A Thousand Whys: Recent Episodes
China Plus
Why has the snake, often feared, been revered in Chinese culture and become one of the 12 zodiac animals? How is it portrayed in artifacts, and what does it symbolize in China compared to other cultures? In this episode, we explore the serpent's evolving meanings in Chinese civilization.
Special Thanks: Liu Yanfeng
Like the finest wines, the best inspiration for poetry is brewed and vivified, if served in the right vessel. In this episode, we present a phoenix-headed tricolor ceramic wine vessel from the Tang Dynasty, some 1200 years ago. In what ways did it influence the development of Chinese poetry at the height of its glory?
How did the water dropper help artists enter the right creative mindset for traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting using the color of black only? In this episode, we present the "Yandi" from the Yuan Dynasty about 900 years ago. How did Chinese green ware gain world recognition between the mid-10th and 17th centuries?
What role did jade play in ancient Chinese rituals? In this episode, we delve into an artifact that embodied authority and order in the Yangtze River Delta 5000 years ago and explore its connection to urban planning and state governance in early Chinese society.
Special Thanks:
Zhejiang Provincial Museum
Wu Sihe
Liu Yanfeng
What did owls symbolize 3,000 years ago in China? How were they linked to an ancient woman known as the goddess of war and a female politician of vision at that time? In this episode, we uncover the story of Queen Fu Hao, from the Shang Dynasty, through the bronze owl vessels found in her tomb.
Special Thanks:
Henan Museum
Wang Zichen
Liu Yanfeng
Why did the upper-classes of the Hexi Corridor about 1800 years ago enjoy an affluent lifestyle while the rest of China suffered from political upheaval? In this episode, we present tomb paintings from this era to get a glimpse of their delicacies and entertainment at lavish banquets, and the way food and drink were prepared and served.
Why did a team of master artisans take a decade to make a bridal sedan chair? In this episode, we'll delve into the story of the Wan Gong Sedan Chair from the Qing Dynasty about 200 years ago, a dazzling moving palace like the one for Britain's Princess of Wales and a remarkable example of craftsmanship and cultural tradition.
What did the earliest Chinese instruments look and sound like? In this episode, we travel back nearly 9,000 years to discover the Jiahu crane bone flute, to explore its role in material and spiritual life in primitive tribes, and hear the echoes of early Chinese civilization.
Artifacts are bridges to the past, revealing how we ever lived, loved, and dreamed. Over the coming weeks, join us for "Ancient Relics and Their Stories". Together, we’ll uncover the objects that defined our history, shaped our present, and continue to inspire our future.
Special Thanks: Liu Yanfeng
The chrysanthemum flower is one of China's top ten most popular flowers, boasting a cultivation history of over 3,000 years. These flowers not only add vibrant colors to the autumn season but are also deeply tied to the Double Ninth Festival. In this episode, we'll explore the connection between chrysanthemum and this festival, as well as its special significance in Chinese culture.
As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, many places in China will be delighted with the enchanting scent of golden osmanthus. In this episode of "A Thousand Whys," we delve into the deep-rooted affection that Chinese people have for this flower and explore the rich symbolism it carries in Chinese culture.
A bull, a bronze tripod, a city gate latch—nothing was too heavy to lift! The awe for extraordinary strength dates back centuries. Curious about how ancient people in China practiced weightlifting? Tune in to find out!
(00:47) Travel back in time with Pierre de Coubertin to the scene of Unbeatable Strongman Challenge.
(03:30) Zhu Xianlin, a coach who has trained numerous national-level weightlifting athletes, explains the benefits of weightlifting.
(04:44) Explore weightlifting in the modern Olympics.
Have you ever thought about learning some wrestling movements and postures? Follow Pierre de Coubertin to travel back in time to an ancient Chinese wrestling arena. Discover the rich cultural significance and unique techniques that set Chinese wrestling apart from other styles across the globe.
(00:21) Step back in time with Monsieur de Coubertin as he experiences the vibrant world of traditional Chinese wrestling.
(04:04) Gain insights from a former coach of China's national wrestling team as he sheds light on the deep-rooted traditions of Chinese wrestling.
(05:39) Explore wrestling in the modern Olympics.
Imagine a diving competition where athletes leap not from a springboard on the ground, but from a swing that's suspended on a boat! In this episode, follow Pierre de Coubertin, father of the modern Olympics, on an exhilarating journey as he explores this unique ancient Chinese sport. Discover its fascinating techniques and see how its spirit resonates with sports in the modern era!
(00:52) A fun micro-radio drama of a special diving match.
(03:42) How ancient books describe water swing diving.
(04:25) Interview with Professor Cui Lequan about the similarities and differences between water swing diving and modern-day diving.
Ta-da! Get ready for a wild ride with our new mini-series Sports Fantasia!
We're time-traveling back to ancient China with none other than Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympics, to uncover some seriously cool sports secrets.
Who comes to mind when thinking of a great archer — Eagle Eye, Oliver Queen (Green Arrow), Robin Hood, or maybe Cupid? In ancient China, archers didn't just aim for the bullseye; they shot in sync with musical rhythms! Why, you ask? In this episode, we explore the traditions of Chinese archery rituals and follow Monsieur Coubertin on his time-traveling adventure to see it all firsthand.
(01:00) Monsieur Coubertin's adventure; (04:40) Who comes to mind when thinking of a great archer? (06:09) What archery was called in ancient China and hear from Professor Cheng, a historian from Tsinghua University in Beijing, about ancient archery rituals.
Click to watch Monsieur Coubertin's adventure.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/R0KJxBAL7hM
Get ready for an exciting adventure with "Sports Fantasia"! Join us as we travel back to ancient China to experience traditional Chinese sports. With Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympics, we'll explore a fascinating mix of historical sports and shared cultural values. Coming soon!
