Hello TWOC readers!

Halloween is upon us, but the mood hasn’t been festive. Reports out of Shanghai are that parties and costumes have been actively discouraged, while in Beijing, several venues previously known for their Halloween bashes have been bashful about promoting their weekend events.

But at the same time, we get scenes like these from the streets of Hangzhou:

Just a reminder that the Halloween spirit is still alive. To further get you in the mood, check out these stories from our archives:

Who’s Afraid of the Chinese Ghostbuster?
Supernatural Chinese Beings Perfect for Halloween
Urban Legends with Chinese Characteristics

Here are some more recent articles we published:

A Woman's Quest to End Human Trafficking

Yang Niuhua, who was kidnapped when she was 5 years old, is on a mission to help victims unite with their lost families. But first, she seeks justice against her own abductor in a trial that has gripp

From Weapon to Costume Piece: The Formidable Hairpins of Fuzhou

With a 1,600-year history, Fuzhou’s “tri-hairpin” has evolved from weapon to accessory to nearly forgotten artifact. But now, thanks to a small group of designers, it’s back in vogue. Read more

Mockery, Sarcasm, and Roasting in Ancient China

Ancient scholars and ministers used all forms of scathing rhetoric to refute, persuade, and influence—sometimes to disastrous ends. Read more

What We’re Listening To

Creative Communities in Suburban China

China’s suburbs, previously considered a zone for free-flowing creativity, are facing fresh challenges amid rising tourism, gentrification, and increasing rents. Here’s the latest from Aladin Farré’s Middle Earth Podcast.

Chinese You Need

In a tongue-in-cheek attempt to gain control over their lives—or a means of excusing bad habits—China’s netizens are role-playing as emperors and servants. These are the new emperors of the Chinese internet.