Over the centuries, the character 玩 has evolved from encapsulating an appreciation for jade to describing a state of entertainment and even a lack of commitment
Over the past three decades, Friday nights have witnessed Beijing’s Panjiayuan night market transform into a bustling hub of locals and tourists alike. Jostling for precious artifacts, they ogle a variety of art, crafts, jade, jewelry, and most notably, exquisite antiques or 古玩 (gǔwán), which together showcase the unique charm of the centuries-old capital.
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玩: The Character That Tempts Both Joy and Danger is a story from our issue, “New Game.” To read the entire issue, become a subscriber and receive the full magazine.
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