The lotus flower, known as "荷花" in Chinese, is one of the top ten most popular flowers in China. In this episode, we'll discover why the lotus plant holds such a special place in the hearts of Chinese people.
When it comes to Chinese folk songs, "茉莉花" (jasmine flower) is often the first that comes to mind. But did you know that its name is also meant to encourage selflessness? In this episode of "A Thousand Whys," we explore why this gentle white flower holds such a special place in the hearts of Chinese people.
Duanwu Festival, or the Dragon Boat Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month on the traditional Chinese calendar, which falls on June 10 this year. As a traditional Chinese festival, it is celebrated in various ways, one of which is hanging Chinese mugwort. But do you know where this custom comes from? In this episode, we will show you the story behind this custom!
As temperature rises, there's nothing like chilling with a glass of refreshing pomegranate juice. Beyond its antioxidant-rich goodness, have you ever pondered why this fruit holds a special place in Chinese culture? Join us in this episode as we unravel the captivating tales behind the enchanting pomegranate flower!
迎春花, or winter jasmine, is a native plant of China with a recorded history spanning over 1,000 years. In this episode, we'll continue our floral journey and get to know the hidden meaning behind this flower in Chinese culture.
With the arrival of spring, colorful flowers are once again ready to take central stage. "A Thousand Whys" also offers a new series, exploring stories and meanings associated with various flowers. And in this episode, we will find out why peach blossoms are often associated with love in Chinese culture.
"拜年" is a cherished tradition observed during the Chinese New Year. It includes not just saying "Happy Chinese New Year" but also visiting friends and families, bringing them gifts and extending good wishes during the month-long celebration period. In this episode, we explore how Chinese people extend Spring Festival greetings in an efficient way!
2024 marks the Year of the Loong, or the Chinese dragon. In today's episode, we cover the powerful symbolism of loong in Chinese culture.
Dahan (大寒 dà hán), or Major Cold, falls on January 20th this year. In this episode, we show you how ancient Chinese merchants conduct a grand ceremony to honor the god of earth.
Xiaohan (小寒 xiǎo hán), or Minor Cold, falls on January 6th this year. In this episode, we show you what ancient Chinese people used to buy when preparing for the New Year.
Dongzhi (冬至 dōng zhì), or Winter Solstice, falls on December 22nd this year. It is the 22nd of the 24 solar terms and the fourth one in winter. In this episode, we show you why Chinese people "count in nines" in winter.
Daxue (大雪 dà xuě), or Major Snow, begins on December 7th this year. It is the 21st of the 24 solar terms and the third one in winter. In this episode, we show you whether ancient Chinese build snowmen in winter.
Xiaoxue (小雪 xiǎo xuě), or Minor Snow, begins on November 22nd this year. It is the 20th of the 24 solar terms and the second one in winter. In this episode, we show you how Chinese people enjoy vegetables in winter.
Lidong (立冬 lì dōng), or Start of Winter, begins on November 8th this year. It is the 19th of the 24 solar terms and the first one in winter. In this episode, we show you how Chinese people celebrate this solar term.
Shuangjiang (霜降 shuāng jiàng), or Frost's Descent, begins on October 24th this year. It is the 18th of the 24 solar terms and the last one in autumn. In this episode, we show you why Chinese people love to savor persimmons during this solar term.
Hanlu (寒露 hán lù), or Cold Dew, begins on October 8th this year. It is the 17th of the 24 solar terms and the fifth one in autumn. In this episode, we show you why Chinese people love to appreciate chrysanthemums during this solar term.
Qiufen (秋分 qiū fēn), or Autumn Equinox, begins on September 23rd this year. It is the 16th of the 24 solar terms and the fourth one of the autumn season. In this episode, we show you why this solar term is an important one in China.
Bailu (白露 bái lù), or White Dew, begins on September 8th this year. It is the 15th of the 24 solar terms and the third in autumn. In this episode, we show you a special way Chinese people welcome this solar term in style.
As summer fades, we embrace the "End of Heat", the 14th among the 24 solar terms, also known as Chushu (处暑 chǔ shǔ) in Chinese. One of the customs during Chushu is the floating of river lanterns. In Chinese mythology, this practice has something to do with two immortal figures: Zhurong and Gonggong.
Liqiu (立秋 lì qiū), or Beginning of Autumn, begins on August 8th this year. It is the 13th of the 24 solar terms and the first one of the autumn season. In this episode, we show you different ways of Chinese people welcoming this solar term.
The 12th solar term on the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, Dashu (大暑 dà shǔ), or Major Heat, begins on July 23rd this year. As the name suggests, Major Heat marks the peak of the summer season. In this episode, we show you an ancient Chinese people's brilliant solution to find relief in this "steaming and boiling" time of the year.
The 11th solar term on the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, Xiaoshu (小暑 xiǎo shǔ), or the Minor Heat, begins on July 7th this year. During Minor Heat, the temperature continues to rise, heralding the arrival of the hottest days of the year. In this episode, we show you ancient Chinese people's great ideas to stay cool in the hot summertime.
Duanwu Festival, or the Dragon Boat Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar, which falls on June 22nd this year. In this episode, we show you why Chinese people offer fans as gifts to others during the festival.
The tenth solar term on the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, Xiazhi (夏至 xià zhì), or the Summer Solstice, begins on June 21st this year. On this day, the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 90 degrees, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. In this episode, we show you why noodles have become a representative food item of this solar term.
The ninth solar term in China, Mangzhong (芒种 máng zhòng), or Grain in Ear, is a time of bustling activity in agriculture. The name itself has profound meanings. In this episode, we show you why ox is related to this solar term.
