In The Rise of Ning (锦绣安宁), a new historical drama adapted from the novel Prime Minister’s Guide, two characters with humble beginnings navigate their way through the complexities of power and family dynamics. This isn’t merely a story of one individual's transformation—it’s a journey of dual growth, where both the male and female protagonists pursue justice and empowerment from their disadvantaged positions. With rich character development, the series introduces Ro Shenyuan (罗慎远) and Ro Yining (罗宜宁), two resilient figures overcoming their oppressive family backgrounds in strikingly parallel paths. This "dual upbringing" concept presents audiences with a captivating exploration of ambition, loyalty, and self-discovery. Ro Shenyuan’s Path: The Underdog Turned Conqueror Ro Shenyuan's backstory is riddled with hardship and resilience. As a neglected son in a prominent household, he endures the harsh treatment of a father who sees little worth in him. Forbidden from pursuing education or even stepping outside the manor, Shenyuan’s world is small and brutal. Yet, despite his father’s antagonism, Shenyuan’s intelligence and hidden ambition carve out a different path for him. With the help of a beloved teacher, he discovers the courage to rise above his fate. Tragically, his mentor's unjust death becomes a lifelong source of…

A Bold New Frontier in Animation and Ecology As the first domestic animated film to tackle the theme of the Yangtze River’s unique ecosystem, The Dance With the Finless Promise (江豚·风时舞) boldly ventures into a relatively untouched genre. Its main character, the Yangtze River dolphin, shines a light on China’s endangered aquatic wildlife and broader environmental concerns. Despite the technical and storytelling challenges of portraying aquatic life, this film attempts to immerse viewers in an underrepresented realm of nature that is both visually complex and emotionally delicate. While animal-themed films have long enchanted audiences worldwide, they mostly center on terrestrial animals. Films about underwater creatures remain rare, often limited by technical constraints, the challenge of capturing aquatic behavior, and viewers' limited emotional connection to marine animals. These factors set The Dance With the Finless Promise apart, as it ambitiously combines an artistic portrayal of an endangered species with the practical goals of raising awareness about ecological preservation. Creating a realistic underwater world poses significant technical challenges. Underwater scenes demand specialized equipment and expertise, such as high-quality underwater cameras, lighting adjustments for variable water conditions, and the need to replicate water’s movement realistically. The high production costs and complex requirements for…

In a television landscape dominated by fast-paced, short-form series, director Zhao Qichen (赵启辰) has crafted a refreshing alternative with Go East. Building on his earlier success with Life Begins (卿卿日常), this ambitious series offers an innovative blend of historical settings, youth drama, and well-timed humor. Set within the fictional imperial capital of Dayong (大雍), Zhao weaves a story that transcends traditional boundaries, taking viewers on a journey of discovery, cultural clash, and personal growth. Through its rich narrative and the distinct personalities of its main characters, the series delivers a unique viewing experience—an invitation to see ancient struggles through a modern lens, punctuated with laughter and emotional resonance. A Unique World of Cultures and Contrasts Go East revolves around a diverse and vividly imagined empire, where seven unique states, or “fiefs,” interact within the expansive halls of Go East, a central governing institution. Each fiefdom, or “band,” is represented with its own distinct language, symbols, and cultural practices. This diversity is not merely for aesthetic effect; it’s integral to the story. Zhao notes that by creating such distinct cultural identities, he introduces both dramatic conflict and cross-cultural exchange. From the matriarchal customs of the Moon Shadow clan to the mountainous,…

On October 31, 2024, Tokyo hosted the 9th HSK Study Abroad and Employment Fair. China's rising global influence became an attractive destination for young Japanese seeking academic and professional opportunities. With nearly 60 Chinese universities and Chinese-Japanese businesses participating, the event served as a vibrant platform for showcasing China's dynamic market and its diverse possibilities to Japanese youth. One of the standout moments came from Ayata Utsunomiya, a recent Waseda University graduate who shared his journey and insights into the growing opportunities in China. "During my time studying in China, I realized just how vast the potential of the Chinese market is. Seeing Japanese companies thrive in China inspired me to consider working for Japanese firms closely connected to Chinese trade and business," Utsunomiya said. His remarks reflected the broader sentiment at the fair, where many young Japanese participants were eager to explore China's economic prospects and cultural exchanges. The Dynamic Appeal of Studying and Working in China The HSK Fair saw a high turnout, with young attendees ranging from university students to recent graduates seeking to understand China's potential as a place for higher education and professional growth. Among the most enthusiastic were three sisters of mixed Chinese-Japanese descent,…

