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Peculiar Devices: A History of Robotic Fantasies in Ancient China
From pedestrian wheelbarrows imbued with mystical powers to mechanical beings that poured wine for Tang dynasty courtiers, ancient China birthed mechanical wonders that blurred the line between craft and myth
The Dreams of Tang Xianzu, the “Shakespeare of the East”
A contemporary of William Shakespeare, Ming dynasty playwright Tang Xianzu left a literary legacy built on dreams and love
170 Years of China and the World Expo | Photo Story
With the 2025 World Expo underway, take a look back at China’s long-standing presence and key milestones at the global fair
Rebellion, Corruption, and the Lychee: The History of Chinese Couriers
Long before express delivery became an everyday essential, ancient China had built an intricate courier system, though its bureaucracy also bred corruption and chaos
History of Ballroom Dancing in China
What was once a banned pastime in the 1980s has transformed into a nationwide cultural movement—filled with joy, competition, and camaraderie
Ne Zha: From Myth to Cultural Icon
Ne Zha transcended his origins as a Buddhist deity to emerge as a rebellious, anti-patriarchal hero in popular culture
Scent Across Time: How Traditional Fragrances Quiet the Clamor of Modern Life
From ancient scholars to modern youth, timeless scents like sandalwood and jasmine continue to captivate young Chinese, offering solace in an increasingly busy world
Greeting the New Year: The (Un)changing Customs of Chinese New Year Wishes
From carving on wood to “flying cards” in red envelopes, how people expressed their New Year’s greeting, or “bainian” in ancient China
Justice for Snakes: The Real Story of the Most Misunderstood Zodiac Animal
How the snake evolved from a revered symbol of worship to a figure of fear and evil in ancient Chinese culture
Written in the Stars: Astrological Signs in Ancient China
China’s adherence to the 12-year zodiac cycle is known around the world. What might be more surprising is that the West’s astrological signs have also existed in the country, possibly from the very beginning.
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