When you think of the word, culture, what comes to mind? For some, it means identity. Others who accept Henry Kissinger's argument, that China finds exceptionalism in culture while America pursues 'freedom' and 'human rights' with missionary zeal, culture defines values. When I think of Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, (with due respect of course) I think of pockets of Chinese … [Read more...] about Chinese Folk Dance in Silicon Valley
culture
Interesting encounters in Japan
My strategy for fighting jet lag returning from Asia is to have a large breakfast followed by a large lunch on the departure date. Minimal fluid around lunch and depart in the afternoon. Sleep little the night before. And then sleep all the way in a window seat on the plane. On numerous occasions, I managed to be out before take off and waking up as the plane approaches San … [Read more...] about Interesting encounters in Japan
Hunanese vs Hakka
Does all Chinese dialect group have the same representation in politics historically? The question first appeared to me when I read Li Guangyao's 李光耀(Lee Kuan Yew) autobiography, The Singapore Story and From Third World to First: The Singapore Story. He mentioned that Hakka is disproportionately represented in politics in Singapore and other Chinese communities. At the writing … [Read more...] about Hunanese vs Hakka
Article uses Kaifeng Jews to put China down
A story published a few days ago in the LA Times talked about an Israeli organization, Shavei Israel, which helped a few Keifeng Jews to make Aliyah (immigrate to Israel). It quoted a few Kaifeng Jews having made the trip as saying how Israel is superior to China. Consider the title of the article: … [Read more...] about Article uses Kaifeng Jews to put China down
Along the River During the Qingming Festival (Digital Version)
This might be old news to some (as the original painting was done during the Song Dynasty) but a digital version was created for the China pavilion during the Shanghai Expo 2010. After the expo it was displayed from November 9 to November 29, 2010 and is currently in Taipei from July 1 to October 4, 2011. This has always been one of my favourite painting so I think I will … [Read more...] about Along the River During the Qingming Festival (Digital Version)