The Context

Latest Episodes:

Siku Quanshu: Lost and Bound Jan 30, 2026

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Today, we’ll talk about a digital project that recounts the creation of the most comprehensive book collection in Chinese history and the efforts to protect it from the ravages of war.

Tang Architecture: Modern Science Illuminates Ancient Craftsmanship (II) Jan 27, 2026

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Today, we’ll continue to explore modern scientific advances and ongoing research that deepen understanding of Tang-era structures, emphasizing the importance of sustained study and cultural heritage preservation.

Tang Architecture: Modern Science Illuminates Ancient Craftsmanship (I) Jan 20, 2026

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In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we’ll talk about the historic quest to rediscover and preserve China’s Tang Dynasty wooden architecture, highlighting key discoveries, early investigations, and the challenges posed by time and restoration.

A County’s Pride: Discovering Liao-Era Architectural Masterpiece (II) Jan 13, 2026

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In this second half of our feature on Liao-era architecture, we’ll uncover how the lesser-known Gaoyuan Temple and other Liao structures embody cultural continuity, meticulous craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of China’s architectural heritage.

A County’s Pride: Discovering Liao-Era Architectural Masterpiece (I) Jan 06, 2026

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In the first installment of what will be a two-part feature, we’ll talk about how two very distinct Liao-era temples reveal the ingenuity, grandeur, and spiritual vision of ancient Chinese wooden architecture.

Jiaohe Ruins: The Carved City Dec 30, 2025

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Today, we’ll talk about one of the world’s most perfectly preserved settlements, which offers valuable insights into ancient urban planning, construction techniques and the vibrant religious and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road.

Shifting Targets: The Evolution of Archery Rites in Ancient China Dec 23, 2025

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Today, we’ll talk about the evolution of archery rites in ancient China that became understood through a bronze artifact in the shape of an arrow-pierced turtle, highlighting how archery transformed from a martial art essential for kings into a politically significant ritual.

Houguan Culture: Grounds for Genius Dec 16, 2025

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Today, we’ll talk about how a tradition of learning and openness in an ancient county in Fuzhou helped to shape the ideas of key figures in the development of education in modern China.

Xiao Qian: Across Frontlines and Cultures Dec 12, 2025

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Today, we’ll talk about the life of Xiao Qian, a Chinese writer, war correspondent, translator and cultural ambassador whose words bridged China and the world across wars, revolutions, and a century of change.

Empire in Exile: Rediscovering Southern Song Burials Dec 09, 2025

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Today, we’ll talk about one of the most intriguing archaeological discoveries in recent Chinese history – the long-lost imperial tombs of the Southern Song dynasty, hidden for centuries beneath quiet tea fields in Zhejiang Province.

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