A Thousand Whys
China Plus
A Thousand Whys is tailor-made for curious minds about China and the Chinese culture. This podcast offers fascinating facts about what this ancient civilization has to offer, covering a wide range of topics including history, philosophy, literature and arts, lifestyle, science, and the natural world. Subscribe to learn "what are the Chinese ways and why", for free.
A Thousand Whys is tailor-made for curious minds about China and the Chinese culture. This podcast offers fascinating facts about what this ancient civilization has to offer, covering a wide range of topics including history, philosophy, literature and arts, lifestyle, science, and the natural world. Subscribe to learn "what are the Chinese ways and why", for free.
China’s evolving serpent legacy: Ferocious treasures, from rituals to households
Episode
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? Special thanks: The Gansu Provincial Museum Liu Zhihua Liu Yanfeng
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? Special thanks: The Zhejiang Provincial Museum Jiang Yu Liu Yanfeng
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. Special thanks: The Gansu Provincial Museum Liu Zhihua Liu Yanfeng
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. Special thanks: The Zhejiang Provincial Museum Liu Yanfeng
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. 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?
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”?