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

In Shanghai’s Prisons, Inmates Find Solace and Skill in Textile Art

In Shanghai’s Nanhui Prison, an unusual tapestry embroidery program offers inmates new skills, improves mental health, and provides a path to rehabilitation.

Fan Yiying

Dong Ziqing

In Wuhan, Robotaxis Put China’s Self-Driving Ambitions to the Test

With government support and backing from tech giants, robotaxis are rapidly integrating into daily life in China. But the rollout is sparking a nationwide debate.

Ye Zhanhang

Wang Jingyang

Shanghai’s Last Accordion Craftsman Just Wants to Make Ends Meet

Shen Jian never learned how to play the instrument, but after almost 50 years spent building accordions, he’s one of the few remaining custodians of an almost forgotten musical tradition.

Zhou Zhijian

Wu Huiyuan 

Fool’s Gold: Fake Antique Livestreams Prey on China’s Elderly

In recent months, livestream scams targeting the elderly with counterfeit antiques like coins, pottery, and artwork have surged. Victims’ families have now banded together online to share advice, file complaints, and reclaim lost money.

Ding Rui

Yin  Ziyuan 

In Black Myth: Wukong, China Sees a Game That Could Change Everything

Rooted in the classic novel “Journey to the West,” China’s first big-budget AAA video game has stunned the global gaming industry, drawing a record 2.2 million concurrent players on Steam at launch.

Li  Yanshu

With AI, China’s New Hit Dramas Are Virtually Writing Themselves

More and more of China’s ultrashorts are now being crafted entirely by AI, from script to special effects. But as the technology advances, concerns about creativity and authenticity continue to grow.

Li Xin

Lin Liuhan

China’s First Suona Ph.D. Is Ready for Her Solo

Liu Wenwen wants to make the traditional instrument — renowned for its noisiness — cool again.

Wu Haiyun

Catching the Curl: Inside China’s Quiet Surfing Revolution

Despite losing in the round of 16, Yang Siqi’s Olympic debut marks a significant moment for China’s fledgling surfing scene. Her journey, though cut short, highlights the challenges Chinese surfers face, from inconsistent training conditions to limited global exposure.

He Qitong

In China, A New Alzheimer’s Drug Is Met With Cautious Optimism

Lecanemab was approved for use in the country earlier this year. But getting the most out of the drug will require broader reforms.

Going for Gold: The Chinese Athletes to Watch at Paris 2024

From seasoned champions to rising stars across a wide range of sports and events, these are the Chinese stars set to bring home medals from Paris.