The eighth solar term on the traditional Chinese calendar, Xiaoman (小满 xiǎo mǎn), or the Grain Buds, is the second solar term in summer. In this episode, we take you to the folklore of Lei Zu, who was revered as the "Silkworm Goddess". Legend said she discovered the art of raising silkworms and imparted the knowledge of creating exquisite silk garments to others.
The seventh solar term in China, Lixia (立夏 lì xià), or the Start of Summer, marks the beginning of the summer season. In this episode, we take you to the fascinating story of Nu Wa, a Chinese goddess, using her wisdom to protect children. We'll also show you why Chinese children wear egg pouches and like to play the egg game on this day!
Get ready to immerse yourself in this tale of love, loss, and the power of myth. In this episode, we dive into the enchanting legend of the sixth solar term in China, Grain Rain(谷雨 gǔ yǔ), and the tragic love story of a young man and a peony fairy. Why is the peony also known as the "Flower of Guyu" and what’s its cultural significance in Chinese tradition? Find out in this episode, with all voices generated by AI technology.
Come listen to what ChatGPT has to say about China's popular snack during the Qingming Festival! Today's episode is generated and narrated by AI tools, and it introduces you to Qingtuan, a unique type of food that has been served during the Qingming Festival since ancient times. What are the cultural meanings of this green rice ball, and why is it such an important part of China's Qingming Festival tradition? Travel with us on this AI guided tour and find out!
What exactly is a Chinese gentleman, and what are the essential traits that define the spirit of the "君子 Junzi"? In this episode, we will dive deep into the world of the "君子" and explore the key virtues and characteristics that have shaped Chinese culture for centuries.
According to the Five Elements of Chinese philosophy, spring is associated with the color green, the wood element, and the climate of wind. So we eat green vegetables, plant seeds, and fly kites. After a season of darkness and quietness, the spring equinox marks the beginning of spring. Let’s celebrate the time of rebirth.
In ancient China, where a patriarchal society was the norm, did women have the opportunity to pursue career or political aspirations? What kind of roles did "female officials" play in the ancient Chinese dynasties?
As March arrives, nature welcomes the third solar term "Jingzhe", or "the Awakening of Insects". What is it that awakens the insects in spring? What are the exciting folk customs in China during this time of year?
There is an ancient Chinese saying, “春雨贵如油，the spring rain is as precious as oil,” but why and how is the rain in spring is so important? What interesting customs take place during the solar term “Rain Water”?
Whether humans are born with an innately good or evil nature is still an ongoing debate after thousands of years of discussions. Today, we’ll travel back to ancient China, and find out how some of China’s most renowned philosophers answered this question!
In almost every culture, there exist myths regarding floods. In China, the story of Yu the Great has been told for centuries and has inspired generations of Chinese people to better manage water and find ways to coexist with Mother Nature. Check out this episode of A Thousand Whys and get a feel for how one flood myth has been teaching Chinese people to keep floods at bay.
As one of the most common elements of daily life, water is one of the root metaphors in Chinese culture and wisdom. What is the Chinese “way of water”? How does the way we perceive water affect our self-identity?
February 4th sees the arrival of the first of this year’s traditional Chinese solar terms, named Lichun, usually translated into English as the “Beginning of Spring.” In ancient times, this particular day was seen as the prelude to a whole host of seasonal activities to welcome the coming spring. Tune into today’s episode to hear more about how the Chinese celebrate Lichun!
During the Chinese New Year, known as Spring Festival in the country, one of the most popular greetings is 恭喜发财，which translates as ‘Wishing you Prosperity and Wealth’. How did this greeting come about? Who is the Chinese God of Wealth? When do Chinese people welcome this propitious God? What stories are told about this deity? Why do Chinese people give red envelopes during the Spring Festival? This episode brings you all the things you need to know about wealth and the Chinese New Year.
With New Year celebrations worldwide done and dusted, attention is now turning to the Chinese New Year, saying goodbye to the year of the roaring tiger and to welcome the year of the tender rabbit. How is the rabbit represented in traditional Chinese culture? Is there a story behind this particular Chinese zodiac sign? Hop over to check out this new edition of A Thousand Whys!
The ancient Chinese bathing culture dates back to 3,000 years ago. For ancient Chinese, taking a bath was not just a personal hygiene issue, it was also considered an art and a lifestyle. So how did people bathe in ancient China? What can you expect in today’s commercial bathing houses in China? Explore this episode for more.
Qipao, or the Cheongsam, is widely regarded as the dress that best brings out the charm of Chinese women. This type of traditional tight-fitting garment has transformed from a gender equality statement to everyday clothing, and now to a fashionable expression of Chinese elegance in the past century. How did Qipao come into being and what stories are behind its cultural connotation? Tune into today's episode and find out!
How come holidays originated from bathing in ancient China? How did the ancient Chinese distinguish between workdays and non-work days? Which dynasty had the longest holiday? Who is the workaholic in Chinese history? In this episode, we will tell you something interesting about holidays in Chinese history.
You probably know that the Spring Festival is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture, when families get together to welcome another new year. But did you know that over 2,000 years ago, Chinese people actually marked the beginning of a new year on another day? That is, the winter solstice day, better known as Dongzhi in China. Tune in to learn about how Chinese people celebrate the arrival of winter.
How did the love of a princess’s dress almost bring about an environmental disaster in Chinese history? Then how did ancient Chinese people protect wildlife? In this episode of A Thousand Whys, we’ll explore the ancient Chinese wisdom in protecting the environment.
Have you heard of a game called Cuju? This "kick-ball" game was played in China as early as over 2,000 years ago. Well, as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 reaches its exciting finals, we are going to talk a bit about football games, and try to decode how the ancient Chinese celebrated their love for this unique ball game. Tune in to find out more in today's episode!
