an indelible impact. Her year-long mission has not only addressed immediate medical needs but also cultivated a sustainable future for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the region. From Temporary Relief to Lasting Legacy Dr. Deng's work goes beyond mere patient care. She views her role as a conduit for long-term change, aiming to elevate the level of TCM services in Xinjiang. Her approach involves more than treating ailments; it is about transferring knowledge and skills to local healthcare providers. “True empowerment is about creating a self-sustaining healthcare model,” Dr. Deng explains. “I’m focused on ensuring that the team here can continue delivering high-quality care even after my departure.” To achieve this, she meticulously trains local practitioners in acupuncture and massage techniques, essential for treating conditions such as cervical spondylosis, lower back pain, and post-stroke sequelae. A Culture…

Pandas as Global Sports Ambassadors Pandas have emerged as beloved symbols not just of China's natural heritage but also as prominent ambassadors in international sporting events. The 2024 Paris Olympics are no exception, where these charismatic animals continue to captivate hearts. In the heart of the Paris Olympic Village along the Seine River, the panda motif adorns the headquarters of the Chinese sports delegation. Volunteers and staff proudly sport panda-themed badges, showcasing the universal appeal of these iconic creatures beyond geographical borders. From "Basi" to "Kobe": A Legacy of Olympic Spirit The story of pandas in the Olympics traces back decades, starting with "Basi," who became the prototype for the Beijing Asian Games mascot, "Panpan." Born in Baoxing County, Sichuan, Basi's journey from the icy waters of Basi Gou to international fame symbolized resilience and the spirit of sportsmanship. Basi's impact extended beyond China's borders when she visited San Diego in 1987, igniting the "panda fever" along the West Coast of the United States. Her popularity soared, with thousands queuing for hours just to catch a glimpse, demonstrating the global fascination with these gentle giants. Cultural Bridges and International Cooperation Pandas have not only captured hearts but also facilitated diplomatic…

Discovering Su Bei's Unique Appeal In the scorching heat of July, where even the air seems to shimmer with intensity, Su Bei (肃北) County in northwestern Gansu Province offers an unexpected respite. As the temperature soars elsewhere, Su Bei, with its unique geographical and cultural features, emerges as an alluring oasis for summer travelers. Su Bei County, nestled in the northern foothills of the Qilian Mountains, is a haven of contrasts. The region is divided into two distinct areas: the southern and northern mountains. With an average altitude of over 2000 meters in the southern region, Su Bei experiences a pleasantly cool summer climate, often hovering around 23 degrees Celsius. A Cultural and Natural Wonderland Gansu's only Mongolian autonomous county, Su Bei, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Picture vast grasslands that stretch like a green sea, majestic snow-capped Qilian Mountains, and the crystal-clear Dan River meandering through the county. Together, these features create a picturesque and culturally vibrant tourist corridor. In early July, Su Bei launched its "Weekend Cool Escape Experience Tour," an initiative designed to blend culture, sports, cuisine, and intangible cultural heritage into a comprehensive tourism extravaganza. The program aims to attract visitors with a…

Discoveries and Conservation Milestones Guangdong Province, renowned for its vibrant economy and bustling cities, also boasts a rich tapestry of biodiversity that has been meticulously preserved and documented over the years. Recently, the 14th Standing Committee of the Guangdong Provincial People's Congress convened in Guangzhou for its eleventh session, highlighting significant strides in biodiversity conservation across the region. The session featured a comprehensive report by the Guangdong Provincial People's Congress Standing Committee Special Research Group on the state of biodiversity conservation in the province. One of the standout revelations from the report was the discovery of over 60 new species of flora and fauna since 2020, including the Lotus Peak Spiny Frog, Chaozhou Lysimachia, Purple Short-Stamen Tea, Moss-Spotted Odorous Frog, and Lingnan Two-Headed Snake. Guangdong Province, with its diverse ecological landscapes ranging from lush forests to coastal wetlands, hosts a staggering array of wildlife and plant species. The report detailed the presence of 6,658 species of higher plants and 1,052 species of terrestrial vertebrates, reflecting the province's biological richness and ecological significance. In recent years, Guangdong has made substantial advancements in biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts. The establishment of a robust biodiversity monitoring network, including designated monitoring plots and transects…

