Longji titian—the “dragon’s spine rice terraces”—are one of the most impressive sights we ever found in China.
Category: Guangzhou
Watchman on the tower
The idea of the diaolou, some 1,800 of which are still standing, has been around for centuries, but most were built during the 1920s and 1930s. At that time, China was full of bandits and warlords, so many overseas Chinese sent money home to build fortresses for their families. The diaolou are built to withstand assault; with barred gates, iron shutters, and many stories of stone, they are imposing structures.
Where Red Meets White: A Chinese Wedding in 2020
Seven years ago Jarek and I were just married and living in Xi’an China as exchange students. One evening as we sat studying in our cramped, dusty apartment, we heard a knock at our door. We opened it to see a bright-eyed Chinese girl with beautiful high cheekbones and a contagious smile. “Hello! My name…
Camping with Chinese Characteristics
Not your usual “Way out West” experience.
Home: My toilet, the robots, and that blasted water show
Have you ever moved somewhere new, gone on vacation, and returned only to find your home feels more “home-like” than ever? Something magical happens when you go home. All of the sudden, the things that were once so unfamiliar, and perhaps even strange, become beautiful reminders that things are back to normal. Of course, for…
Welcome to the world, Diplo-baby
Dear Little One, People might have thought your dad and I were crazy to have you when we did. When I got pregnant with you, I was in the final year of my master’s degree, your dad had just started his new job, and we were about to move to China. Maybe we were a…
Dragon Boating
There is a holiday in China called Dragon Boat Festival. Particularly in South China, it is celebrated (how else?) with Dragon Boat Races. It’s exciting and impressive to watch, and even more fun to do… or so I thought.