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As thousands of lanterns glow across China this week, a vibrant celebration of tradition is taking center stage. The annual Lantern Festival isn’t just about dazzling displays—it’s fueling a cultural revival where ancient meets modern.
A Fusion of Past and Present
From bustling cities to historic towns, streets are filled with locals sporting Hanfu—traditional Chinese attire—as they participate in folk dances, riddles, and tea ceremonies. This isn’t your grandma’s history lesson: young influencers are TikTok-ing their Hanfu looks, blending silk robes with sneakers.
Hanfu: More Than a Trend
The Hanfu market is booming, set to hit 24.18 billion yuan by 2027. But it’s not just fashion; it’s a movement. \"Wearing Hanfu connects me to stories older than Netflix dramas,\" says 22-year-old Shanghai student Li Mei. Entrepreneurs are cashing in, with themed cafes and photo shoots driving a nostalgia-powered economy.
Behind the Festivities
CGTN’s Michael Wang and Louisa Lee explore how cities like Xi’an and Hangzhou are reinventing traditions—think augmented reality lantern shows and DIY mooncake workshops. The takeaway? China’s youth are rewriting cultural playbooks while honoring their roots.
For travelers, it’s prime time to witness this blend of heritage and innovation. Pro tip: Visit Pingyao’s ancient walls at sunset—it’s basically Instagram gold.
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