Articles that cut to the core of contemporary China. In-depth, informed, and carefully crafted, every piece is carried by the voices of the story’s participants.

FEATURES

features

Dot Dot Dot: What the Last Ever Telegrams From Hangzhou Say

As one of China’s last telegraph stations prepared to shut down, thousands lined up to say goodbye — in ink, by hand, one word at a time.

Chen Yiru

One Piece Puzzle: How Anime Merch Found the Perfect Fit in China

Once niche and underground, anime, comic, and game collectibles are now a $23 billion force shaping China’s next consumer wave.

Ding Rui

Small City, Big Spenders: The Rise of China’s New Consumer Class

As China’s economy matures, consumer spending growth in smaller cities is outpacing spending in larger ones, pulling in high-end brands.

Li Xin

Behind China’s Growth Numbers, a Nation Still Saving

Despite steady growth and policy support, household data reveals high saving rates and persistent caution across regions and age groups.

Luo Yahan

He Qitong

Before the Dawn: Young Chinese Reimagine the Last Goodbye

A growing number of young Chinese are challenging long-held taboos around death, turning farewells into personal, creative acts of remembrance.

Cat Clause: Pet ‘Loan’ Disputes Spread in China

Nationwide complaints about cat “adoption” businesses are exposing the darker side of China’s booming pet industry.

Balancing Act: Can ‘Mom Jobs’ Help China’s Women Have It All?

Flexible-hour jobs are allowing more mothers to juggle work and childcare, but with most positions in low-skilled sectors, there’s a risk of only reinforcing gender roles.

Fan Yiying

Yang  Yuchen

Fade to Black: What Lies Beneath China’s Lake of Legends

Nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, a lake in southwestern China is drawing a steady stream of divers. Its pull: challenging diving conditions and the tales of China’s own Atlantis hidden below.

Li Pasha

Golden Oldies: Aging Fans Fuel Pop Singer’s Comeback

After a decade away from the spotlight, musician Dao Lang has struck a chord with middle-aged and elderly fans for his grassroots style.

Jiang Xinyi

Road to Ruin: How China’s Motorcycle Influencers Risk It All for Views

In recent years, several young women motorcycle influencers have died in high-speed crashes. Their deaths have sparked widespread debate over the risks of pushing the limits for online attention.