The Mid-Autumn Festival is filled with mooncakes and legends—but behind its glowing lanterns lie centuries of stories about love, rebellion, poetry, and immortality. From the moon goddess Chang’e to the Jade Rabbit pounding herbs for the elixir of life, here are seven fascinating tales that reveal the cultural heart of this beloved festival.
The Chinese lunisolar calendar and its 24 solar terms, often called the “24 seasons,” blend myth, science, and tradition. From ancient astronomy to modern life, these seasonal markers continue to guide agriculture, festivals, and cultural practices across East Asia. Explore their origins, spread, and enduring relevance in today’s world.
From Hung Gar’s deep stances to the Great Wall-inspired Ba Sing Se, Earthbending in Avatar: The Last Airbender is rooted in real martial arts and rich cultural history. Explore the philosophies, legends, and warriors that make the Earth Kingdom a grounded yet dynamic force in the Avatar world, and uncover the deep ties between fantasy and reality.
What makes airbending so graceful and spiritual? This deep dive uncovers the real martial arts, monks, and philosophies behind Avatar: The Last Airbender's Air Nomads — from Baguazhang to Buddhism, Shaolin Temple to Daoist sages.
On China’s sacred Mount Emei, Buddhist nuns are preserving a centuries-old martial tradition. Trained in Emei-style Kung Fu, these warrior women balance spiritual discipline with remarkable martial skill. Discover how they compare to Shaolin monks, how they train, and why their legacy still matters today.
Spring in China offers more than just blossoms—it's a season of beauty, renewal, and celebration. At Beijing’s 36th Cherry Blossom Festival, visitors are treated to breathtaking flower displays, vibrant cultural shows, and unforgettable experiences under the petals. From aerial dances to Hanfu strolls, spring comes alive in color and tradition.
China's ethnic minority fighters—Yi, Tibetan, Kazakh, Mongol, and others—are reshaping the world of MMA with a powerful blend of traditional wrestling, rural grit, and deep cultural pride. This article explores their origins, fighting styles, and the cultural forces driving their success in modern combat sports.
The Year of the Snake 2025 brings a time of transformation, wisdom, and strategic growth. Influenced by the Yin-Wood element, this year encourages self-improvement, adaptability, and long-term planning. Discover the symbolism, cultural significance, and how to harness the energy of the Wood Snake for success in the year ahead.
Discover how Christmas is celebrated in China, a unique blend of global influences and local traditions. From dazzling urban displays and the exchange of festive apples to meaningful religious services and winter tourism hotspots, explore the evolving significance of this holiday across the country.
The allure of Shaolin kung fu, with its rich history, discipline, and philosophical depth, draws many from around the world who dream of becoming a Shaolin monk. However, this dream is often shaped by Western media portrayals, which don’t always reflect the realities of life as a monk at the Shaolin Temple. In this article, we’ll explore the process of becoming a Shaolin monk, clarify misconceptions, and explain how foreigners might pursue this path.