In the world of ancient Chinese art, Qingzhou holds a special place for its distinctive Buddhist sculptures, often described as embodying the "Qingzhou style." These timeless works will soon grace the city of Fuzhou, offering art enthusiasts and spiritual seekers a unique glimpse into the history of Buddhist art in China. From September 28 to December 27, 2024, the "Seeing Smiles: Special Exhibition of Buddhist Sculptures from Ancient Qingzhou" will be held at the Fuzhou Museum, giving visitors the opportunity to witness masterpieces that have shaped Eastern art history. Qingzhou: The Center of Buddhist Artistic Mastery During the late Han dynasty, Buddhism made its way from ancient India to China, and by the Northern and Southern Dynasties (386–589 CE), the religion had firmly established itself. As it flourished, magnificent Buddhist sites such as the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang and the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang became legendary for their artistic treasures. However, in the eastern region of China, Qingzhou, located in what is today Shandong Province, became a significant hub for Buddhist art with a unique style of its own. In 1996, an archaeological discovery at Longxing Temple in Qingzhou brought global attention to this small city. Over 400 Buddhist sculptures…

With over a billion users, Alipay has long been a household name in China, primarily known for its digital payment services. But as artificial intelligence continues to evolve, is there more room for innovation within this already multifaceted platform? Alipay's answer to this question is "Zhi Xiao Bao (支小宝)," a new AI-powered app unveiled at the 2024 Bund Conference, marking Alipay's bold leap into the AI era. The move signals Alipay's intention to integrate AI deeply into its services, but this journey has been in the making for some time. Ant Group's AI strategy was first hinted at six months ago when Chairman and CEO Jing Xiandong announced three key initiatives: "AI First," the "Alipay Dual Flywheel," and "Accelerating Globalization." However, it wasn't immediately clear how Alipay would integrate AI into its operations. Now, it's becoming evident that Alipay's approach is twofold: first, AI must be embedded into its existing services to enhance user experiences and service efficiency. Instead of focusing solely on AI as an overarching technology, Alipay is making AI central to all its operations. This internal exploration has yielded tangible results, with AI-powered tools gradually reshaping the platform. In 2024, the Alipay AI Assistant began beta testing,…

Inner Mongolia, renowned for its vast grasslands and rich nomadic traditions, offers a unique and delicious culinary heritage centered around dairy products. While most people are familiar with dishes like roast lamb and hand-held meat, today we turn our attention to something special: the dairy cuisine of the Mongolian people. In Inner Mongolia, dairy is far more than just milk; it's an art form, with a rich variety of foods made from it, each with distinct flavors and uses. Let's explore the world of Mongolian dairy beyond the stereotypes and discover the intricate world of milk-based delicacies. A Tale of Two Foods Mongolian cuisine is divided into two main categories: Ulan Ide (Red Food) and Chagan Ide (White Food). Red food refers to meat, while white food encompasses dairy products. While many are familiar with red food such as roast lamb and beef, white food holds a special place in the hearts of Mongolians. Dairy products are integral to every meal, and in Inner Mongolia, there is a seemingly endless number of ways to consume milk. Contrary to common misconceptions, not all of Inner Mongolia's dairy products are cheese. In fact, each dairy dish has a unique name, preparation method,…

In the heart of Botou City, where ancient martial traditions echo through the streets, the Botou Black Tiger Fist stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Recognized as a municipal intangible cultural heritage project since 2017, this formidable style of Shaolin (少林) martial arts continues to captivate and inspire. At the center of this tradition is Yang Quansheng (杨全胜), the fifth-generation representative inheritor of the Botou Black Tiger Fist. His demonstrations, marked by rhythmic shouts and powerful movements, embody the very essence of this fierce martial art. From afar, the sounds of precise, rhythmic shouts penetrate the air, guiding students through their rigorous training. As one approaches the Shaolin Martial Arts School in Botou, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary training session. Each punch and kick from Yang Quansheng and his students appears to channel the raw power of a tiger, striking with the force to shatter barriers and slice through obstacles. The movements—swift, powerful, and unrelenting—demonstrate the intense training and dedication required to master this ancient art. A Tradition with Deep Roots The origins of Black Tiger Fist are steeped in legend and historical significance. Although the exact creation date of this martial art…

