Author: Me Lan

Books and libraries have played an essential role in the intellectual and cultural life of societies across the world. In Imperial China, where Confucianism was the cornerstone of governance and scholarship, books were regarded as valuable treasures, and libraries were institutions of immense significance. For the royal family, including emperors, empresses, princes, and high-ranking officials,

Ceramic artifacts have played a vital role in the cultural, artistic, and ceremonial life of China for over two millennia. In the context of the imperial palaces, these objects were not only utilitarian but also held profound symbolic significance. The ceramic items in the imperial palaces, including vases, pots, tea sets, and decorative figures, were

The management of personnel and servants within the Imperial Palaces of China was a complex and highly structured process, reflecting the hierarchical nature of the Chinese imperial system. The emperor’s court was not just a political center, but also a microcosm of Chinese society, where roles, responsibilities, and duties were clearly defined, and strict hierarchies

The imperial palaces of China, particularly the Forbidden City, were not only the center of political and cultural life but also places where laws were formulated, interpreted, and enforced. Throughout the history of the Chinese Empire, the emperor held absolute power, often viewed as the “Son of Heaven” with the divine right to rule. The

The imperial palaces of China, particularly the Forbidden City, are not only known for their architectural grandeur and political significance, but also for the many myths, legends, and supernatural stories that have surrounded them throughout history. These legends, some dating back to ancient times, have become an integral part of the cultural fabric of China,

Chinese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its diversity, rich flavors, and deep cultural significance. The evolution of this culinary tradition is closely linked to China’s long history, which includes a series of festivals and celebrations that play a major role in the country’s food culture. Each of these festivals not only marks a specific event

Chinese cuisine is an intricate, rich, and diverse field of culinary traditions that has been developed and refined for thousands of years. It is deeply intertwined with the philosophy and principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which emphasize balance, harmony, and holistic well-being. One of the most fundamental concepts in Chinese medicine and cuisine is the

As the winter season arrives in China, the chilly winds and cold temperatures call for comforting, warming meals that not only nourish the body but also soothe the soul. Chinese winter cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s ancient culinary traditions, which focus on balancing the body’s internal heat with the environment. The winter months

Yangzhou Fried Rice, known as Yangzhou Chao Fan (扬州炒饭) in Chinese, is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Chinese cuisine. Its origins, rich flavor, and varied ingredients have made it a staple of both traditional and modern Chinese dining. The dish is renowned not only in China but across the world, and

Hotpot, known as huo guo (火锅) in Mandarin, is one of the most beloved and communal meals in Chinese cuisine. Originating from the Sichuan province in southwestern China, Sichuan Mala Hotpot (Mala Huoguo) has gained widespread popularity due to its bold, fiery, and numbing flavors. What sets it apart from other hotpot styles is the