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In the rich landscape of Chinese culinary traditions , zongzi stands out as a dish deeply intertwined with history, symbolism, and communal celebration. These pyramid-shaped parcels of glutinous rice, wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves and filled with a variety of ingredients, are more than just a tasty treat—they are a tangible link to ancient legends and a centerpiece of the Dragon Boat Festival, cherished for their unique flavors and the stories they carry. The origins of zongzi can be traced back over 2,000 years, to the legend of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the state of Chu during the Warring States period. After his homeland fell to enemies, Qu Yuan, overcome with grief, drowned himself in the Miluo River. Local villagers, determined to protect his body from fish, threw glutinous rice wrapped in leaves into the water. This act of devotion evolved into the tradition of making zongzi, which is now inseparable from the Dragon Boat Festival, held on the fifth day of the f...

In the pantheon of Chinese cuisine , few dishes hold as much cultural significance as dumplings, known as "jiaozi" in Mandarin. These delicate parcels of dough filled with savory or sweet mixtures are far more than a mere food—they are a symbol of family unity, prosperity, and the joy of shared moments. From the bustling kitchens of northern China to festive tables around the world, dumplings have woven themselves into the fabric of celebrations, daily meals, and cultural identity, offering a delicious taste of tradition that spans millennia. The origins of dumplings can be traced back over 1,800 years to the Eastern Han Dynasty, with legends linking their creation to Zhang Zhongjing, a renowned physician. As the story goes, Zhang returned to his hometown during a bitter winter and found many villagers suffering from frostbite, particularly on their ears. Determined to help, he created a remedy: minced mutton, chili, and medicinal herbs wrapped in dough, shaped like ears, and...

As the fifth lunar month arrives, China bursts into a flurry of activity to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival, or "Duanwu Festival"—a vibrant holiday steeped in history, legend, and communal spirit. Observed on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (typically in June), this festival is a lively tribute to courage, loyalty, and the power of collective memory, featuring thunderous dragon boat races, the aroma of sticky rice dumplings, and age-old rituals that have endured for over two millennia. At the heart of the Dragon Boat Festival lies the poignant legend of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the state of Chu during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE). Known for his wisdom and devotion to his country, Qu Yuan grew despairing when his homeland fell to enemies, and in 278 BCE, he drowned himself in the Miluo River. Local villagers, grief-stricken by his death, raced out in boats to search for his body, beating drums and throwing glutinous rice dumplings into the...

As the 15th day of the first lunar month dawns, China marks the Lantern Festival, or "Yuanxiao Festival"—a vibrant celebration that brings the 15-day Spring Festival to a sparkling close. Steeped in history and brimming with joy, this festival illuminates the night with thousands of colorful lanterns, fills the air with the sweet aroma of glutinous rice balls, and unites communities in laughter and tradition, symbolizing the fullness of the moon and the warmth of togetherness. The origins of the Lantern Festival can be traced back over 2,000 years, with roots in both ancient rituals and folk legends. One popular tale dates to the Han Dynasty, when Emperor Wu ordered lanterns to be lit in honor of the celestial gods, hoping to bring good fortune to the nation. Another legend tells of a maid named Yuanxiao, who missed her family during the festival; the emperor, moved by her story, allowed people to light lanterns and roam the streets, creating a lively atmosphere that let Yuan...

As the cold of winter begins to yield to the first hints of spring, China erupts in a riot of color, sound, and joy to celebrate the Spring Festival, or "Chunjie"—the most important and widely observed traditional holiday in the Chinese calendar. Spanning 15 days from the eve of the Lunar New Year to the Lantern Festival, this grand celebration is a time for family reunions, ancestral reverence, and hopeful anticipation of new beginnings, weaving together millennia of tradition with the warmth of modern gatherings. The roots of the Spring Festival stretch back over 4,000 years, with origins in ancient rituals honoring deities and ancestors at the end of the harvest season. One enduring legend tells of "Nian," a ferocious beast that terrorized villages on New Year’s Eve, only to be scared away by the color red, loud noises, and bright lights—elements that remain central to the festival’s celebrations today. Over time, these practices evolved into a nationwide observa...