Wudang Mountain, a place known not just for its scenic beauty but as a cradle of martial arts and spiritual culture, has long held a special place in Chinese history. Since its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1994, and the listing of Wudang martial arts as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006, its influence has only expanded. However, what makes Wudang stand out isn’t just its physical presence; it is the philosophy embedded within its martial traditions. Rooted in Daoism (道教) and deeply aligned with the natural world, Wudang martial arts has become a symbol of harmony between human and nature. The essence of Wudang martial arts is centered around the idea of “harmony.” This concept is more than just a spiritual ideal—it is a practical guide for living and practicing martial arts. Wudang's fighting philosophy is not about overpowering opponents but absorbing and neutralizing their strength. It reflects the Daoist principle of “Dao follows nature (道法自然),” where force is not imposed but redirected, creating a deep connection between the practitioner and the world around them. Over the years, Wudang martial arts have grown beyond China’s borders, gaining popularity worldwide as people seek its therapeutic benefits.…

On the evening of September 1st, young diving champion Quan Hongchan (全红婵) faced a terrifying incident in Macau. After stepping out of her hotel in casual clothes to greet a friend, she found herself surrounded by hundreds of fans. In a desperate escape attempt, she hid in a women's toilet, and there was a male fan who followed her in and took pictures of her mercilessly and frantically. Quan Hongchan cried at a loss and in fear. This alarming episode sheds light on the extreme behaviour of certain fans, raising critical questions about the rising culture of obsessive fandom, particularly in the realm of sports. As social media buzzed with sympathy for Quan and outrage toward the inappropriate actions of her fans, it became clear that this issue was not an isolated incident. Instead, it reflects a deeper societal trend of "fandom culture" seeping into areas it doesn't belong—sports being one of them. Quan Hongchan's experience is a stark reminder of how the once sacred world of athletics is increasingly entangled with fandom's obsessive traits. In recent years, the line between sports and entertainment has blurred. Social media has become a platform where athletes share personal moments, training clips, and…

Women Filmmakers Dominate the Mid-Autumn Festival Box Office The gentle glow of lanterns illuminates the streets as China celebrates its Mid-Autumn Festival, but this year, a different kind of light is shining on the country's silver screens. A remarkable shift is taking place in the Chinese film industry, one that speaks volumes about the changing dynamics of gender, creativity, and societal expectations. The Mid-Autumn Festival film season of 2024 has become a watershed moment for female filmmakers and storytellers in China. Three films, all crafted by women, have captured the top spots at the box office: "Wild Child," (野孩子) "The Determination to Leave," (出走的决心) and "Wishing You Happiness!" (祝你幸福！) These aren't just commercial successes; they represent a seismic shift in the narrative landscape of Chinese cinema. What sets these films apart is not just their female authorship, but their unflinching exploration of women's experiences in contemporary China. "The Determination to Leave," inspired by the true story of a 50-year-old woman's solo road trip, delves into the complex web of responsibilities that entangle women as daughters, sisters, wives, mothers, and grandmothers. The protagonist's journey from familial duty to personal freedom resonates deeply with audiences, particularly women, who make up over 70% of the viewership for these films.…

From Classrooms to Weddings: Hanfu's Growing Presence in Everyday Life As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, a fascinating trend is sweeping across China - the rising popularity of hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing. This resurgence is more than just a fashion statement; it's a cultural phenomenon that's reshaping how modern Chinese, especially the younger generation, connect with their heritage. In recent years, hanfu has transcended its historical confines to become a vibrant part of contemporary Chinese life. From school performances and holiday photo-ops to Chinese-style weddings, the elegant silhouettes of hanfu are increasingly visible in everyday scenarios. This trend reflects a deeper shift in Chinese society - a growing appreciation for traditional culture and a burgeoning sense of cultural confidence among the youth. The numbers tell a compelling story. Some hanfu stores report a four to five-fold increase in customers, with students making up the majority of this surge. This isn't just a local phenomenon; the popularity of hanfu, particularly styles like the horse-face skirt, has even caught international attention. Li Fangguo (李方国), owner of a hanfu experience store, offers insight into this trend. His shop boasts over 500 sets of hanfu, ranging from styles of the Wei-Jin period to the Qing dynasty.…