Zheng Qinwen's (郑钦文) breakthrough year continued with an inspiring run to the final of the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh. Despite falling short in a dramatic encounter with Coco Gauff, Zheng's journey was a testament to her incredible growth and determination. The final, which lasted 3 hours and 4 minutes, saw Zheng take the first set 6-3, only to see Gauff fight back in the following two sets, winning 6-4 and 7-6. Although Zheng could not clinch the title, her performance throughout the week showed that she has genuinely arrived among tennis's elite. In a match that was as emotionally taxing as physically demanding, Zheng had her chances. Leading 3-1 in the second set and holding a 5-4 advantage in the decider, she was just two points away from the title. However, Gauff's composure and adaptability under pressure proved decisive. Despite saving four championship points, Zheng ultimately couldn't maintain her momentum, succumbing in a tightly contested tiebreak. This narrow defeat highlighted just how close Zheng was to achieving her dream, but it also underscored how much she has learned on the world stage. Though Zheng's quest for a first WTA Finals title fell short, 2024 has been a year filled…

On November 8, 2024, a historic milestone marked a new chapter in tourism between China and South Korea. Implementing China's visa-free policy for South Korean nationals brought immediate benefits, with the first South Korean traveler, Mr. Lee, arriving at Ningbo (宁波) Airport on flight 9C8626. As he completed his entry without a visa, Mr. Lee shared his excitement, noting the policy's significant time and cost savings. His arrival was symbolic of a broader trend: South Korean nationals were now free to travel to China for business, tourism, or family visits without the burden of securing a visa—valid for stays up to 15 days. This move is part of a trial visa-free policy for nine countries, which began on November 8 and will run through December 31, 2025. The policy covers South Korea, alongside other nations, and aims to promote tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. The immediate impact of this policy was felt across the travel industry, with booking platforms like Ctrip reporting a noticeable uptick in South Korean visitors planning trips to China. A Surge in South Korean Tourism to China The visa-free policy has injected a sense of optimism into China's tourism sector, especially regarding South Korean travelers. Before…

On November 5th, 2024, the Peruvian capital of Lima became a vibrant centre for business, culture, and opportunity as the "Opportunities China · Brand Chongqing" promotion event unfolded at the China-Peru Friendship Center. Initially expecting around 65 attendees, this grand event saw an overwhelming turnout of over 200 individuals, all eager to explore the opportunities that Chongqing—China's western powerhouse—has to offer. The event highlighted Chongqing's thriving industries and sought to strengthen ties with Peru and Latin America, positioning the city as a critical player in the region's economic future. The promotion featured six significant aspects of Chongqing's growth: the city's innovative manufacturing ("Made in Chongqing"), educational opportunities ("Study in Chongqing"), investment potential ("Invest in Chongqing"), and cultural heritage ("The Beauty of Chongqing"), among others. These themes were showcased through various engaging activities, including a Chongqing city photo exhibition, tastings of Chongqing's renowned spicy noodles, and presentations on Chongqing's industrial strength. However, the unique cultural exchange that brought together Chinese and Peruvian traditions left the most lasting impression. Chongqing's Economic Growth and Peruvian Opportunities Chongqing is one of China's fastest-growing municipalities, with robust industries spanning from manufacturing and automotive to technology and tourism. One of the event's highlights was the promotion…

After 1799 days—more than four and a half years—Ding Junhui (丁俊晖) has finally reclaimed his spot at the pinnacle of professional snooker. On November 10, 2024, he clinched his 15th-ranking title at the World Snooker International Championship, defeating England's Chris Wakelin 10-7 in a thrilling final. This victory ended a long drought, with Ding's last ranking title coming in December 2019. His triumph was not just about winning a trophy; it symbolized a comeback story of grit, perseverance, and heart. Trials and Tribulations Ding's journey to this moment took work. Despite being one of the most talented snooker players in the world, his recent form had needed to be more consistent, and his performances often fell short in high-stakes matches. In the lead-up to this championship, his career appeared to slump. A month earlier, Chris Wakelin eliminated him early in the Wuhan Open, the very player he would face in the final. Yet, Ding's performance at the International Championship was a different story. He returned to form from the start, knocking out several top players, including world number two Kyren Wilson, in the quarterfinals. The competition at the tournament was fierce, with heavyweights like Judd Trump, Mark Selby, Shaun Murphy,…

