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Recovering the Lost Smells of China’s Slow Trains

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

The overpowering odors of China’s slow trains have gradually given way to the more antiseptic experience of high-speed rail travel.

Dining Cars: How an On-Board Snack Became a Guangdong Legend

They weren’t fancy. They weren’t even Cantonese. But for generations of Guangzhou-Kowloon through train riders, the fresh chicken legs served on board made the whole trip worth it.

Is Time Running Out for China’s Betel Nut Industry?

Addictive and carcinogenic, betel nuts have nevertheless managed to stay under the radar of Chinese regulators. That may be changing.

Cracking the Betel Nut Mystery

It used to be the most widely available and used addictive substance in the world. So how come it never caught on outside of Asia?

How the Chili Pepper Conquered China

From a salt substitute in China’s impoverished southwest to a fixture on tables nationwide, chili peppers have come a long way over the past 400 years.