Nestled amidst the serene bamboo groves and traditional white-walled, blue-tiled houses of the Sichuan countryside lies Daoming (道明) Bamboo Art Village. A mere four years ago, this village, located in Longhuang Village, Daoming Town, Chongzhou, was just one of many ordinary rural settlements in western Sichuan. Today, however, it has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub known far beyond China's borders. Not only does it showcase its rich bamboo weaving heritage, but it has also made a name for itself internationally, representing Chinese rural beauty at events like the Venice Biennale. This transformation is a perfect example of the success of Chengdu's rural revitalization initiative, reflecting a broader vision of creating beautiful, livable, and ecologically balanced spaces. The success of Daoming Bamboo Art Village demonstrates how an underdeveloped rural area can reinvent itself while preserving its cultural roots. The Struggles of a Forgotten Village Before its transformation, Longhuang Village was like many other traditional villages in China—charming but underdeveloped. It was home to a few elderly residents and women, while most of the younger generation had left in search of better opportunities in urban areas. The village's main source of income was bamboo weaving, a craft with roots tracing back…

As traditional Chinese opera grapples with modern trends, it has found a way to bridge the gap between its rich heritage and the tastes of younger audiences. By incorporating innovative elements, Chinese opera is evolving, creating immersive experiences and shedding its "niche" image. The success of productions like The New Dragon Gate Inn (龙门客栈) demonstrates how this transformation is attracting new viewers and helping the art form break free from its historical confines. New Adaptations, New Fans In recent years, Chinese opera troupes have started embracing fresh ideas. Productions such as The New Dragon Gate Inn, a reimagined version of a beloved classic, have successfully integrated contemporary storytelling techniques. The incorporation of interactive elements and modern stage designs has attracted a growing audience, including those previously unfamiliar with opera. One key element of this reinvention is the concept of "immersive theater," where audiences are not merely passive observers but become part of the experience. The play’s lead actress, Xie Jianghui, fondly recalls her first performance in The New Dragon Gate Inn, noting how close she felt to the audience. “I could see their expressions up close, which made the experience nerve-wracking yet exhilarating," she says. Despite the team's uncertainty about…

The Mid-Autumn Festival is often synonymous with moon-gazing, family gatherings, and mooncakes. However, in ancient times, this festival was far more than just an evening dedicated to the moon. What if the skies were overcast, and the full moon hidden? How did the people of the past still manage to celebrate? Even in the absence of a visible moon, their festivities were rich and varied, showcasing traditions and customs beyond simply admiring the celestial body. Moonless Festivities: Celebrating Togetherness A traditional painting from the Qing Dynasty, titled The Auspicious Mid-Autumn (中秋佳瑞图), provides a glimpse into how ancient people celebrated this festival. Interestingly, the moon is not depicted in the artwork, yet the scene is filled with symbols of unity and joy. Fruits such as pomegranates, melons, and lotus roots are prominently featured, representing family harmony and prosperity. Even in the absence of the moon, people would gather to enjoy each other’s company, marking the occasion with wishes for happiness, fertility, and abundance. The essence of the festival lay not only in viewing the moon but in its deeper cultural significance, centered around family reunions and expressions of good fortune. The “Four Auspicious Trees” – the parasol tree and osmanthus tree,…

Mid-Autumn Festival is just around the corner, and one can't help but wonder: will mooncakes still feature the once-iconic Green-red julienned orange peel (青红丝)? For many, this ingredient evokes memories of traditional pastries that, in the modern era, seem to be fading into obscurity. Green-red julienned orange peel , once an essential garnish in mooncakes, is a mix of thinly sliced candied peels—green from spinach or herbs, red from red yeast rice or dyes. Its earliest documented use dates back to the Qing Dynasty, mentioned in records of Shandong's farming activities. Descriptions of traditional mooncakes included a variety of nuts, seeds, and, crucially, these vibrant candied peels. By the time of the Republic of China, regional records across the country consistently included this ingredient in local pastries. Whether it's the "sugar oil flatbread" of Shaanxi, filled with red sugar and green silk, or the "Baozi cakes" of Shandong, a crunchy sweet made from rice flour and layered with sugar and candied peels, Green-red julienned orange peel adorned all kinds of desserts. The brightly colored garnish was a symbol of festivity and sweetness, making its appearance in everything from celebratory feasts to daily treats. Going even further back in history, references…