The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as the China Airshow, opened on November 12, 2024, in Zhuhai (珠海), Guangdong (广东). This year's event has drawn over 1,000 exhibitors from 47 countries and regions, including major players like Russia, France, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Italy, each presenting their most advanced aerospace technologies. Notably, several groundbreaking "high-tech, high-precision, and cutting-edge" products made their debut, further solidifying China's role as a global leader in aerospace and defense. A Sky Full of Innovation The opening day's highlight was the breathtaking aerial performances by some of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. The Chinese J-20, J-35A, and Russia's Su-57 took to the skies in a stunning display of speed, agility, and precision. This marked the first time two new-generation Chinese stealth fighters, the J-20S and J-35A, were showcased together. The J-20S, a dual-seat, medium-to-long-range, heavy fighter, was impressed with its superior air superiority capabilities and ability to conduct air-to-ground and air-to-sea precision strikes. It's designed for sophisticated combat operations, including manned-unmanned collaborative missions. The J-35A, another new-generation stealth fighter, is focused on achieving and maintaining air superiority, targeting enemy aircraft, and intercepting missiles, thus strengthening China's position…

For most people, travelling is an opportunity to experience new places, meet new people, and capture unforgettable moments. However, for Colombian content creator Gao Fei (高飞), Xinjiang—a region often misrepresented in Western media—has become a personal mission. Having visited the vast and culturally rich Chinese province 10 times since 2021, Gao has dedicated much of his work to showing the world the authentic side of Xinjiang through the lens of his camera. Gao, a travel blogger and social media influencer, arrived in Xinjiang for the first time after being unsettled by the inaccurate portrayals he saw in Western news. What he found was a vastly different reality. "I've lived in China for nearly 20 years, and I knew that the stories I saw in the media didn't reflect what was happening here," he explains. "I wanted to come and experience Xinjiang for myself, to capture the truth and share it with others." Discovering Xinjiang's Majestic Beauty Xinjiang is known for its stunning landscapes—rolling grasslands, dramatic mountain ranges, sparkling lakes, and vast deserts. For Gao, these natural wonders have been one of the key reasons for his repeated visits. His video footage captures the grandeur of places like the vast grasslands…

Jingdezhen (景德镇), a city steeped in over two thousand years of ceramic history, continues to captivate the world with its unparalleled porcelain craftsmanship. For many international students, this ancient city in Jiangxi Province represents more than just a place to study—it symbolizes a chance to connect with a vital piece of China's cultural heritage. A recent visit by students from Morocco, Mozambique, Kazakhstan, and Iran highlights the global allure of Jingdezhen's porcelain and the profound influence of Chinese traditional arts in fostering cross-cultural understanding. In early November, a group of international students, organized by the Jiangxi International Communication Universities Alliance, travelled to the heart of China's porcelain industry to explore the world of ceramics. Their journey through the China Ceramic Museum and the Imperial Kiln Museum allowed them to witness firsthand the beauty and complexity of Chinese porcelain, which has been an integral part of both Eastern and Western cultural exchanges for centuries. As they strolled through the galleries, they were struck by the intricate designs and the historical significance of the pieces, some of which date back to the Tang Dynasty. "Seeing the porcelain in the museums was like reading a history book," says Song Yiren (宋伊人), a student…

Wang Chuqin (王楚钦), a standout member of China's national table tennis team, has long been celebrated for his remarkable skills and composure under pressure. However, an often unseen aspect of his journey to Olympic glory came to light recently: his battle with a severe shoulder injury during the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. The injury was kept under wraps until after the games. Still, the revelation has given fans a deeper appreciation for his tenacity and the physical toll elite athletes endure to perform at the highest levels. At a recent medical conference, a sports medicine expert shared the story of how Wang Chuqin's shoulder injury was treated during the Olympics, offering a rare insight into the behind-the-scenes struggles that athletes face while pursuing gold. The details, which were initially kept confidential, highlighted just how much pain and difficulty Wang endured while competing in mixed doubles and singles events at the Games. The Injury That Almost Went Unnoticed Wang Chuqin's shoulder injury first came to light after he had already won a mixed doubles gold medal alongside his partner, Sun Yingsha (孙颖莎). His victory on the doubles court was one of the standout moments of the Olympics, but it was clear…

