Innovation, tradition and heritage are shaping the Chinese mainland’s next chapter, and three stories from beauty, culture, and history show how.
Chinese press-on nails go global
In Donghai County in Jiangsu and Guangzhou in the Chinese mainland, entrepreneurs are turning press-on nails from a DIY alternative into a global beauty staple. In 2024 alone, nearly 80 million pairs were shipped abroad, and related TikTok videos have amassed over 8 billion views. It’s proof that design innovation plus savvy social media strategies can ignite a worldwide trend.
Chagan Lake’s winter fishing economy
At Chagan Lake in the Chinese mainland’s northeast, a centuries-old winter fishing tradition has become a powerful economic engine. Despite sub-zero temperatures, hundreds of fishermen drill holes in the ice to harvest carp and whitefish that feed local restaurants and attract tourists. Together, these activities generate millions of dollars each season, blending cultural heritage with modern enterprise.
Luoyang’s enduring elegance
Further south in Henan Province, Luoyang marks the eastern gateway of the ancient Silk Road and hosts the World Heritage site of the Longmen Grottoes. Cutting-edge 3D scanning technology is bringing these millennia-old carvings to life, while master craftsman Zhang Yipeng revives Tang Sancai pottery, merging ancient art with contemporary design.
These three snapshots show how the Chinese mainland is weaving its rich past into the fabric of a dynamic, globally connected future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
