Archive for July, 2011
Shaolin Kung Fu (少林功夫） Posted by Stephen on Jul 19, 2011
Shaolin kung fu or 少林功夫 (shàolín gōng fu) is China’s oldest institutionalized form of martial arts, and includes both internal (breathing and meditation) and external (physical activity) practices. For centuries, people from all over China (and the world) have flocked to the Shaolin Temple (少林寺) to study the esoteric practices of these monks. You’ll recognize them…
再见, 姚明！(Yao Ming’s NBA Retirement) Posted by Stephen on Jul 14, 2011
Father time is undefeated. Just ask Yao Ming’s legs, knees, feet and ankles. After two injury-plagued seasons in which the Chinese All-star Center played only 5 games, and underwent multiple leg and foot surgeries, Yao Ming (姚明) is finally calling it quits, and is reportedly retiring from the NBA. We will miss you, Yao, especially in…
The Beautiful Bones: Bone-Stretching (骨拉伸) Posted by Stephen on Jul 12, 2011
Bone-stretching or 骨拉伸 (Gǔ lā shēn) has become quite popular in China, with over a million people partaking in the excruciating (and unnecessary) surgery. Why? The never-ending quest for beauty and success, which by the Chinese standards, means you must be taller. Here’s an in-depth National Geographic documentary on bone stretching in China and Asia: Now…
Flying Acrobats (Video) Posted by sasha on Jul 12, 2011
After posting about Beijing’s Flying Acrobats show last night, I decided that words and pictures just weren’t enough to convey the sheer awesome-ness of this performance. As such, I’ve compiled a short highlight video as well… enjoy!
Flying Acrobats Show Posted by sasha on Jul 11, 2011
For tourists visiting Beijing, one of the most entertaining and interesting sights that you can see is the Flying Acrobats show. After you get your munch on at the Wangfujing Night Market (see Steve’s last post), head on over to the Chaoyang Theater (朝阳剧场 – chāo yáng jù chǎng). With two performances every night (5:15-6:25…
WangFuJing Snack Street (王府井小吃街) Posted by Stephen on Jul 7, 2011
If you are feeling adventurous, the WangfuJing Snack Street or 王府井小吃街 (wángfǔjǐngxiǎochījiē) in downtown Beijing is an place to try new and exotic foods. Located just northeast of Tiananmen and the Forbidden Palace, 王府井 is a bustling area of 老北京 (old Beijing) coupled with massive and newly constructed mega-shopping complexes and hotels. For most people…
Fireworks 烟火 (yàn huǒ) Posted by Stephen on Jul 5, 2011
Fireworks or 烟火 (yàn huǒ) are a Chinese invention and are synonymous with celebrations in Chinese culture. The earliest documentation of fireworks dates back to 7th century China where they were first used to frighten away evil spirits with their loud sound (鞭炮/鞭砲 biān pào) and to pray for happiness and prosperity. For any big holiday…