Once viewed as a niche subculture, Esports has firmly cemented itself in the global spotlight in recent years. With competitive gaming now regarded as a professional pursuit, the lives of esports athletes are increasingly drawing attention. From rigorous training schedules to the intense pressure of international competitions, these players are redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern world. The recent documentary "One Battle, All the Way (一竞到底)" shines a light on the lives of top players, offering an intimate look into their world. The Making of a Champion Released in October 2023, "One Battle, All the Way" is the first-ever documentary to focus on competitive esports in China, explicitly highlighting the esports discipline of "Peacekeeper Elite", a popular mobile game that became an official event at the 2022 Asian Games. Directed by Yang Fan, the documentary chronicles the journey of three professional players—Zhu Bocheng (朱伯丞) (Pararboy), Feng Shujie (冯姝杰) (Suk), and Xu Zhuohang (徐舟航) (77H)—who represent the cutting-edge of competitive mobile gaming. The documentary's choice of players is no accident. Zhu Bocheng, who led the "Peacekeeper Elite" team to a gold medal at the Asian Games, epitomizes the excellence esports athletes strive for. Feng Shujie, a…

In the heart of Shanghai's bustling Nanjing West Road (南京西路), a business district valued at over a trillion yuan, lies a vibrant entrepreneurial community that nurtures startup dreams and fuels creativity. This is the WeWork China (Nanjing West Road community), where dynamic workspaces, stylish cafes, and casual lounges unite to foster a thriving environment for innovators and visionaries. One such entrepreneur is Jacob, a British expat who has made Shanghai his home for the past five and a half years. Jacob founded a visual design consultancy in this community, and despite the fast-paced demands of entrepreneurship, he still finds time to enjoy the quiet corners of his workspace, discover hidden gems in the city, or take a stroll along the lively Nanjing West Road. But his story is much more than just the daily grind of building a business—it's one of adventure, perseverance, and seizing the boundless opportunities in Shanghai. Before founding his own company, Jacob worked as an employee for WeWork in Shanghai for a year. The city's electrifying atmosphere of innovation and opportunity profoundly influenced him. After experiencing firsthand the excitement of a city constantly evolving and adapting to global trends, Jacob boldly decided to strike out on…

Longan (龙眼), often called the “jewel among fruits,” has captivated the hearts and taste buds of people in China for over two thousand years. With a rich history and a revered status in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), longan offers more than just a sweet flavor—it embodies a treasure trove of cultural significance and health benefits. A Symbol of Joy: The Tale of Lin Yutang (林语堂) and Longan Tea Longan's role in cultural traditions and daily life runs deep. One charming story features the renowned Chinese scholar and writer Lin Yutang. When Lin married Liao Cuifeng (廖翠凤), the daughter of a wealthy Xiamen businessman, he followed the local custom of drinking a bowl of longan tea served by the bride. This ritual symbolized auspicious blessings for the newlyweds. While most grooms would sip the tea politely, Lin Yutang drank the entire bowl with gusto and even devoured the longan fruit, savoring every morsel. His enthusiasm wasn’t surprising—longan is not only delicious but also believed to soothe the heart and calm the spirit, an ideal remedy for an intellectual like Lin, often immersed in strenuous writing and deep contemplation. Longan in Traditional Chinese Medicine In TCM, the gentle yet powerful properties of…

As autumn sweeps in with its cool breeze and falling leaves, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) emphasizes the importance of seasonal health. “Nourish the liver in spring, the heart in summer, the lungs in autumn, and the kidneys in winter, while supporting the spleen and stomach throughout the year.” With autumn's arrival, it’s time to turn our attention to nurturing the lungs. Not only does this align with the rhythms of nature, but it also lays the foundation for robust health throughout the year. Autumn Dryness and Seasonal Blues: Protect Your Lungs The transition from the lush vitality of summer to the cooler, drier days of autumn brings significant changes in our bodies. As nature sheds its summer abundance, the human body must also adapt. In TCM, the lungs are considered delicate organs, easily affected by environmental shifts, especially dryness. Supporting lung health in autumn equips the body with the strength needed to withstand winter’s harsher conditions. Dr. Huo Lili (霍莉莉), a chief physician at the Shanghai Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, explains that autumn dryness can deplete the body's essential moisture, especially harming the lungs. As the climate shifts from humid to arid, dryness infiltrates our respiratory system,…