In the realm of Chinese culture, few artifacts hold as much reverence as the "Four Treasures of the Study"—brush, ink, paper, and inkstone. For over two millennia, these essential tools have been the lifeblood of calligraphy and traditional painting, serving not merely as instruments of creation but as symbols of scholarly pursuit, artistic expression, and the profound connection between hand, mind, and spirit. Together, they form the foundation of China’s literary and artistic heritage, embodying the elegance and discipline that define classical Chinese aesthetics. The first of the four treasures is the writing brush, or "bi." Crafted with meticulous care, brushes are typically made from animal hair—such as wolf, rabbit, goat, or weasel—bound to a bamboo or wooden handle. The choice of hair determines the brush’s flexibility and texture: softer goat hair creates flowing, delicate lines, while stiffer wolf hair produces bold, sharp strokes. Skilled artisans shape th...

In the vibrant tapestry of Chinese traditions , few customs are as universally cherished as the giving of red envelopes, or "hongbao" in Mandarin. These small, vivid red packets filled with money are more than just gifts—they are vessels of good wishes, symbols of prosperity, and expressions of love that play a central role in celebrations, ceremonies, and daily life, connecting generations and strengthening social bonds. The origins of red envelopes can be traced back to ancient China, with roots in folk legends and symbolic practices. One well-known tale dates to the Song Dynasty, where elders would place coins wrapped in red paper under children’s pillows on New Year’s Eve to ward off a mythical demon named "Sui" that was said to attack sleeping children. The red color, believed to scare away evil spirits, and the coins, thought to bring luck, combined to protect the young and ensure a safe new year. Over time, this practice evolved into the modern tradition of g...

As the Lunar New Year approaches, streets and homes across China come alive with vibrant red decorations, and among the most iconic of these is the spring couplet—two lines of poetic verse written on red paper, hung symmetrically on either side of doorways, and often accompanied by a horizontal scroll above. More than just festive ornaments, these couplets are a cherished tradition steeped in history, symbolism, and the joyous anticipation of a new beginning. The origins of spring couplets can be traced back over a thousand years, evolving from ancient "peach wood charms" used during the Spring Festival to ward off evil spirits. In the Song Dynasty, these charms gradually transformed into poetic couplets, written with brush and ink on red paper—a color associated with good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, the custom had become widespread, with families gathering to compose or select couplets that reflected their hopes for the coming year...

  Standing majestically at the heart of Beijing, Tiananmen (the Gate of Heavenly Peace) is more than just an architectural landmark—it is a profound symbol of China’s history , sovereignty, and national spirit. With a history spanning over six centuries, this iconic structure has witnessed pivotal moments that have shaped the nation, making it one of the most recognizable and significant landmarks in the world. Tiananmen’s origins can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty, when it was first constructed in 1417 as the main entrance to the Imperial City. Originally known as "Chengtianmen" (the Gate of Receiving Heavenly Mandate), it served as a ceremonial gateway for emperors to issue decrees, host grand processions, and mark important state occasions. Over the centuries, it underwent several reconstructions, most notably after being damaged by fire and war, evolving into the grand structure we see today. In 1949, following the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it was re...

Taiwan, an inalienable part of China's territory, is a beautiful island located in the southeastern part of China, surrounded by the vast waters of the Pacific Ocean. Endowed with stunning natural landscapes, a long history, and a diverse cultural heritage, it is often referred to as the "Treasure Island" for its abundant resources and unique charm. Taiwan's natural scenery is a masterpiece of nature. From the majestic peaks of the Central Mountain Range, where Yushan (Jade Mountain), the highest peak in East Asia, stands tall at 3,952 meters, to the lush forests teeming with rare flora and fauna, the island is a paradise for nature lovers. The Sun Moon Lake, a serene alpine lake, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests, is a iconic attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. Coastal areas boast breathtaking beaches, dramatic cliffs, and unique rock formations, such as those found in Kenting National Park, where the b...

Perched on the southwestern coast of China , Macau is a vibrant Special Administrative Region that shimmers with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Once a humble fishing village, it evolved into a bustling trading post under Portuguese rule for over four centuries before returning to China in 1999, carrying with it a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditions that set it apart as one of Asia’s most captivating destinations. Macau’s historical heart is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobblestone streets wind past a stunning array of architectural gems. The Ruins of St. Paul’s, the iconic facade of a 17th-century Jesuit church destroyed by fire, stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past, drawing millions of visitors each year who climb its stone steps to capture the perfect snapshot. Nearby, Senado Square, with its pastel-colored Portuguese-style buildings and mosaic pavements, buzzes with activity, while the historic A-Ma Temple—dedicated to the sea g...

