ANCIENT HISTORY

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

HISTORY

Crowning Glory: China’s Floral Headdress Tradition

From the women of Xunpu to ancient emperors, the floral hairpin has been a cherished tradition among both men and women for centuries, serving as decorative ornaments and symbols of authority

HISTORY

Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations Through the Ages

Mid-Autumn Festival was only made an official holiday in 2008, but people have celebrated it for centuries

ANCIENT HISTORY

How Did Ancient Chinese Avoid Sunburn?

From veiled scholar hats to canopied backpacks, China’s obsession with sun protection is not a recent one

TRAVEL

The Forgotten Story of Ancient China’s “First Skyscraper”

Liaodi Pagoda, once the tallest structure in the world, now stands as part of the backdrop of a crowded square in a small Hebei city

ANCIENT HISTORY

How Did Ancient Chinese Wash Their Clothes?

With no washing machines or chemical detergents available, ancient Chinese had to get innovative to keep their clothes clean

ANCIENT HISTORY

Keep Books Safe With the Ancient Art of Chinese Book-Preservation

How ancient Chinese battled moths, mold, and moisture to keep their manuscripts safe

ANCIENT HISTORY

Three Romantic Tales for Qixi Festival

Discover some lesser-known love stories for Chinese Valentine’s Day

ANCIENT HISTORY

The Child Role Models of Chinese History

Child prodigies and model kids from ancient China for Children’s Day

ANCIENT HISTORY

Ancient China’s Favorite Poisons

Tales of treachery behind four toxins from Chinese history