In the fast-paced world of today, few wellness practices remain as accessible and timeless as the ancient Chinese method of toe-raising, known traditionally as Dun Zhong Fa (敦踵法). This simple yet powerful practice, dating back to early Chinese medical texts, has served as a tool for strengthening the body, enhancing circulation, and promoting long-term health. Today, toe-raising exercises have gained renewed attention, with modern health enthusiasts discovering how effective this small movement can be in combating sedentary habits and supporting cardiovascular health. Mentioned in ancient texts, such as the Han dynasty’s Guide to Health (引书), toe-raising has long been valued for its impact on chest health and overall circulation. Within the TCM practice of “Eight Pieces of Brocade” (八段锦), an ancient series of exercises for health preservation, the final form involves toe-raising to stimulate internal energy (Qi) and encourage smooth blood flow, reinforcing the practice's reputation as a way to “eliminate all ailments.” Toe-Raising and Traditional Chinese Medicine: An Energetic Pathway Toe-raising has a fascinating connection to TCM's meridian theory, which outlines six major energy channels running through the legs—three yin and three yang meridians, each associated with vital organs. The yin meridians (spleen, liver, kidney) travel along the inner…

In the heart of the South China Sea, East Island, a small gem among the Xisha Islands (西沙群岛), hides a surprising secret. This 1.7 square kilometer island hosts a population of approximately 400 wild cattle—an enigma that has left scientists scratching their heads. How did such a large group of cattle arrive and survive on a remote, seemingly isolated tropical island? The mystery has lingered, drawing curious researchers into an investigation that uncovered a tale stretching back centuries. East Island, situated in the eastern part of the Xisha Islands, is bathed in tropical sunlight and receives ample rainfall year-round. Its small area, roughly 2400 meters long and 1000 meters wide, is covered in dense vegetation—ideal grazing ground for cattle, as it turns out. The vegetation is robust, consisting of hardy coastal shrubs like Scaevola and hardy silverleaf trees. To preserve this delicate ecosystem, recent efforts have introduced resilient tree species like casuarina and coconut palms, enhancing the island's greenery and providing much-needed erosion control. The flourishing flora supports a diverse animal population, with birds as the island’s primary residents. Flocks of rare seabirds, particularly white-booby birds, have made East Island their home, filling the sky and giving the island an…

As autumn arrives, the lingering heat of summer fades, replaced by the cool, soothing touch of early morning and evening air. Gardens transform as the summer bounty wanes and fall crops are yet to ripen, leaving the once vibrant plots hushed and still. Amidst this quiet shift, one crop alone stands resilient: autumn peppers. Tall and abundant, peppers continue to flourish, hanging heavily from verdant branches. In the breeze, they sway like silent wind chimes, their red and green hues adding vibrant splashes to the fading landscape. My mother, a lifelong gardener, chose this particular plot with a simple practicality born from experience. Here, with ample sunlight, shelter from strong winds, and a convenient water source, her peppers thrived. This staple crop isn’t just a product of the season—it’s a necessity for our family’s year-round table. From early spring to late fall, the peppers grow vigorously, lending a fresh bite and piquant heat that enhances every meal, from stews and stir-fries to pickles and sauces. From Green Harvest to Simple Culinary Joys Freshly picked peppers bring an unmistakable burst of green aroma, a fragrance that signals both warmth and a raw vitality. When pounded in the traditional stone mortar, their…

Discovering a Colorful Floral Paradise As the cool breeze of autumn sweeps through Wuhan, the Wuhan Flower Expo is transformed into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, welcoming visitors to indulge in a floral feast. Spanning over a thousand acres, this floral paradise bursts with an array of blooming flowers, including cheerful yellow sulfur daisies, delicate pink dust grass, elegant white lilies, and majestic purple cosmos. The charm of the expo lies not only in its breathtaking beauty but also in the myriad activities that celebrate the essence of autumn. This year’s festival, aptly named the “Golden Autumn Flower Fire Festival,” runs from late October through early November. It promises a delightful experience for flower lovers and families alike, making it the perfect destination for an autumn outing. A Floral Wonderland Awaits The heart of the Flower Expo is adorned with vast fields of zinnia and cosmos, captivating visitors with their vibrant hues. The most stunning displays can be found near the Ferris wheel and the entrance area known as "Four Seasons Flower Sea." This year’s zinnia blossoms have flourished spectacularly, showcasing six different colors that stand tall against the backdrop of quaint blue windmills and rustic wooden cabins. For those…