A Historic Achievement in Aviation Xi'an Airport has cemented its place in aviation history with a remarkable milestone on July 27th, surpassing all previous records in daily passenger traffic. Welcoming an unprecedented 154,600 travelers in a single day, the airport has set a new benchmark since its establishment. This achievement not only underscores Xi'an's pivotal role as a major aviation hub in China but also reflects the robust growth in air travel demand amid the summer season. Strategic Expansion to Meet Rising Demand Driven by a surge in domestic and international travel, Xi'an Airport has strategically expanded its operations to cater to the influx of passengers. Recognizing the need to accommodate varying travel preferences and requirements, the airport has collaborated closely with airlines to enhance route connectivity. The reintroduction of international routes to key destinations like Osaka and Ho Chi Minh City has contributed to the airport's comprehensive network, which now spans 30 international connections. Enhancing Passenger Experience Amidst Challenges As the summer peak presents operational challenges, Xi'an Airport remains steadfast in prioritizing passenger comfort and service reliability. With a proactive approach to mitigate potential disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions, the airport has implemented robust contingency plans. Notably, the…

Innovating Towards Economic Resilience: Lishui's Industrial Advancements In the bustling high-tech zone of Lishui, Zhejiang Province, trucks laden with containers laden wait in line, ready for shipment to Ningbo Port. This scene encapsulates the industrious spirit and economic vitality currently defining this region. One of the standout products being shipped is a newly developed fireproof vacuum cleaner, the result of indigenous innovation by Zhejiang Dongyi Magnetic Industry Co., Ltd. According to the company's general manager, Lü Jianfeng, these vacuum cleaners are destined for major supermarkets across Europe, where they hold a commanding 60% market share among similar products in the EU. Building on a solid foundation that saw the company achieve a production value of 150 million RMB last year, they have sustained growth of over 10% in the first half of this year. Recent statistics reveal that Lishui City in Zhejiang Province recorded a 6.9% year-on-year increase in GDP in the first half of 2024, placing it second in growth rate within the province and surpassing national and provincial averages by 1.9 and 1.3 percentage points respectively. Reflecting on this achievement, Li Jianjun, Director of the Lishui Statistics Bureau, attributes the city's success to balanced growth across the three…

In the shimmering lights of the 2024 Paris Olympics, history was once again made as Chinese athletes Huang Yuting (黄雨婷) and Sheng Lihao (盛李豪) clinched the nation's first gold medal in the 10m air rifle mixed team event. This victory not only marked a triumphant start for Team China in Paris but also ignited memories of a pivotal moment in Olympic history—the birth of China's first-ever gold medal exactly forty years ago. It was on July 29, 1984, during the Los Angeles Olympics, that shooter Xu Haifeng (许海峰) etched his name in the annals of Chinese sports. With a total score of 566, Xu Haifeng emerged victorious in the men's 50m pistol event, shattering China's Olympic gold medal drought and laying the foundation for the nation's subsequent sporting prowess on the global stage. His achievement transcended personal glory; it symbolized the rise of a nation and the rejuvenation of a people. In commemoration of this historic milestone, the film "Xu Haifeng's Gun" will be aired on July 29 by the Movie Channel. This cinematic masterpiece delves into Xu Haifeng's journey of growth and perseverance, offering audiences a glimpse into the transformative power of sports and the human spirit. A Journey of Resilience Born in 1957, Xu…

