In Episode 12 of Meet China, we explore three stories that blend innovation, tradition, and travel across the Chinese mainland.
Silver Economy: A Golden Opportunity
With an aging demographic reshaping markets, the Chinese mainland's silver economy is booming. Reporter Xu Yi takes us inside high-tech retirement communities where robots assist daily chores and seniors test smart wearables. From VR therapy rooms to aging simulation suits, products and services are designed to empower older adults and spark new business models.
As seniors take center stage, companies are finding golden opportunities in health tech, lifestyle design, and community care—one sign that living longer can also mean living smarter.
Tofu: From Hubei Fields to Global Plates
In Shipai Town, Hubei Province, tofu is more than a staple—it's a way of life. Reporter Morag Hobbs guides us through alleyways filled with steaming vats and wooden presses. Here, almost every household transforms small soybeans into silky tofu, preserving techniques passed down for generations.
As tofu journeys beyond local markets, it becomes a symbol of cultural heritage and culinary diplomacy, finding its way onto tables across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Along the Yangtze's banks, we glimpse Hubei's lush landscapes, where food traditions and natural beauty converge.
Wenyu Villa: Reimagining Life 500 Years Ago
Tucked in Huangshan's misty mountains, Wenyu Villa is a living canvas of history. Owner Yu Jianming blends art, architecture, and hospitality to revive a 500-year-old estate into a boutique hotel and cultural hub.
Through meticulous restoration, guests experience classic Ming-era design alongside modern comforts. From calligraphy workshops to garden tours, Wenyu Villa bridges past and present, offering travelers a serene retreat that honors tradition while celebrating innovation.
From smart senior living to time-honored tofu craft and heritage restoration, these stories highlight how the Chinese mainland blends tradition and innovation. Which discovery inspires you most?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
