American pop rock band OneRepublic performed one of their most famous hits during the 2025 Spring Festival Gala which was broadcast live on Tuesday.
From the stage of one the gala's sub-venues in Wuhan of central China, the American band delivered a passionate performance of their popular single 'Counting Stars' in front of the city's Yellow Crane Tower.
The group previously shared their excitement at being a part of the gala, which is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's most-watched annual TV program. The group also extended Chinese New Year wishes to all the Chinese people in a post on their official account on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.
The annual gala, also known as "Chunwan", was first broadcast in 1983 and is seen as a major cultural symbol for Spring Festival celebrations in China. The hours-long television extravaganza attracts over a billion views every year.
The 2025 Spring Festival, or the Chinese New Year, falls on Wednesday this year, ushering in the Year of the Snake.
American band OneRepublic performs on 2025 Spring Festival Gala
American band OneRepublic performs on 2025 Spring Festival Gala
American band OneRepublic performs on 2025 Spring Festival Gala
China's first domestically-built cruise ship, Adora Magic City, has gained traction among consumers with a new vacation experience since its sail last year, while stimulating spending across various sectors from tourism and hospitality to retail and entertainment.
With 323.6 meters in length and 2,125 rooms, the cruise ship can accommodate up to 5,246 passengers at full capacity. The ship also boasts 26 restaurants and bars, offering diverse culinary options from Chinese dishes to Western steaks, Italian pizza, and German beer.
"We drove here from Hangzhou, directly to the dock in Shanghai and boarded the cruise. This one is relatively new, and its dining options are more suited to Chinese tastes," said a tourist.
"We've brought parents and children along with us on this journey. Cruises are very convenient since meals and accommodations are all included, making it hassle-free," said another tourist.
The cruise ship also offers a variety of leisure options, including theatrical performances, a shopping plaza, an art gallery, and a water park, making it a destination for entertainment and family-friendly fun.
The cruise ship started its commercial maiden voyage on Jan 1, 2024. Since then, it has driven consumption, fostered the cruise economy's ecosystem development, and boosted collaboration within the industry.
"Data from the first quarter of this year shows that the cruise tourism market is still prosperous. We are seeing high occupancy rates. Our industry system is gradually taking shape, encompassing independent design, construction, supply, and operation. Particularly, on the operational side, we have achieved a nearly 100-percent local procurement," said Gu Pengcheng, vice president of Adora Cruise.
The cruise ship also drew more overseas tourists, bringing them to explore Shanghai's iconic landmarks, such as the Yuyuan Garden and the Bund.
In the first quarter of 2025, data showed that Shanghai's border and inspection station inspected more than 180 cruises and 510,000 passengers.
China's first domestically-built cruise ship becomes consumer favorite
