Chinese culture

Going to a Funeral in China? Try to Keep Your Clothes On, Says Ministry of Culture

Going to a Funeral in China? Try to Keep Your Clothes On, Says Ministry of Culture

The Ministry of Culture last month announced a crackdown on “obscene, pornographic and vulgar performances” at funerals and weddings after stories of wild send-offs involving naked women groping mourners and pole dancing at rural gatherings made headlines.

Double Ninth Day: Spend Today in the Mountains or With Your Elders (Or Both)

Double Ninth Day: Spend Today in the Mountains or With Your Elders (Or Both)

In Chinese numerology, the number nine is associated with the principal of Yang, the masculine complement of Yin in the Yin/Yang system. Today is the ninth day of the ninth month in the Lunar-Solar calendar (hence the name “Double Yang/Double Brightness”). While Yang is generally considered a good thing, too much of anything can throw a system out of balance. When systems are out of balance, as the 84-year-old auntie who lives on your hutong will remind you every day this winter, people get sick.

A Teacher's Advice to His Students for Staying Safe During Spring Festival

A Teacher's Advice to His Students for Staying Safe During Spring Festival

As a teacher at a study abroad program here in Beijing, I feel it's my duty not only to introduce the wonders of Chinese civilization to impressionable young minds from America but also to keep them safe. Each year, it is customary for me to prepare a short talk to acquaint the students with the Spring Festival. Happy New Year to all and stay safe.

Don't Be a Fool, Eat Your Gruel: The Story Behind Eating Porridge for Laba Festival

Don't Be a Fool, Eat Your Gruel: The Story Behind Eating Porridge for Laba Festival

Some people will do anything for a free meal, even if that means waiting in line outside in Beijing in the middle of January for nothing more than a bowl of thin 粥 zhōu, or porridge.