Winter is coming! In this episode, we tell stories about beauties and daffodils and explore why Chinese people love to describe beauties as ice and snow.
China's traditional tea-making has been added to UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. As THE most popular drink of the Chinese people, tea boasts a history almost as long as that of the Chinese civilization. It is something like coffee to Westerners that could never be absent or replaced in one's daily life. In this rebroadcast of one past episode, let’s find out how Chinese people love drinking tea and how it has become part of our life.
Besides keeping us hydrated and clean, one of the most important practical uses of water is transportation. The longest canal in the world is in China! But why do some say that its construction caused the fall of a dynasty?
If you’ve ever visited China, you are probably surprised by people drinking boiled water. Some might tell you boiling water removes harmful bacteria that could potentially make you sick. But this doesn't explain the practice of boiling bottled water!
The board game Go is perhaps the most challenging one of all, for human intelligence and for artificial intelligence. In this episode, let's examine this complicated yet charming strategy game.
If you love flowers, here's a chance to indulge yourself in a sea of blossoms in this early spring. A Thousand Whys invites you to a flower-themed gathering.
In the closing ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games, the theme “A Willow Twig” was presented both as a symbol of bidding farewell to the athletes and a remembrance for lost ones in ancient Chinese culture. Do you know why willow branches serve as a symbol of farewell? What exactly do willow trees represent in the Chinese context? Let’s find out in today’s episode!
Jade and silk are two things that are dear to the hearts of Chinese people. It is therefore no surprise that they are part of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. The design of the Beijing 2022 medals is based on Chinese ancient jade pendants while their ribbons are made of silk. The combination of jade and silk symbolizes "peace" – and the medals' design is inspired by a Chinese legend from ancient times. A Thousand Whys tells you more about the beautiful allusion of the duo of jade and silk.
For skiers and snowboarders in China, the Altay Prefecture of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is a dreamland. With a vast area of natural powder snow, Altay is considered by some as the birthplace of skiing that dates back to tens of thousands of years ago. Meet an age-old winter tale in this episode of A Thousand Whys.
What is the first self-constructed railway line in China? How does it relate to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics?
Chinese people are looking forward to the Lunar New Year! And according to the Chinese zodiac, 2022 is the "Year of the Tiger." The big cat is known to be the "King of All Beasts" in China and is third among the twelve Chinese zodiac signs. Why is 2022 the year of Tiger? What are the fun stories behind the zodiac signs and its sequence? Let's dive right into this episode and find out!
Imagine playing football on ice, doing archery while skating, or being in a big air game on ice? This is not a joke. These are real ice games that were once played in the winter in ancient China. In this episode, we take you on a journey back to an ancient world of winter sports from which you may get some inspiration, while tracing the history of ice sports in China.
By stringing sugar-coated fruit on a skewer, the unique Chinese snack Tanghulu has attracted many to DIY it at home for the sweet crunchy bite. But did you know that this sweet treat is also one of the traditional snacks of Beijing? Do you know the connection between Tanghulu and the old capital city? Let’s have a listen and find out!
The Beihai Park, or the Northern Sea Park, is a great place to enjoy the water view and a boat ride in Beijing. But for anyone who visits the park for the first time, the "sea" in the name might seem a bit misleading. It’s highly likely that he or she will wonder: Why is it called a sea? In present-day downtown Beijing, there are six interconnected lakes that are called various “seas”. Why?
A Thousand Whys introduces you to a popular stage performing art that may help improve your sense of Chinese humor: cross talk. This traditional performing art remains popular, especially among young people in China. Listen to this episode to find out why.
Is there still “old Beijing” in the new Beijing? In this episode, we will share with you the traits of Beijing that have survived throughout the centuries and are still vibrant today. Attention! We’re going to discuss something that's hidden behind the hutongs, quadrangles, or the other iconic symbols that you can easily find in a Beijing travel guidebook.
Taking a walk with a pet bird has been a popular hobby of some Chinese people for centuries. In this episode, we are going to introduce to you why we do it, what it is like, as well as some fun facts and tricks about this particular Chinese tradition. Want to know how and why we walk birds? Please join us on A Thousand Whys!
With expanding urbanization all around the globe, historical residences that still exist today are especially precious as witnesses of history and traditional culture. In this episode, let's tour around a traditional residence in China's capital city Beijing. The siheyuan courtyard, or a quadrangle, shows us a glimpse of what Beijing style was like back in time.
"Golden doornails on a red gate" has been a symbol of the imperial power of the Qing dynasty. Apart from this, did you know that doornails have long been used in China for centuries? In this episode, we are going to introduce to you how Chinese doornails evolved into the way they are today. Let's check this out!
What do you think is the meaning of a birthday celebration? Sending and receiving best wishes, perhaps? This episode of A Thousand Whys shares with you an interesting and meaningful Chinese tradition concerning birthday celebration – not for kids this time, but rather, for seniors!
The first birthday of a baby is the most precious – it’s a landmark for any child as well as an exciting time for parents. In China, it’s believed by some that the first thing you pick up at your first birthday party can tell about your future career. Interested in the “picking up” game for the first birthday, in a Chinese way?
If someone tells you that he/she saw Mr. Zhougong last night, you might wonder, who is Mr. Zhougong? Anyone to be worried about?
You might know Shanghai as an international cultural metropolis, yet you probably don’t know that Shanghai is also an international hub of shipping and trade. This episode will share with you some fun facts about “the city you think you know.”
Peking Opera has been one of China's most popular traditional performing arts for 200 years. Want to know what's so special about it and why we love it so much? Let's check it out!
Fungi are perhaps one of the most fantastic creatures in our planet. There's a place in China that drives mushroom lovers crazy. Let's dive in!
