The Context

Today, we'll talk about Weifang's kites which symbolize cultural heritage and craftsmanship, attracting global enthusiasts to its annual International Kite Festival, where traditional techniques and modern innovations continue to soar.

On today's podcast, we hear from China's Special Envoy for Climate Change, Liu Zhenmin, who expresses his optimism about the future of international cooperation on climate governance, particularly between China and the US.

Today, we'll talk about the discovery of Qingzhou's buried Buddhist sculptures at Longxing Temple. Famous for their serenely smiling expressions, these statues unveil a thousand-year legacy of artistic mastery, religious devotion, and cultural preservation.

Today, in part two of our interview with Li Gao, China's Vice Minister of Ecology and Environment, we'll talk about the risks and benefits of Sino-US cooperation and the possible role China will play to combat climate change. 

Today, we'll talk about the Yongle Palace which stands as a testament to ancient artistic mastery and religious devotion, while its mid-20th-century relocation highlights China's remarkable efforts in cultural heritage preservation.

Today, as we continue with our Climate Cooperation series, we'll hear from China's Vice Minister of Ecology and Environment who says China will fulfill its international responsibilities on climate issues not only because it's the right thing to do, but also because it aligns with China's pursuit of high-quality development. 

Today, we'll talk about the Hanging Temple, a remarkable architectural marvel built into a cliff in Shanxi Province more than 1,500 years ago that embodies a unique blend of religious, cultural, and engineering significance, earning global recognition for its daring design and historical legacy.

Today, we continue our series on China-US Climate Cooperation with the second of a two-part episode on the history of climate deals between China and the US. And we'll lead off with some positive breakthroughs that occurred over the past dozen years. 

Today, we'll talk about a 2,000-year-old gilt-bronze incense burner known as the Boshan Censer from the Western Han Dynasty, which is currently bridging ancient history with contemporary storytelling due to its connection to the recent blockbuster film Nezha 2.

Today, we continue our series on China-US Climate Cooperation with the first of a two-part episode on the history of climate deals between China and the US. And although these deals have previously weathered political storms, the question is, can they withstand the challenges of the future?

Today, we'll talk about the recent discovery in Fujian, China of the oldest confirmed Jurassic bird fossil that pushes the timeline of avian evolution further back by 20 million years, providing new insights into the transition from dinosaurs to birds.

As we continue our Friday series on China-US Climate Cooperation, today, we will introduce pioneers in the field of climate science going back to the dawn of the Industrial Revolution and counting up the generations right up till today. 

Today, we'll talk about Mazu, the costal protector and Chinese goddess of the sea who has become a global icon of Chinese heritage, linking millions worldwide through faith, commemoration, and maritime culture. 

As we continue our series on China-US climate cooperation, we issue something of a warning, pointing out that we should see ourselves not as the victims of some future climate catastrophe, but rather we should admit that unbridled exploitation of the planet's resources has made us the harbingers of change.

Just over 1,000 years ago, Sichuan in southwest China issued the world's first officially backed paper money. Today, we'll talk about what local conditions spurred this financial revolution, and how traders were able to cash in on the innovation.

Today, we continue our series on China-US climate cooperation and we do so with a bang, pointing out that when it comes to the next extinction-level event on our fragile planet, we, that is, humans, are the meteor – unless we can collectively muster the political will to change course.

Today, we'll talk about Fujian tulou, an iconic Hakka architectural marvel, which is globally recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embodying a blend of historical resilience and cultural preservation.

Today, we're launching our new series of podcasts on China-US Climate Cooperation. Our 20-episode series will feature climatology experts and policy makers from both countries and cover everything from carbon dioxide capture facilities to the establishment of national parks. 

Today, we'll talk about the Qing Dynasty's royal ice games which played an important role in military training and cultural celebration, generating lasting influence on China's winter sports heritage.

Today, we'll continue our discussion of Lin Zexu, whose legacy is defined by his advocacy for modernization and his pivotal role as an early champion of national sovereignty and reform in 19th-century China. 

In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll talk about Lin Zexu, a visionary reformer and steadfast opponent of the opium trade, who played a pivotal role in defending China's sovereignty and shaping its policies through his unwavering commitment to public health and national defense.

Today, we'll continue to talk about Sun Yat-sen University, which has been at the forefront of higher education in China, playing a crucial role in the country's academic development while nurturing leaders who would go on to shape the country's history.

In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll talk about Sun Yat-sen University, which stands as a testament to the seamless integration of traditional Chinese values and modern educational reforms, shaping the intellectual landscape of China through its commitment to academic excellence and cultural innovation.

Today, we'll talk about Lin Yutang, a celebrated writer and lexicographer, who masterfully bridged Eastern and Western cultures through his literary works and his pioneering efforts in compiling a Chinese-English dictionary, leaving an enduring legacy as both a literary figure and a cultural ambassador.

Today, we'll talk about Lu You, a renowned poet of the Southern Song Dynasty, who devoted his life to the restoration of China's northern territories, channeling his unfulfilled ambitions into over 9,000 poems that express his deep patriotism and sorrow.

Today, we'll talk about the pioneering geographer Xu Xiake whose story chronicles his extraordinary 17th-century expeditions across China, where his detailed maps and observations greatly contributed to the country's geographical knowledge while revealing many of its hidden natural wonders.

