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Why Northeast China’s Forgotten Japanese Shrines Still Matter

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

The few colonial-era temples still standing in the region should be protected and preserved, not left to rot.

The Railway Relics of the Russo-Japanese War

Scattered along the route of the old South Manchuria Railway are traces of the region’s violent past.

How the South Manchuria Railway Shaped Modern China

The line played a key role in the early 20th century contest between China, Russia, and Japan for dominance over Northeast Asia.

On the Trail of Sichuan’s Catholic Past

The remote southwestern province is home to some of China’s oldest and most well-preserved Catholic churches.

The Last Relics of Xinjiang’s Fallen Dynasties

In China’s far northwest, the last vestiges of the region’s Mongol and Manchu conquerors go largely ignored.

Chasing the Fire-Worshippers of Tashkurgan

In far western China, the Tajik people still practice customs with roots in one of the world’s oldest religions.

The Waning History of Russians in Xinjiang

Pockets of Russians in China’s far northwest are testament to the region’s turbulent military history.

Unearthing the Islamic Relics of China’s Medieval Port City

In Quanzhou, one of China’s most cosmopolitan cities, wealthy Muslim traders once built spectacular mosques.

The Rich Islamic History of China’s Coastal Trading Hub

Fuzhou Mosque reveals the faded stories of the Muslim community in China’s coastal province.

How the ‘Social Shake’ Became China’s Latest Dance Craze

Internet livestreamers are going gaga for a song known mostly for its absurd, but infectious, dance moves.

A Northern Chinese Rail Hub’s Legacy of Russian Architecture

In the absence of government funding and expert laborers, Qiqihar and Zhalantun are struggling to preserve their Russian-influenced heritage.

The Fast-Fading Memories of Harbin’s Migrant History

A stream of Russian refugees once made the far-flung northeastern city their home, but now only a handful of descendants remain to tell their stories.

Orthodox Churches, Unorthodox Histories in China’s Far Northeast

In icy Harbin, a smattering of crumbling onion domes unmasks the city’s past life as a melting pot of European, Russian, and Chinese culture.

The 100-year History of Northeast China’s Frontier Railway

The Russian-built China Eastern Railway, once the most advanced transport route in the world, has now fallen on hard times.