Something Old Something New

2021 ISSUE 3

Something Old Something New

China’s elderly experience little rest in retirement as they move to cities to care for grandchildren, or head online to build fanbases on livestreaming apps. Big money brings high stakes to traditional pigeon-racing; a model Mars base draws tourists to the Qinghai desert; China’s porcelain capital adapts to the 21st century, and more

"Trapped in a Bind", a story from our Something Old Something New magazine.

"A Mars Camp Odyssey", a story from our Something Old Something New magazine.

From this issue

STREET TALK

How Chinese Netizens Talk Like Squabbling Pandas

Why are people talking about snatching bamboo shoots (夺笋 duó sǔn)?

SOCIETY

No Respite in Retirement for China's Migrating Elderly

As elders become their grandchildren’s primary caretakers, they face moving to the city in their old age

ENTERTAINMENT

The Moral Burden of Being a Chinese Celebrity

Why do Chinese fans expect social responsibility and absolute morality from stars?

TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Bringing the Porcelain Capital of the World into the 21st Century

How artisans in Jingdezhen are keeping alive one of China’s hottest historical commodities

LIFE

Behind the Peace Doves That Took Flight at Today’s Military Parade

Beijing’s racing pigeon enthusiasts have a long tradition of volunteering their birds for commemorative events. The 80,000 pigeons that soared over Tian’anmen Square this morning—all borrowed from local hobbyists—once again reignited discussion about the ancient sport.