The Surge of Herbal Drinks: A New Favorite Who could have predicted that a simple concoction of sour plum, lotus leaves, and hawthorn could become one of the hottest beverages this summer? But that's precisely what's happening as traditional herbal drinks, like sour plum soup, have taken over as the go-to drink for young Chinese consumers. The demand is so intense that Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine recently sold over a million packets of sour plum tea in just 24 hours, even crashing their servers from the overwhelming volume of orders. At the heart of this trend are health-conscious young people, especially those in their twenties and thirties, who have moved from skeptical to fully embracing the concept of "new traditional wellness." One such individual, a 29-year-old woman from Hangzhou named Qianyun (倩云), finally received her much-anticipated sour plum tea after weeks of trying. "It's a bit sour, but I hope it helps me lose weight," she shared, reflecting a broader sentiment driving this newfound enthusiasm for herbal remedies. Why Young People Are Turning to Herbal Teas Herbal tea has become more than just a drink; it’s now a lifestyle statement. This particular wellness trend focuses on age-old…

In today's fast-paced world, many traditional arts are fading into obscurity, replaced by modern innovations. Yet, some artisans remain committed to preserving their craft, ensuring that it survives for future generations. One such individual is Tang Hejia (汤何佳), a 73-year-old master of bamboo and straw weaving, who has devoted his life to the preservation and promotion of this time-honored art. In the small town of Sanzao, Guangdong, Tang Hejia's hands bring bamboo and straw to life, weaving not only practical items but also the dreams of cultural heritage. The Legacy of Bamboo and Straw Weaving in Sanzao For many, memories of childhood include simple bamboo baskets or trays, common household items in rural China. However, in Sanzao (三灶), this weaving tradition has taken on a special significance. Known as the Sanzao Bamboo and Straw Weaving Technique (三灶竹草编织技艺), this craft was officially recognized in 2015 as part of Guangdong's intangible cultural heritage. This honor not only acknowledges the artistry involved but also ensures its preservation for future generations. Bamboo and straw weaving in Sanzao is much more than a craft; it is an embodiment of the region's agricultural and marine cultures. The products, such as crab skeleton baskets, flower trays, and…

Matcha, a vibrant green powder made from finely ground tea leaves, has long been a popular flavor in drinks and desserts around the world. Its history, however, is rooted in China, where tea has been a cornerstone of the culture for millennia. Surprisingly, modern-day matcha doesn't come from China's more famous tea regions like Fujian or Zhejiang, but from a small town nestled deep in the mountains of Guizhou Province—Tongren (铜仁). Tea's journey in China began as far back as the mythological era of Shennong, when tea leaves were initially used as food or medicine. It wasn't until the Wei and Jin dynasties that the practice of grinding tea into powder began to take shape. Even then, tea was often brewed with various herbs and spices, and the tea powder itself was considered more of an additive than a central component of the drink. The true turning point came during the Tang dynasty with the arrival of Lu Yu, known as the "Tea Sage." Lu Yu's disdain for the overly complicated tea brewing methods of his time led him to develop a more refined approach to tea preparation. He wrote the Classic of Tea, the first comprehensive book on tea…

How Animated Shorts are Elevating Video Game Narratives In the ever-evolving landscape of video game development, a new trend is emerging that blends the immersive world of gaming with the artistic finesse of animation. This fusion is perfectly exemplified in the recent release of "Black Myth: Wukong," (黑神话：悟空) a highly anticipated Chinese game that has captivated players not just with its gameplay, but with its series of animated short films that punctuate the gaming experience. These animated interludes, six in total, have become a talking point among gamers and animation enthusiasts alike. Each short film, crafted in a distinct style ranging from traditional 2D hand-drawn animation to stop-motion and ink-wash painting, serves to enrich the game's narrative while showcasing the diverse talents of China's animation industry. The culmination of this artistic endeavor is "Unfinished," the hidden ending animation that has left players both satisfied and intrigued. Created through a collaboration of renowned Chinese animation studios including Wolf Smoke Studio, Fantasy Animation, Jinghuatang, and Maidong Pictures, "Unfinished" is a testament to the power of collective creativity in the animation field. The production of "Unfinished" began in May 2023, making it the last of the six animated shorts to enter production. Despite the tight…