The list of the first batch of national parks in China has just been announced. These parks are for the protection of rare plants, birds and animals, the preservation of land and water, and for the Chinese people’s long tradition of love towards nature, especially in the hearts of the poets, painters and philosophers. In today’s episode, we explore these charming locations and look at how the ancient Chinese people appreciated the beauty of nature.
As the temperature continues to drop, the traditional Chinese calendar has ushered in another solar term today: the Cold Dew. In case you are curious about why we have soooo many different solar terms in a year, we bring the answer in this episode.
There is a saying that one must learn about Confucius and his legacy to truly understand China. The Analects of Confucius is the absolute classic on Confucianism. But was the book really written by Confucius?
Though many of us tend to consider autumn as a time of nostalgia and sadness - some may even experience seasonal affective disorder, or SAD - a Tang Dynasty poet had a totally different perspective of this season.
Eating moon cakes is an essential part of celebrating the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival in China. But did you know that these small pastries can sometimes trigger a heated debate?
A new study has found evidence of beer drinking dating back to about 9,000 years ago in southern China. Let's dive into the world of ancient drinkers who tried to enjoy Happy Hour in their own way.
A total of 108 dishes in one single banquet… The Manchu-Han imperial feast is more than a symbol of luxury in ancient Chinese royal cuisine, but also a blend of ethnic culinary cultures.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner… many of us have been brought up with the habit of eating three meals a day. However, it might shock you that it wasn’t always the case.
To build up motivation for space explorers to venture into the unknown world, it definitely takes a lot of courage, ambition and perhaps more importantly, love. In this episode, let's talk about something that's worth pondering on behind all the great space ventures.
It’s been almost two months since the three Chinese taikonauts entered China’s space station and started their three-month stay. What do they do on their days off? What fun things can they do without gravity up there?
Without scientific explanation, the darkening of the Moon may be a startling event. That is probably why lunar eclipses were once a source of mythology in ancient China. But were astronomers at the time able to explain this celestial phenomenon?
What is it like to live in a space station 24/7 for three months? Is it better or worse than living on earth? Here are the answers to satisfy your curiosity.
It would appear like people never tire of talking about space, the stars, and everything else over our heads. The ancients also had their own ambitions to explore the mysteries of outer space. Sometimes, our forebears could be far more adventurous than you could imagine.
Food obviously plays an essential part in supporting life on space stations. What do people in space eat? Can they enjoy a decent meal, as we do here on Earth?
What was the inspiration behind exploring the universe, or more recently, the naming of China’s space station?
We all love to daydream our way into space. But some people have already ventured there in real life. That’s right: astronauts. With China dispatching three astronauts to its space station for the first time, the word “taikonaut” has gone viral. Why are Chinese astronauts called taikonauts?
As the Shenzhou-12 astronauts became the first Chinese to enter a space station, ‘A Thousand Whys’ is proud to launch a new series “Space Talk”. Prepare yourselves for unprecedented space travel as we take you to explore new heights, as well as the ancient legends behind what we call outer space today.
Peking duck obviously has made its name at home and abroad. Surprisingly however, the most duck-obsessed city in the country is not the Chinese capital. Disclaimer alert! Animal lovers be advised that this episode contains graphic content on eating duck.
The century egg is probably one of the most misunderstood foods in Chinese cuisine. What is it? Does it really take a century to make? Why do Chinese people love this weird little black egg so much? Here come the answers.
In a few days’ time, we will enjoy a delicious treat called “zongzi”, or “sticky rice dumplings”, for the Dragon Boat Festival. Have you ever wondered why we are so obsessed with eating certain kinds of food at different times of the year?
Surströmming, blue cheese, durian… It seems like the love for stinky food is somewhat shared among all cultures. Well, in China, there’s also a smelly but delicious food that we can’t seem able to say no to – stinky tofu!
If you randomly ask any young person on the street in China, no matter the city, what their favorite food is, the answer you are most likely to get is hot pot!
Since the Sanxingdui site was first discovered almost a century ago, humans have never stopped exploration of this mysterious archaeological site. It seems that this enigmatic ancient civilization has a lot more stories to tell as well as mysteries for humans to uncover. Let’s check some of the still-unsolved puzzles and questions about Sanxingdui.
Where did the people who once lived in Sanxingdui eventually end up? Why did the once-prosperous civilization seem to vanish into thin air?
The obsession with gold has been a human weakness since the moment our ancestors first glimpsed its luminous surface. Tune in to learn about the latest golden discoveries unearthed at the Sanxingdui site.
Was Sanxingdui built by an alien civilization? While this might unfortunately just be far-fetched thinking, let’s look at some of the mysterious clues.
Everything you need to know about the discovery of Sanxingdui, one of the greatest and most mysterious archaeological findings in China.
Aliens, buried artifacts, worship of God, a mysterious ancient kingdom, and a lost civilization… Sanxingdui is a combination of all these.
When you binge watch dance and prank videos on TikTok or giggle at celebrity gossip news on Twitter, have you ever wondered what people did to kill time thousands of years ago?
For every Chinese person, the dinner on Spring Festival Eve is probably the most important meal of the whole year. It is a tradition for people to return to their hometown, no matter what, to spend this occasion with the family.
When the Spring Festival arrives each year, people celebrate it with various traditions and folk customs, most of which have been handed down over generations. But there’s one that is quite contemporary, only in existence about 40 years or so – the Spring Festival Gala, or Chunwan in Chinese. A feast of entertainment and performances presented to the nation by China Central Television (CCTV), it has undoubtedly become an impressive cultural symbol for the celebration of the Spring Festival nowadays. Let’s find out more.
On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, some people are excited to meet their family, longing for New Year Eve's dinner, enjoy the festive environment indoors and outdoors. However, there are some people who are troubled for certain reasons. Why?
