Xiamen, a city of east China's Fujian Province, has attracted young people from China's Taiwan region to pursue their dreams after years of fostering cross-Strait integration. Among these young people is Lin Chun-hsuan, who decided to embrace this year's Spring Festival in Xiamen and immersed herself in the rich Minnan (southern Fujian) culture and Chinese New Year festive atmosphere.
Born in the Taiwan region and growing up in Xiamen, Lin has been learning dance since she was a child. Now, she works as a dance teacher for children. In her mind, she has already been adapted and integrated into the city of Xiamen.
In Lin's spare time, she loves wandering through Xiamen's streets and alleys to discover and appreciate the beauty around her.
One of Lin's favorite spots in Xiamen is Shapowei, a vibrant area that has become a popular destination for young people. Once a fishing port, Shapowei now blends its historical charm with modern elements. Lin said the area also serves as a vivid reminder of the shared roots between the cultures of Taiwan and the mainland.
Eager to delve deeper into Minnan culture, Lin also went to experience the traditional Fujian glove puppetry, a national intangible cultural heritage.
Although it looks simple, the traditional glove puppetry is definitely not easy to perform, as it takes so much practice for performers, which from Lin's perspective is truly a case of "a minute on stage takes 10 years of practice."
For Lin, Chinese New Year is more than just about cultural experiences. It is also about indulging in the flavors of her second home of Xiamen. She led the way to the local bustling street food market of Bashi which houses a wide variety of seafood, fresh fruit and authentic Minnan snacks.
"In these years in Xiamen, I've gained far more than just these experiences. I've also made friends from all corners of the world. I feel Xiamen is very inclusive. People from everywhere can find their direction and realize their dreams here. With family and friends by my side, I don't feel lonely at all in Xiamen. I think I will settle down here, work hard, and build a life full of happiness," said Lin.
Taiwan youth embraces Spring Festival in Xiamen with traditional culture
China's manned deep-sea submersible Jiaolong has completed a significant upgrade and started underwater trials, according to the country's Ministry of Natural Resources.
The China-made underwater ship, named after a mythical sea dragon, is capable of diving to depths exceeding 7,000 meters. It has completed over 300 dives since its maiden mission in August 2009 and explored waters in the Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean.
This latest upgrade, which began in November last year, aims to enhance its capabilities and support more frequent deep-sea missions.
According to the National Deep Sea Base Management Center, the upgrade focuses on critical components like the propulsion system and battery packs.
The propulsion system has been adjusted structurally to increase the speed from 2.5 to over three nautical miles per hour, with the replacement of three-bladed propellers with more efficient four-bladed versions.
The zinc-silver battery pack has been replaced with high-energy-density flexible lithium battery pack, which aims to improve the power reserve and reduce diving costs.
The submersible's observation capabilities have also been enhanced. An array of cameras, including high-definition video cameras and powerful lighting systems, are equipped to facilitate underwater exploration and resource assessment.
Further upgrades include two more LED light arrays at the front and three more lights at the rear and bottom, expanding the submersible's detection range and improving its ability to locate specific targets.
"This upgrade prioritizes enhancing our operational tools. We've upgraded the electrical systems, propulsion, mechanical components, observation, and communications equipment to cater to the needs of deep-sea exploration and improve operational efficiency," said Qi Haibin, a submersible pilot.
Following the underwater trials to test its stability, Jiaolong will undergo sea trials in the South China Sea in March to validate its enhanced capabilities.
"Jiaolong will be sent to the South China Sea to conduct deep-sea equipment verification. After completing the process, there will be extensive missions ahead of us," Qi said.
The submersible is scheduled for further scientific expeditions in the Pacific and Indian Oceans later this year.
China's manned deep-sea submersible completes major upgrade, prepares for exploration