In the race toward improving renewable energy technologies, researchers constantly seek innovative materials that can increase efficiency while reducing costs. Sometimes, nature provides the most unexpected sources of inspiration. One such example is a recent breakthrough by a research team at Westlake University, led by Professor Sun Licheng. They developed a new ion transport membrane (ITM) based on the unique properties of watermelon rind. What began as a serendipitous discovery during a late-night experiment has now evolved into a promising solution for various energy conversion systems, including fuel cells and electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO₂) reduction reactions. This development highlights how natural materials can offer fresh approaches to solving complex technological challenges. A Serendipitous Discovery The journey toward this discovery started in 2021 with a surprising observation in the lab. During a long work session, researchers Liu Qinglu and Dr. Tang Tang, members of Professor Sun's team, placed a watermelon in a freezer for a quick snack break. Days later, when they retrieved the watermelon from the freezer, they noticed that the rind had naturally separated from the fruit in the form of a thin, transparent membrane upon thawing. This seemingly trivial observation triggered a creative hypothesis: could the watermelon rind…

Qinghai's Natural Treasures: A Canvas for Ecological Civilization In the vast expanse of China's western frontier, where the sky meets the earth in a tapestry of untamed beauty, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The province of Qinghai, home to some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes, has become the stage for an ambitious experiment in conservation and sustainable development. This experiment, embodied in the creation and management of national parks, is not just reshaping the physical landscape but also redefining the relationship between humans and nature. The recent premiere of the documentary series "Qinghai: Our National Parks (Season 2)" (青海·我们的国家公园（第二季）) has brought this transformation into sharp focus, offering viewers a window into a world where ancient philosophies and cutting-edge conservation practices converge. As the cameras pan across the shimmering surface of Qinghai Lake, sweep over the rugged peaks of the Kunlun Mountains, and linger on the diverse ecosystems of the Qilian Mountains, they capture more than just stunning visuals. They document a living testament to China's commitment to ecological civilization, a concept that has moved from political rhetoric to tangible reality in these protected spaces. The documentary's approach, described by some critics as "tranquil," marks a departure from the high-drama narratives often…

Hanfu Revival: Fashion's New Frontier In the bustling heart of Xiamen, a city known for its blend of modernity and tradition, an extraordinary event has unfolded that captures the imagination of both young and old. The Xiamen International Fashion Week, traditionally a showcase of contemporary designs, took an unexpected turn this year with the inclusion of a Hanfu modeling competition that has set the fashion world abuzz. The "Celebrate Poetry and Wine Festival • Clothing of China Xiamen Station" event, held at the prestigious Wanyue City, wasn't just another stop on the fashion circuit. It represented a bold statement about the resurgence of traditional Chinese culture in the modern world. As models glided down the runway in meticulously crafted Hanfu – the traditional attire of the Han Chinese – onlookers were transported through centuries of Chinese history, witnessing the evolution of style from the dignified simplicity of the Han dynasty to the opulent grandeur of the Tang. What makes this event truly remarkable is not just the beautiful clothing on display, but the way it has captured the zeitgeist of a new generation of Chinese youth. In recent years, there has been a growing movement among young Chinese to reconnect…

A Metropolis Reborn: The Cultural Revolution of Changchun In the heart of a bustling nation, a city once known for its industrial prowess is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Changchun (长春), with its rich history and vibrant community, is reimagining its future through the lens of cinema and cultural innovation. This renaissance isn't just about art; it's a carefully orchestrated symphony of economic development, urban planning, and creative expression that's setting a new standard for cities worldwide. The catalyst for this change came in the form of the 19th Annual Changchun Film Festival, an event that has grown from a modest local celebration to a beacon for filmmakers and culture enthusiasts across the globe. But this year's festival was different. As the credits rolled on the silver screen, the real drama was unfolding behind the scenes, where city officials and industry moguls were laying the groundwork for a cultural revolution. At the heart of this transformation is the ambitious "Cinema City" project, a comprehensive plan to position Changchun as the nation's premier hub for film production and creative arts. The cornerstone of this initiative is the relocation of the legendary Spring Film Group's headquarters to the newly christened Changchun International Film City. This move isn't…