If you want to experience a festive and traditional environment on the Spring Festival, a temple fair is probably your best bet. Whether you’re in the north or the south of the country, a temple fair is like a standard configuration to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year. To know more about the origin and development of these fairs, don’t miss this episode of A Thousand Whys.
The color red is special to the Chinese people. We love to see it as much as possible on significant occasions such as during the Spring Festival or at weddings. Why do the Chinese have a soft spot for the color red? Does the color carry any special connation for us?
We have just ushered in the Chinese Lunar New Year. It is the Year of the Ox according to the Chinese zodiac. The ox is the second animal symbol of the cycle, coming after the rat. How does the ox get to lose out to the rat and come in second? And what animal sign are you?
Snow is the buzzword at the start of December every year in China as it marks the arrival of Da Xue, or major snow, a solar term indicating midwinter. Did you know that snow means so much more than just fun winter sports?
In China, whether you are in the city or the countryside, it’s not unusual to see a uniquely-shaped traditional Chinese structure that’s wall-less with pillars supporting its roof. It’s called the Chinese pavilion, which both functions as a shelter for people and a part of the landscape as well.
What about going to a place where salons and parties are combined? It’s usually set in a natural environment, near a mountain, along the riverside, in the bamboo forest, or simply in one’s garden.
Lions, though not indigenous to China, have been an important part of Chinese culture. Stone lions have been guarding entrances of buildings silently for centuries. So why this creature among others, and what are they there for?
If winter comes, can spring be far behind? Well, before we talk about the verdant spring, we can't skip winter. With the solar term of the Beginning of Winter having just passed, we have entered the last season of the year. What special meanings does winter carry for the Chinese people?
It seems that people believe drinking hot water can heal almost everything from colds, headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, stress, to even painful menstruation. Well, our obsession with hot water came into being thanks to tea culture at the very beginning.
Sweet Osmanthus is only in bloom for a short time each year. But the Chinese love it so much that they make sure its fragrance lasts the whole year.
Here’s a riddle for you: When autumn comes, as all flowers fall, and everything turns bleak, what blossoms brightly as the sun? I suppose you didn’t guess the chrysanthemum, which is famously favored by the Chinese literati due to its unique characteristics and loved by all others for its various functions. Follow Shen Ting to find out more about the Chinese people’s love towards this amazing flower.
Promise me, if you run into a Chinese person holding an umbrella when the sun is big and bright in the sky, keep your cool. A Thousand Whys will tell you why Chinese people use their umbrellas when there is no sign of rain at all.
What’s the key word in your mind for autumn? Harvest? Red leaves? Fun? But looking through traditional Chinese literature, you’ll probably find a common emotion of melancholy or sadness, which even created a genre called the Mourning for Autumn. Follow Shen Ting in this episode and get into the emotional world of autumn.
Believe it or not, fish are regarded as ethereal in Chinese culture. It’s not only about abundance and success, it also guides people who want to achieve true happiness and freedom, in both life and death.
In China, finding true love doesn’t necessarily involve a chubby, winged little boy with a bow and arrow. We have our own version of Cupid in Chinese mythology. But who is he and what does he do in happily ever after stories?
When you pay a visit to a traditional Chinese structure, whether it’s a pavilion, platform, royal palace or a temple, have you ever noticed the uniquely-shaped and beautifully-decorated eave corners, some of which with an elegant upward curve? Ever wonder whether if they were created merely for aesthetic values or some other functional purposes? Let’s find it out in this special episode of ATWs.
The 7th day of the 7th month of the Chinese lunar calendar, is the reunion day in mythology of a parted couple, but only for once a year. It's also the day when women wish for a better self.
Does the direction a house/apartment faces matter? To the Chinese, the answer is yes. Most Chinese would prefer south-facing homes. What does it mean and why?
My name is Shen Ting. Can you tell which is my given name and which is my family name? How many surnames are there in China? Which are the most common? Get the answers to all these questions in this episode of A Thousand Whys.
Some say that only people with Chinese cultural background can understand the romantic naming of China's spacecrafts. While by listening to this episode of A Thousand Whys, anyone from the English-speaking world could also get a touch of the deeply culture-rooted nature.
We’ve all met craftsmen, carpenters or engineers who are very skillful, capable with their hands, and full of brilliant ideas. Complimenting these guys by calling them ‘modern day Lu Bans’ should be flattering to hear, if they only knew. But who was this “Lu Ban” exactly and why should we know about him?
For the Chinese, Jiangnan is not so much a geographical term as it is a cultural concept, though its literal meaning of "south of the Yangzte River" contains more geographical senses. As a local culture with a strong personality of its own, it has been part of the whole picture of the Chinese culture and making its own contribution for quite a long time.
Why is this cute little landscape in a container regarded as the highest level of art in China? Believe it or not, it represents your inner world.
Why are mountains such a big deal to the Chinese? Why do most legends involve a summit of some sort? What are the “Five Great Mountains” in Chinese folklore and how’d they get this title?
It is the longest river in China. It claims different names for its different parts. It has nurtured a variety of local cultures with distinctive characteristics from the upper reaches to the lower reaches. It is the Yangtze River. Let’s learn more about its past, present and future with Shen Ting.
We dedicate a festival to him and commemorate him every year on the lunar May 5. Get ready for a story about China's first romantic poet, a patriot, and a reformer, Qu Yuan. What does this have to do with romanticism?
As many of us literally survive on electric fans and air conditioners to go through the hottest days of the year, there are still some Chinese keeping the habit of using traditional handheld fans to provide a cool breeze on a hot summer’s day. How do we explain this behavior over the use of fans?
