In the heart of Cao County, a quiet revolution has been underway, transforming the fortunes of its youth through an unexpected avenue: Hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing. For decades, opportunities for young locals to break into wealth creation were limited without powerful connections or resorting to less savory means. However, against the odds, Qin Shuo carved out his path to success. From Factory Floors to Fashion In 2016, Qin Shuo, then 18, abandoned his studies and ventured to Beijing as a factory worker crafting paper boxes. The monotony pushed him to seek more fulfilling work, leading to a stint as a car salesman. Despite trying his hand at various roles, including selling Chery and Honda cars, he found himself dissatisfied and struggling financially. Returning home to Cao County in 2019, Qin Shuo stumbled upon an opportunity in Hanfu. Initially a sideline to earn extra cash, Qin Shuo quickly recognized the burgeoning demand for original Hanfu designs. His first attempt, albeit with a steep learning curve and initial setbacks, eventually paved the way for his entrepreneurial breakthrough. Seizing the Hanfu Market Qin Shuo’s early forays into selling Hanfu were modest, starting with a few designs sourced from friends. His persistence paid off…

In recent years, the popularity of Hanfu has surged across China, particularly evident during events like the Jinhu Hanfu Cultural Consumption Season. People flock to ancient capitals like Hedou, clad in exquisite Hanfu attire, to indulge in traditional foods, capture memorable moments against iconic landmarks, and eagerly share their experiences on social media. Hanfu has become more than just a garment; it's a cultural statement, often eclipsing even the weather in conversations. The Evolution of Hanfu: From Tradition to Trend Hanfu, by definition, refers to traditional Chinese attire that dates back to ancient times. As Professor Huang Qiang, a renowned expert in clothing history, explains, references to Hanfu can be found in ancient texts dating back to the times of the Yellow Emperor and Yao-Shun era. Each dynasty in Chinese history contributed unique styles to Hanfu, reflecting the era's aesthetic and social norms. From the deep-collared "Shenyi" of the Qin and Han dynasties, which symbolized modesty and hierarchy, to the flowing "Baoyi" robes of the Wei and Jin periods, which exuded elegance and freedom, Hanfu evolved alongside China's rich history. The Tang dynasty introduced a color-coded system where the hue of one's attire indicated social status—a system vividly captured in…

In today's fast-paced world of entertainment, where every new series competes for viewers' attention, iQIYI's latest offering, "Displacement," has emerged as a standout with its gripping narrative and stellar performances. Within just three episodes, it has captured the top spot in national viewership rankings, solidifying its status as a must-watch thriller of the year. A Bold Departure: Exploring the Intricacies of "Displacement" "Displacement" makes an immediate impression with its captivating blend of mystery and suspense. It unfolds like a labyrinthine puzzle, drawing viewers into its web of complexity and intrigue. Each episode feels like a chapter in a meticulously plotted novel, where every twist and turn adds to the suspense. What sets "Displacement" apart is not just its tightly woven plot but also the depth of character portrayal by its talented ensemble cast. Ma Yi-li: Transforming Roles as Detective Jiang Guangming Ma Yi-li, known for her previous roles that showcase strength and resilience, takes on a new persona in "Displacement" as the composed and determined Detective Jiang Guangming. Jiang Guangming possesses a keen intellect and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. Ma Yi-li effortlessly embodies the character's resolve and compassion, portraying her as a detective who refuses to give…

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the tranquil waters of Lake Qingshan (青山湖), an electric energy begins to pulse through the air. The once-quiet shores of Hangzhou's western district are transformed into a vibrant tapestry of sound, color, and youthful exuberance. Welcome to the World Music Park, where the heartbeat of a new generation reverberates across the landscape. Celebrating Diversity Through Music In recent years, outdoor music festivals have become a cultural phenomenon, captivating the hearts and minds of young people across the globe. What was once a niche experience has blossomed into a mainstream celebration of art, community, and self-expression. The World Music Park at Lake Qingshan stands as a testament to this evolution, offering a stage where emerging talents can shine and established artists can reinvent themselves. As twilight settles over the park, the first chords of the evening strike a harmonious balance between anticipation and nostalgia. The crowd, a sea of eager faces, sways in unison as the opening act takes the stage. It's a moment of collective breath-holding, as if the entire audience is poised on the edge of something extraordinary. Empowering Voices and Stories Among the performers tonight is…

Myrica rubra season is upon us, with its fleeting taste lasting just over a week. Even if one were to eat it without restraint, there's always more than can be consumed. This fruit, difficult to preserve, finds its way into wine barrels, where it transforms into a delightful concoction known as Myrica rubra wine. However, some people have taken to using Myrica rubra wine as a medicinal remedy for diarrhea, which is quite far-fetched. What's more concerning is that some individuals allow minors to consume Myrica rubra wine, oblivious to the neurological damage alcohol can cause. This article will further reveal why not recommend using Myrica Rubra Wine for Medicinal Purposes. The Historical Context of "Yi Jiu (毉酒) " The Chinese character for "medicine" (医), in its traditional form "毉," has deep ties to alcohol. Xu Shen's "Shuowen Jiezi" states, "毉, the tool to treat diseases. Derived from 'shaman (巫) ' and ' alcohol (酉)'." Similarly, the "Book of Rites" also mentions "毉酒," clearly connecting ancient Chinese medicine to shamanism and alcohol. In an era when humanity did not understand alcohol's neurodepressive effects, the hallucinations induced by alcoholic beverages were naturally associated with divine revelations and transformative experiences akin to…

