Musical diplomacy's perfect harmony

The world gets a nuclear accord, and Iran gets an orchestral visit that makes history. Chen Jie reports.

Thread that tugs at Chinese hearts

At the heart of the dance show Heartbeat of Home are, naturally, dancers, carried along by all manner of music, including Latin and Afro-Cuban. That much is obvious to anyone seeing the show, which is now touring China, but hiding in the wings is the story of the huge challenges that producers faced.

Passport of call

The recent relaxation of several countries' entry requirements for Chinese has produced tourism surges, especially in East and Southeast Asia, which remain the most popular destinations. Yang Feiyue and Erik Nilsson report.

Mountain views, tigers and village charm await in Anhui

While the magnificent peaks stretching endlessly and pretty views of the Huangshan Mountains attract many travelers, one can also enjoy ancient villages, rebuilt old houses and natural scenery by visiting the surrounding areas, such as Yixian county and scenic spots at the foot of the mountains.

Seeing the whole picture

British historian Rana Mitter's book reminds the world of China's sacrifices in WWII that are often ignored in Western narratives. Xing Yi reports.

Five books give glimpses of war

A portrait of alienation - and of fulfillment

Ding Jie's Snuggling is a powerful portrayal of certain aspects of Chinese life that are rarely seen in more popularized works of literature.

Exploding canvas

Nighttime Sakura, a gunpowder artwork, is perhaps the largest of its kind to have been attempted by Cai Guoqiang to date.

China's abstract pioneer Xu Dongdong returns to public life

The Chinese artist Xu Dongdong is back with a series of new artworks.

Detroit mural by Banksy for sale

A large street mural painted on a derelict Detroit auto factory by elusive British artist Banksy is going up for auction in Beverly Hills and could fetch up to $400,000 for a local nonprofit, Julien's Auctions said on Wednesday.

Bite-sized delights

After almost 20 years in the kitchen, dim-sum chef Eric Zeng believes the appearance of these Chinese bite-size snacks is very important, and he strives to present them in a way that is almost "superficial".

New Beijing eatery celebrates traditional tastes of Nanjing

Diners hoping to have a glimpse into old times in Nanjing should visit a new restaurant in the Wangfujing area of Beijing. Nanjing Impressions, a restaurant chain with outlets in Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin and Nanjing, has recently opened a branch there to emphasize its culinary origin and cultural legacy.