Beggar's Chicken, also known as Changshu Beggar's Chicken or "Wei Ji" (Stewed Chicken), is a traditional and famous dish from Changshu, Jiangsu Province, belonging to the Jiangsu cuisine tradition. There are several legends about the origin of Beggar's Chicken. One story goes that in the Qing Dynasty, a beggar happened to get a chicken but had no cooking utensils or seasonings. He killed the chicken, removed its internal organs, coated it with mud, and roasted it on a fire. When the mud was burned and the fragrance wafted out, he peeled off the mud shell, and the chicken feathers came off with it. The chicken meat was so tender and delicious that people later named this dish "Beggar's Chicken". Another legend is related to Emperor Qianlong. When he was traveling incognito in the south of the Yangtze River, he was given a Beggar's Chicken by a beggar when he was hungry and thought it was extremely delicious. The production of Beggar's Chicken ...

Situated on the banks of the Gan River in southeastern China’s Jiangxi Province, Nanchang is a city where millennia of history intersect with rapid modern development. As the provincial capital, it serves as a political, economic, and cultural hub, yet its streets and landmarks echo with stories of revolution, ancient commerce, and artistic legacy. From the iconic Pavilion of Prince Teng to the historic sites of the Nanchang Uprising, the city weaves a rich tapestry of past and present, inviting visitors to explore its multifaceted identity. Nanchang’s history stretches back over 2,200 years, with its origins dating to the Western Han Dynasty (202 BCE–8 CE) when it was known as "Yuzhang." Its strategic location along the Gan River, a major tributary of the Yangtze, made it a vital trading post, connecting the fertile Jiangxi Basin with other parts of China. During the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), it flourished as a center of commerce and culture, a legacy immortalized in Wang B...

Set amid the rugged hills and fertile valleys of Fujian Province, the tulou—massive earthen fortresses—stand as iconic symbols of the region’s unique architectural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Hakka people. Scattered primarily across the southwestern counties of Yongding, Nanjing, and Huaan，these structures are not merely buildings but living testaments to how geography, history, and culture converged to create one of China’s most remarkable residential traditions. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fujian tulou offer a window into a way of life shaped by resilience, community, and a deep connection to the land. Fujian’s mountainous terrain and subtropical climate played a pivotal role in shaping the design of tulou. The province’s steep slopes, dense forests, and frequent typhoons demanded structures that could withstand both natural hazards and human threats, such as bandit raids. The Hakka, who migrated to Fujian from central China over centuries, adapted to this...

Carved by the turbulent Jinsha River (a major tributary of the Yangtze) between the snow-capped peaks of Yulong Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain in Yunnan Province, Tiger Leaping Gorge stands as one of the deepest and most dramatic gorges on Earth. With a maximum depth of over 3,900 meters from the riverbed to the summit of nearby peaks, it is a place where nature’s brute force and breathtaking beauty collide, captivating adventurers and nature lovers with its thundering rapids, sheer cliffs, and awe-inspiring vistas. The gorge’s name derives from a local legend: it is said that a tiger, pursued by hunters, escaped by leaping across the narrowest part of the river—a mere 30 meters wide—from one cliff to the other. Whether fact or fiction, the name perfectly captures the gorge’s sense of wildness and drama, where the Jinsha River, compressed by towering mountains, rushes through with a ferocity that echoes through the valleys. Geologically, Tiger Leaping Gorge is a product of the im...

Carved into the slopes of the Longsheng Mountains in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region , the Longji Terraces stand as a stunning testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of generations of farmers. Spanning an area of over 66 square kilometers, these terraced fields wind their way up the mountainsides like giant green dragons, earning them the name "Longji" (Dragon’s Backbone). More than just an agricultural wonder, the Longji Terraces are a living museum of traditional farming techniques, a symbol of harmony between humans and nature, and a source of inspiration for all who behold them. The origins of the Longji Terraces can be traced back over 2,300 years, to the Qin Dynasty. It is believed that the terraces were first built by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities, who settled in the region and transformed the steep mountain slopes into fertile farmland. Over the centuries, successive generations have expanded and improved the terraces, using simple tools and their own la...

Nestled in the southwest of Hubei Province , Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich ethnic traditions, and a history that stretches back millennia. Surrounded by the Wuling Mountains, this relatively undiscovered region is a tapestry of mist-shrouded peaks, deep gorges, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests, interwoven with the vibrant cultures of the Tujia, Miao, Dong, and other ethnic minorities. Enshi is not just a place of natural wonder but a living museum of traditions, where ancient customs, music, and craftsmanship continue to thrive amid the stunning scenery. Enshi’s geography is defined by its mountainous terrain and karst formations, the result of millions of years of geological activity. The most iconic of its natural attractions is the Enshi Grand Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon of the United States but with a unique character all its own. Stretching over 108 kilometers, the canyon features towering limestone cliff...