Today, we'll talk about the Fuxi and Nuwa paintings, popular in the burial customs of the ancient kingdom of Gaochang, which reflect the deep cultural and symbolic significance of these two mythological figures in Chinese history, representing creation, harmony, and the balance of Yin and Yang.

Today, we'll talk about the Spring Festival, which has been inscribed onto UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its rich cultural traditions, social significance, and contribution to family values.

Today, we'll talk about the Admonitions of the Instructress to the Court Ladies, a story that traces its journey from an imperial harem teaching tool to a priceless cultural treasure, surviving looting, political turmoil, and time, ultimately finding its place in the British Museum where it continues to captivate global audiences.

Today, we'll talk about Zen Master Yinyuan, a prominent 17th-century Chinese monk, who has profoundly influenced Japan's Edo-era culture, religion, and society by introducing Obaku Zen Buddhism, fostering enduring cultural exchange between China and Japan.

Today, we'll talk about a Ming Dynasty treasure that has been re-imagined as a series of creative cultural products, including a popular refrigerator magnet. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design, a phoenix coronet has captivated consumers and brought the rich history of the crown closer to the public.

Today, we'll talk about the growing popularity of Chinese museums which have attracted more visitors through innovative use of technology and providing experiences, causing some to question whether they are losing their educational purpose.  

Today, we'll introduce a somewhat overlooked oasis in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Kuqa, which was located in the ancient state of Qiuci, was an important stop along the Silk Road, and now residents there are revitalizing its outstanding legacy.

Today, we'll celebrate the 170th anniversary of the birth of Yan Fu, a man who overcame great difficulties early in life and forged on to have a profound impact on modern Chinese thought at the turn of the last century, ultimately becoming known as the Architect of China's Modern Enlightenment. 

Today, we'll talk about time-honored brand Pien Tze Huang, which is expanding the global presence of TCM by exporting its flagship product to international markets, while also promoting Chinese medical culture on a global scale.

Today, we'll talk about Wang Tao, a pioneering Chinese journalist and reformist, who founded the Universal Circulating Herald in 1874, marking the first major Chinese-led newspaper advocating modernization and political reform. His exposure to Western ideas profoundly shaped his journalism, leaving a lasting impact on China's media landscape and reform movements.

Today, we'll talk about the Weihsien Concentration Camp, where over 2,000 Allied civilian prisoners were interned by Japanese forces during World War II. The site now stands as a vital memorial to the anti-fascist war.

Today, we'll continue to talk about Wu Yifang's unwavering commitment to restoring Ginling College as she successfully united alumni to support her vision. And her representation of China at the United Nations highlighted her role as a voice for peace and a bridge between cultures.

In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll talk about stories of Wu Yifang who emerged as a pioneering figure in women's education. Her dedication to advancing women's roles in society left an indelible mark on both education and global diplomacy.

Today, we're going to talk about a 3000-year-old bronze wine vessel in the shape of a phoenix that has quite literally risen from the ashes of history to become not only the image ambassador for its native province but also a tasty summertime treat. 

Today, we'll introduce a mysterious artifact that may offer insights into ancient cross-cultural exchanges, potentially linking Sanxingdui with far-flung civilizations like Egypt or Mesopotamia. Its unique design and possible connections to sun worship raise intriguing questions about its origins and influence.

Today, we'll continue to talk about Wu Zetian. Despite achieving the pinnacle of power, her later years were marked by isolation and introspection, as she grappled with the sacrifices made for her reign. 

In this first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll talk about Wu Zetian's ascent from a lowly concubine to the only female emperor in Chinese history. Her remarkable ambition and strategic acumen culminated in her establishment of a new dynasty.

Today, we'll introduce a set of lacquer screens from the turbulent Northern Wei Dynasty of more than 1,500 years ago. Due to their exquisite craftsmanship and similarity to early Chinese silk paintings, they were some of the first cultural relics prohibited from going abroad for exhibition.

Today, we'll delve further into how innovations adopted in recent years by museums in Shanxi Province are enhancing the visitor experience, blending history with interactive exploration.

In this first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll be talking about the innovative Taiyuan Northern Qi Dynasty Mural Museum, which has embraced modern technologies including VR and 3D displays to bring its ancient murals to life. 

Today, we'll delve further into the developments regarding the repatriation of looted cultural relics to their respective countries of origin. The ethical considerations surrounding collection practices are gaining prominence, with experts cautioning that essential historical knowledge is at risk of being lost.

In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll talk about how almost 30 years after a statue containing the 1,000-year-old mummified remains of a Buddhist master was stolen and sold overseas, the people of a small village in Southeast China are still fighting for its return.

Today, we'll talk about Lee Wai-tong, a pioneering figure in Chinese football who achieved global recognition through his exceptional playing and coaching career. His remarkable journey transformed the perception of Chinese football, leaving a lasting legacy both domestically and internationally.

Today, we'll continue to talk about the endeavors of underwater archaeologists as they work to salvage the remnants of the Beiyang Fleet warships that were lost in the world's first large-scale naval battle between steam-powered armored fleets, known as the Battle of the Yellow Sea.

In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we'll delve into the courageous resistance displayed by the Beiyang Fleet warships against the Japanese Combined Fleet in the Battle of the Yellow Sea during the First Sino-Japanese War in 1894.