The Context

Today, we'll talk about how five monumental Buddha statues modeled after Northern Wei emperors were created to protect Buddhism during times of persecution and ensure the dynasty's legacy endured well into the future.

Today, we continue our series on China-US climate cooperation and look at how the world's two largest emitters are including carbon capture and storage in their overall strategy to combat climate change. But will their decade-long cooperation unlock solutions or spark new controversies?

Today, we'll continue our series on Sino-US climate cooperation and introduce how that partnership has entered a new chapter as China embraces one of America's greatest contributions to ecological and biodiversity protection – the establishment of national parks.

Today, we'll talk about the Pagoda of Fogong Temple, a towering masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture, where whispers of history, craftsmanship, and spirituality intertwine, standing resilient against centuries of wind, rain, earthquakes, and wars.

Today, we continue our series on climate cooperation and hear more from climate economist Zou Ji. In this installment, he shares a hopeful outlook on how China and the US can use their unique characteristics to prevent a climate catastrophe while pursuing sustainable development.

Today, we'll talk about an ancient artifact that served as Marquis Yi of Zeng's “refrigerator.” Yes, you heard me right. It was a bronze cooling device from the Warring States period, and demonstrates early Chinese cooling technology using ice and clever design to chill food and drinks.

As we continue our series on climate cooperation, we hear from climate economist Zou Ji. Today we'll share with you his insights on how China and the US must reach consensus on the opportunities presented by low-carbon development and what healthy competition can accomplish in tackling the climate crisis.

Today we'll talk about Zhang Zhongjing, a pioneering physician of the Eastern Han Dynasty who overcame such challenges as war, famine, and personal adversity to become the “Medical Sage” of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Today, we continue our series on China-US climate cooperation with the second half of NewsChina's interview with Former US Climate Envoy Todd Stern. This time, he explains how cross-cultural friendship helped push the Paris Agreement forward, and he brings us up to date on the Sunnylands Statement that was announced in 2023.

Today, we'll tell the story of Zheng Banqiao, a legendary artist and poet known for his humor and unique life philosophy. He used his wit and creativity to inspire generations, demonstrating that a heart full of passion for life can transcend challenges and leave a lasting legacy.

Today, we continue our series on China-US climate cooperation spotlighting Former US Climate Envoy Todd Stern who discusses secret meetings that helped push the Paris Agreement over the finish line, and the necessity of US-China collaboration to overcome challenges in our global transition to a zero-carbon future.

Today, we'll talk about a newly opened exhibition that rekindled interest in the earliest geographical work to have survived to the present day in China, serving as a treasure trove of the legendary mountains, seas, natural resources, and mystical creatures of ancient China.

Today, we continue our series on China-US Climate Cooperation and discuss how the US's second withdrawal from the Paris Agreement will affect the momentum of intergovernmental cooperation between China and the US, but we'll also learn how the two countries still have potential to continue their partnership on climate issues.

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.