A Summer of Spectacle and Innovation From the bustling streets of Beijing to the vibrant cityscape of Shanghai, the release of  The Traveller  ("异人之下" ) has taken audiences by storm with its captivating premieres and unique promotional events. On July 25th, Shanghai's  The Traveller  gala marked another highlight in this cinematic journey. With a blend of extraordinary performances and groundbreaking technology, the event not only showcased the film's enchanting narrative but also provided a glimpse into the future of cinematic artistry. A Star-Studded Celebration The gala, broadcasted live by the movie channel's “Summer of Film” series, was a spectacular fusion of entertainment and innovation. Director Wu Ershan, along with co-directors Xia Peng and a host of talented actors including Hu Xianxu, Li Wantia, Feng Shaofeng, Qiao Zhenyu, Song Ningfeng, Wu Jiakai, and Chen Peter, engaged the audience in an immersive experience. The stage was abuzz with electrifying performances. Hu Xianxu, embodying his character Zhang Chulan, teamed up with host Lan Yu for a memorable show. Having previously wowed audiences with his dynamic performances alongside Tu Honggang, Hu brought his drumming skills into the limelight, adding a unique "electronic rap" twist that left the crowd in awe. The energy of the night escalated as performances…

It's becoming increasingly challenging for ordinary Chinese families to accumulate savings of three hundred thousand yuan. This amount represents a significant financial threshold, marking one's entry into the middle class and the ability to lead a relatively comfortable life. However, experts and scholars are now cautioning that even if individuals manage to save over three hundred thousand yuan by next year, their financial outlook may not be as prosperous as expected. In fact, they could potentially face three major challenges that could undermine their financial stability. Declining Deposit Rates and Depreciation Currently, China's economic situation remains uncertain, exacerbated by a challenging job market. Many people have adopted a cautious approach, saving money for unforeseen future needs amidst pessimism about their future income prospects. This trend has contributed to an increase in household savings rates, as individuals prioritize financial security. Paradoxically, the economic slowdown necessitates boosting domestic consumption to sustain economic growth. This conflicting dynamic has created a situation where the government encourages people to spend while individuals continue to prioritize saving. To stimulate consumption, one crucial measure has been to reduce bank deposit interest rates. As banks lower deposit rates, the interest income earned by savers diminishes, effectively causing the…

"Wind blows through Luzhou, carrying the fragrance of wine." This well-known proverb from the Sichuan-Chongqing region encapsulates Luzhou's identity. Mention Luzhou, and the immediate reaction is often, "Oh! Luzhou Laojiao (泸州老窖), right?" Indeed, Luzhou Laojiao is a prestigious representative of this city. Yet, to those who aren't aficionados of the drink, it may seem like Luzhou's fame is solely tied to its liquor. However, as the once-hidden ancient towns and small cities become overrun with tourists, Luzhou, the southern Sichuan wine city, resurfaces in our travel radar. It offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural immersion—ideal for those yearning to unwind. Beyond its renowned liquor, Luzhou embodies a spirit of "laziness"—a relaxed pace of life. There's no rush to check off tourist spots or stick to a tight schedule. From early morning to late evening, Luzhou offers not just wine but also a "spirit of the wine god." The Heart of Luzhou’s Winemaking Luzhou's reputation as a wine city isn't just for show. The city is renowned for its use of single grain fermentation in making strong aromatic liquors. While most others use multi-grain fermentation, which is cost-effective, Luzhou Laojiao's single grain method, primarily using sorghum, stands out in…

The Gastronomic Journey of Shunde Shunde, a region in Guangdong province, China, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, earning the title of "World's Capital of Gastronomy." The story of Shunde's rise as a global food destination is a blend of history, culture, and unparalleled dedication to the art of food. The tale begins with the legendary Han Dynasty envoy Tang Meng, who journeyed to the southern kingdom of Nanyue, discovering a land rich with diverse and exquisite ingredients. In 1621, Huang Shijun, the first top scholar from Shunde, established the Qinghui Garden, which later passed into the hands of the Long family. This garden, along with many others in the region, exemplifies the unique blend of natural beauty and human artistry that defines Lingnan (Cantonese) garden culture. Lingnan Gardens: A Fusion of Nature and Art The concept of gardens in Lingnan, which includes Shunde, has a long and storied history. As early as 2000 years ago, the Nanyue Kingdom established royal gardens in this region. The tradition of garden-making evolved significantly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, influenced by the region's flourishing overseas trade and cultural exchanges. These gardens reflect a unique blend of Chinese and Western, northern and…