When one thinks of Jiangsu's culinary delights, cities like Suzhou and Yangzhou often come to mind. However, Yancheng, a coastal city in eastern Jiangsu, is a hidden gem that offers an explosion of fresh and savory flavors, rivaling its more famous neighbors. Despite its low profile, Yancheng boasts a rich agricultural heritage and an impressive variety of dishes that reflect both its coastal and inland influences. A Breakfast Feast: From Elegant Teas to Humble Pancakes Yancheng's breakfast scene is a carb-lover's paradise, blending the sweetness of Suzhou and the savory richness of Taizhou. From the delicate Jiangnan morning tea to the humble yet satisfying egg pancake, Yancheng sets a table that celebrates simplicity with a burst of flavors. It features a delightful blend of refined Jiangnan morning teas, hearty egg pancakes, and a variety of seafood and freshwater delicacies. Among these, the most notable is the Dongtai Fish Soup Noodles, with its creamy broth that promises an umami overload. This culinary tradition has roots in nearby Yangzhou and Taizhou but has evolved in Yancheng to boast an even sweeter and fresher taste. The fish soup noodles, with their milky-white broth, are a local favorite that perfectly encapsulates the city's essence.…

When asked which Chinese provincial capital stays up the latest, many might think of bustling metropolises like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. However, the unexpected answer lies further south—in Nanning, the capital city of Guangxi province. Despite its low-key presence among provincial capitals, Nanning shines brightly in the arena of nightlife, consistently topping charts: from being dubbed the "latest to sleep" city with an average bedtime around 0:55 AM, to ranking first in "night snack vitality" among post-1995 generations according to statistics from platforms like Eleme. Nanning's residents are a busy lot who frequent night markets, indulging in skewers and snails, eagerly anticipating the fragrant allure of the first bowl of "old friend noodles (老友面)." Unlike the trendy stalls found in many cities across China, Nanning's night markets boast traditional eateries that have stood the test of time, offering a treasure trove of flavors refined over generations. In this culinary capital at the southern border, every taste has its moment to shine—whether it's raw beef, rice noodles, stir-fried snails, or the distinctive "old friend flavor" unique to Nanning. Nanning's penchant for nocturnal indulgence isn't just about staying up late; it's a cultural affair that blends local flavors with a tropical twist.…

Tonight marks the highly anticipated premiere of the historical fantasy comedy drama "Second Chance Encounters," streaming simultaneously on Taoyuan and Youku. As I watched the trailer, I couldn't contain my excitement; finally, a well-made historical drama to enjoy! "Second Chance Encounters" follows Qi Chunjiao (played by Song Yiren), a discus athlete experiencing the darkest period of her life. Her professional career abruptly ended, her first love confession failed, and she faced estrangement from her mother—all these troubles almost overwhelmed her. Then, a sudden accident leaves Qi Chunjiao with a head injury, and when she wakes up, she finds herself reincarnated as Gu Qingqiao, a wealthy young lady in ancient times. In this fantastical journey through time, Qi Chunjiao discovers that many familiar faces from her past life, including her crush Duan Yu (played by Guo Junchen), now exist in different roles around her. Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the "Four Spirits" treasures. Through their growing camaraderie, Qi Chunjiao gradually unravels the knots of her previous life and resolves to embrace this new beginning. A Fresh Perspective on Historical Dramas "Second Chance Encounters" breaks away from traditional historical drama tropes where the male and female leads are typically…

In recent years, Nanjiluo (南极洛) has exploded in popularity on platforms like Xiaohongshu and within the outdoor community. However, due to various reasons, it only opened to the public this month. With a daily visitor limit of 200 people, this once-secretive place has retained its enigmatic charm. Imagine spending hours without any signal, surrounded by meadows, blooming flowers, serene lakes, majestic snow-capped mountains, and flowing rivers. Nanjiluo offers a diverse tapestry of highland landscapes that captivate the soul. Its allure lies in the fact that everyone can find their own slice of paradise here, a place that resonates with their inner desires and dreams. The Enchantment of Loguqing (罗古箐) Loguqing is a name known only to locals. This hidden gem is a sanctuary of pristine forests, alpine meadows, and gentle streams. As I wander through this untouched haven, I can’t help but envy the people of Yunnan. Guarded by the humble Pumi people for generations, this idyllic retreat boasts leisurely cows and sheep, and lively piglets frolicking freely. I often find myself daydreaming about growing up in such a tranquil environment, wondering how different life would be. From Altay to Hulunbuir, we are drawn to pastures because they are flat,…

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…