Many states around the world possess their own mother rivers. And for China, the Chinese people almost have a consensus to give this title to the Yellow River, not simply because it boasts to be the second longest river in the country but also because it crades the Chinese civilization. Let's find out more with Shen Ting.
You may have heard of time juggling or dream in a dream in the movie Inception, but do you know the Taoist philosopher Zhuangzi (3rd century B.C.) also touched the definitions of reality vs. illusion in his dream? You may have read about Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, but do you know there’s almost a Chinese equivalence to that, which has also inspired one of the most famous orchestra music works appealing to western ears? These all have something to do with one insect – butterfly.
When some say “Happy birthday” on that special day, we say “May you enjoy health and longevity”. Yes, some Chinese traditions for celebrating birthdays might seem novel to many outside of the culture. Here are some basics for understanding Chinese birthday celebrations.
Standing at the end of the central axis of the ancient Beijing City are two tall buildings that have become landmarks in the capital. Such twin buildings could be found in many cities and towns with long history around China. Called as the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, they had been functioning for hundreds of year for the city management in ancient China. Let's hear what Shen Ting has to say.
How come this incredible little insect became the symbol of "making the impossible possible"? In many cultures, bees represent the god of love. Many believe the spirit of bees is to live and learn, to love and care.
If you ask someone from China “what do you think is the king of all flowers”, different people would probably manage to agree on one candidate. What is it, and why?
Many people start learning the Chinese culture from reciting some famous Chinese poems, since China boasts a rich tradition of poetry throughout its history. To track the source of such a tradition, we’ll have to go back to two millennia ago when an ancient China classic was compiled, which cast great influence on the Chinese poetry, as well as on the Chinese culture and society.
For many Chinese people, tiger-head shoes are their first pair of shoes in life. Although it doesn't click together three times against the yellow brick road like what Dorothy does with her ruby red slippers, the tiger-head shoes still bring a strong sense of home.
The Forbidden City is one of the most missed places to visit during the spring season of hope and life. Sadly, the much-loved tourist attraction has been temporarily closed to the public for more than 70 days due to the COVID-19 outbreak. However, despite everybody staying at home and practicing social distancing, millions of people were able to enjoy a dream-come-true virtual guided tour of this cultural relic in early April thanks to cloud live streaming. But what is it that makes the Forbidden City so irresistible?
Qingming Festival, mostly known as the Tomb Sweeping Day, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. Usually in early April, the festival actually contains more meanings than the tomb sweeping for the Chinese people. To find out more about this ancient festival, let’s hear what Shen Ting has to say.
According to the Five Elements of Chinese philosophy, spring is associated with the color green, the wood element, and the climate of wind. So we eat green vegetables, plant seeds, and fly kites. After a season of darkness and quietness, the spring equinox marks the beginning of spring. Let’s celebrate the time of rebirth.
Turn to ancient Chinese wisdom for fun games to play if you want to take a break from the digital world. Families with young kids in particular would love them.
Peach blossom is favored by the Chinese people not only because of its beauty, but also the cultural connotation it contains thanks to an article composed more than two millennia ago. And of course it won’t be just for the blossom that the plant of peach has been enchanting the Chinese for so many centuries. Shen Ting tells you more about it.
Orchid, together with plum, chrysanthemum, and bamboo, are referred to as "The Noble Four" of plants, or the Four Gentlemen. Click to learn why orchid makes the perfect symbol of friendship, integrity, and nobility among all flowers in Chinese culture.
Magpies don’t have the best of reputations, being known as the scavenger, predator, thief, attacker and even a sign of bad luck in some cultures. But folktales in China tell a different story about magpies that symbolize joy, good luck, happiness and fortune. Want to share a bit of magpie luck?
An order of noodle, or a bowl of rice? That's a question. But, maybe not to the Chinese people - well, at least in the traditional impression about our dietary customs which goes like "northerners like eating noodles, while southerners prefer the rice." However, the real situation might not be so absolute and simple. Follow Shen Ting to explore more about Chinese people's choices on noodles and rice.
Yes, of course! When Valentine's Day is around, a handkerchief with hand-embroidered mandarin ducks will make a perfect gift for love birds.
During the Spring Festival holidays, the Chinese people pay visits or give New Year’s greetings to each other, which are not done as you wish but in accordance with some traditions and etiquettes. But please be noticed, this year’s Spring Festival is quite different to the Chinese people, due to the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan City. Some traditions to celebrate the Chinese New Year have to be dropped for now for the sake of health and safety. But I believe as soon as the epidemic passes, everything will get back to its normal track.
What’s a holiday without the right food? Tender, juicy and plump, the Chinese dumpling—Jiaozi is considered by many a must-have for celebrating the Chinese New Year. You know why we love Jiaozi so much?
There is always one thing to conquer another. The men-eating Nian, or the Year monster is no exception. What is he afraid of on earth?
If you find it hard to understand Chinese martial arts novels, get to know about JIANGHU first. Where there are people, there is Jianghu.
Still remember the "Three Friends of the Winter" favored by the Chinese? We've talked about the first two - the bamboo and the pine tree, and now let's meet the third one, the plum blossom. You know what, it's almost the time for us to enjoy the beauty of plum blossom throughout China. So, before that, let's get some ideas about it and get prepared.
Apart from the Gregorian calendar, the Chinese also observe our own lunar calendar. How does it work and what does it mean to the Chinese?
“A Diamond is Forever.” But it can never replace Chinese people’s love of jade, a special kind of stone symbolizing the values of ethics and honor.
Pine and cypress are not simply two kinds of trees in minds of the Chinese people. They have been personified in literature, paintings and other artistic creations throughout the Chinese history, which means Chinese people possess unique feelings and emotion toward these two plants. Let's hear what Shen Ting has to tell you about this love for pines and cypresses.
