The Chinese cinema: a dynamic centennial art

It seems that it's been a long time since Chinese movies were screened in the West in small dark rooms reserved for art and independent films. Today, Chinese cinema is everywhere and is amassing awards as directors find themselves in the spotlight of the international scene. Furthermore, China offers a wealth of talent just waiting to be discovered. The Chinese film market seems to still have a bright future.

The Iberia Centre for Contemporary Art transcends borders

The 798 Arts Centre in Dashanzi, in north-east Beijing, recently added a newcomer to its list: the Iberia Centre for Contemporary Art. It opened in mid-April at the close of the "Year of Spain" in China, this space has serious potential.

July 12th: Ideas of the Weekend

Beijing provides yet another lively weekend. For those who are interested in knowing more about the pollution situation, do not miss the Vance Wagner's conference on Saturday evening. On the other hand, if you prefer to escape from the capital's foul air, try out the Great Wall hike organized by Beijinghikers. And last but not least, have fun while helping the Earthquake victims at i-ultra's charity party.

July 5th: Ideas for the weekend

This Friday July 4th, USA celebrates their Independence Day. Lush and The Beach are two of the bars where it is possible to join the festivity. Regarding music, the city also offers us numerous performances by local and foreign groups. Do not miss them!

“Paper”modernizes Chinese cuisine

Located near the Drum Tower, in north-west Beijing, Paper is a restaurant with contemporary Chinese cuisine. "Paper's" formula is to combine simple and organic ingredients in a clean environment.

Tian Di Yi Jia, an imperial kitchen

Right next to the Forbidden City, there is a restaurant that offers imperial cuisine: Tian Di Yi Jia. Its refinement and simplicity combine with the richness of its dishes to make it a privileged place.

Zhang Tong Lu, the Revolutionary cloisonné master

Zhang Tong Lu is a master cloisonné craftsman. A profession that this retired Beijing local began practicing by chance and by passion for drawing and painting. More than 50 years later, he is one of the last inheritors of this traditional Chinese art.

Wang Xiao Fei, a sparkling master lacquerer

Wang Xiao Fei has been a master lacquerer for the past 20 years. At the head of a team of several dozen people, this 40 year old Beijing local explains the different stages of this millennial traditional art.

The new Qianmen district shows off

Located just south of Tiananmen Square, the newly renovated Qianmen district was inaugurated on the eve of the Beijing Olympics. It was supposed to have a face-lift to bring back a certain cachet; the result is unfortunately a little disappointing.

After years of renovation, the Imperial College of Beijing passes the test with flying colors

Closed for almost two years because of renovations, the Imperial College, or Guozijian, reopened its doors last month. Located in north-east Beijing, the discreet and modest-sized building is of great importance to Chinese history.

The Club “The Boat” docks in Beijing

Opened in April, "The Boat" is Beijing's only nightclub on water. Previously an Italian restaurant, the place was completely renovated and could become a regular nightlife rendezvous with the return of warm weather.

Helen Feng, the Queen of Beijing Rock Scene

Helen Feng is a 29 year-old American national born in China who has been living in Beijing for the last 6 years. Currently DJ for 88.7 Hit FM, Feng is also the lead singer of "Pet conspiracy", an electro-clash band, and "Ziyo", a rock-band. The latter has released their first EP (Extended Play) in January which is distributed by Warner in Beijing and other Chinese cities.

Alain Courbe: “It could be my last chance to see judo at the Olympic Games”

Alain Courbe is a professor of judo in Le Mans, France. At 63 years old, he comes to Beijing for the first time to attend three days of judo competitions and shares his impressions with us.

The father of the Fuwa opens a museum in Beijing

After four years of work, the art museum of Han Meilin opened in late June on Beijing east side. This is the second museum, the first one being in Hangzhou, for this Chinese who is better known for creating the five 2008 Olympic Games mascots. But Han Meilin is also an artist who juggles between sculptures, ceramics, drawings and calligraphies.

The Regent Beijing, a palace combining elegance and modernism

Located between Wangfujing and the Forbidden City, The Regent Beijing opened its doors a year and a half ago. Its decor, its quality of service and its location makes it one of the best five-star hotels in Beijing.

Sowing the seeds of a Watermelon festival

The 20^th Beijing Watermelon Festival ended in early June in Beijing's southern Daxing district, an annual celebration that shows off the summer fruit and all other cucurbits.

Houhai is organising its first dragon boat race

The Dragon Boat Festival or Duanwujie was on June 8^th this year. To celebrate, the Xicheng District Sports Office organized dragon boat races for the employees of several Beijing companies at Houhai's Sailing Club. It gave the opportunity to discover this traditional sport in the heart of the capital.

Nanshan, an international ski resort

About sixty kilometers from Beijing, you can find Nanshan, one of the largest ski resorts in northern China. If the hills cannot be compared to European mountains, Nanshan remains the perfect place to indulge in winter sports.