Winter can be brutal in some parts of China, especially in the north, where blizzards and icy roads are not uncommon. If you want to survive the worst that the winters here can throw at you, it's important to be prepared. Here are some tips for making it through the chilliest days of the year.
We love panda. Panda loves bamboo. We love bamboo. Come on! The love of the Chinese people toward bamboo can't be explained in such a simple mode. Bamboo means so much to the Chinese culture and civilization. As a commodity, it can be easily detected in our daily life, while as a cultural symbol, it has been deeply implanted in the Chinese people's minds.
Chinese people have pursued harmony since ancient times, and the same is true for moderation to music, without emphasizing sharp semitones. The five music notes were connected with the five elements of the nature, and the five main organs of a human body. Meet the world's earliest music therapy.
Angelic, divine, sublime…there are so many words to describe beauty that they make the word beautiful just a bit too common. Here in China, there is a kind of stunning beauty that can "make the fish forget how to swim and birds how to fly." How does it happen? And who is it talking about?
"How's it going?" "Are you all right?" These are how Americans and British people greet each other on a daily basis. Chinese people greet each other, however, by putting forward a question about eating. To find out more about this unique greeting manner and the cultural reason behind it, let's take a listen.
What?! By inserting hair-thin needles to specific acupuncture points, the acupuncturists can restore the flow of “qi”, balance the body’s energy, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation.
Crabs aren’t the most attractive-looking creatures. But the taste of their meat can be irresistible. Have you ever wondered: who was the first person to come up with the brilliant idea that crabs could be eaten? This episode of A Thousand Whys may cause the audience to produce excessive amount of saliva, so listener discretion is advised.
As THE most popular drink of the Chinese people, tea boasts a history almost as long as that of the Chinese civilization. It is something like coffee to westerners that could never be missed or replaced in one's daily life. Let's find out more about how Chinese people love drinking tea and how it has become part of our life.
To answer that, we might as well first talk about something in the ancient Book of Changes. Numbers from 1 to 10 have either yin or yang characteristics.
Smooth and shiny, soft yet strong, silk is considered a symbol of luxury for thousands of years. It frequents runways of fashion weeks, and is the popular choice of royalty and nobility. But did you know that silk was one of the longest kept industrial secrets in the world? Have you ever wondered how silk was invented?
Autumn is here! As nature will soon cast its magic on mountains and woods by adding various charming colors, the weather is also getting colder and colder. In China, especially in the north of country, many people follow such a folk custom called as "pasting the autumn fat" by eating more meat at this time of year. Sounds weird? But don't draw a conclusion so easily until you finish listening to this episode with our host Shen Ting.
Every year when the summer heat is gone, and the moon is full and bright, it’s time to celebrate. On what the Chinese call the Mid-Autumn Festival or the Moon Festival, the moon is the absolute center of attention. Do you have any idea how much we are fascinated by our cosmic neighbor?
In modern days, people are writing less and less with pens. Instead, the computer and smart phone have taken place to function as the method of conveying or recording information and messages. But in China, there are still quite a large quantity of people practicing the traditional Chinese handwriting, or the Chinese calligraphy. What's the charm and magic behind it? Let's find out more.
Cicadas have a rather short life, but they signify rebirth and immortality in Chinese folklore and art. They’re known for their noisiness, but useful in Chinese medicine in treating ear-ache, sore throat, husky voice, and sick eyes. (Photo by Xie Yanan)
Chinese people are considered to be good at martial arts, or Kung Fu. There is Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Jet Li to name just a few of the masters the world may well know. But are all, or most of the Chinese people good at Kung Fu as some may assume?
Ask any Chinese people about his or her favorite flower in summer, you would probably get the same answer - the lotus. It is beautiful, it is fragrant, and it contains some cultural messages that really enchant the Chinese people. You'll surely find out more after listening to this episode.
If you lived in ancient times and wanted to build a house, what materials would you use for the framework? In China, the answer was wood. Why?
For a Chinese person, Sichuan Cuisine means something that can really bring out your great appetites, no matter whether you are a lover of spicy food or not. How could the food coming from a province in southwest China become a knock-out cuisine that has won most stomaches throughout the country? Let's find out with Shen Ting.
Playing with fire, standing for justice, fighting for peace... mythical animals can do a lot that humans are not able to. These glass animals are often seen on the upturn eaves of Chinese imperial buildings. Find out who they are and what they're good at.
The world of numbers is fascinating. While designers are obsessed with the golden ratio 1.618, and mathematicians with Pi 3.1415926, the Chinese people tend to mostly favor the number 8. But why?
Why do the Chinese people love using chopsticks, which look so hard to master for many westerners? Why do they not throw these two sticks away and turn to use fork and knife like many people in the rest of the world? Listen to the show and find out reasons in terms of funtions and cultural connotation contained in chopsticks.
Shirley shares the secret about the one accessory that's also a lifesaver in ancient China.
If you’ve a chance to go to a museum and take a look at the section of the Chinese relics, you’ll be sure find many exhibits of China wares. But have you ever noticed that many of them are in the pattern of blue and white, which is a unique style to differentiate the porcelain works of China from other countries? Why do Chinese people love the pattern of blue and white so much and even give it a name as Qing Hua Ci?
You may say this kind of eyes is slanted eyes. We don’t. We say it’s phoenix eyes, and it's considered noble in ancient China. While doctors may say it’s epicanthal fold, and it's good to protect the eyes from extreme sunlight and cold weather. Now the question is: Why are these eyes considered noble?
The stories of the dragon are told in many cultures in the world. Some dread it. Others adore the legendary creature so much that there is popular saying that they are the descendants of the dragon. It’s not the Targaryens. It’s the Chinese we’re talking about. But why?