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Historical photograph of a large Taishanese family in front of iconic diaolou towers, showcased at Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum.

Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Taishan Travel Guides

5 Floors, Countless Stories: Exploring the Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum

Step into the Taishan Overseas Chinese Culture Museum, and you’ll find more than just artifacts—you’ll find pieces of your story. From the tearful goodbyes at Guanghai Port to the inspiring legacy of the Sunning Railway, this museum brings to life the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of the Taishanese diaspora. Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots…

BySteven2 days ago0Comments

A cheerful family selfie with a father, mother, and young daughter at an event. The background features a colorful

Cities of Wuyi Emigration Stories Wuyi Region Overview

Roots of China: 42 Inspiring Stories from 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey we’ve shared through Roots of China. What began as a dream years ago has blossomed into a vibrant space where stories of migration, resilience, and heritage come to life. From the iconic Diaolou towers of Kaiping to the heartfelt tale of a…

ByStevenJanuary 1, 20250Comments

A craftsman weaving the Chinese surname "Wang" into a traditional textile on a loom, showcasing heritage artistry.

Chinese Surnames Culture and Traditions

Chinese Surnames: Weaving Threads of Ancestry and Identity

What’s in a name? For many of us, a surname isn’t just a label—it’s a doorway to the past, a story waiting to be uncovered.

ByStevenDecember 29, 20240Comments

Women wearing traditional Han Chinese garments celebrating Lunar New Year with sparklers, showcasing the beauty of Chinese New Year clothes.

Culture and Traditions

Elegance and Tradition: Showcasing Chinese New Year Clothes

Chinese New Year is more than just a time for family and feasts—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and the traditions passed down through generations. One of the most striking aspects of this festival is the clothing worn, from the elegant qipao to the symbolic use of red and gold. In this episode, we uncover…

ByStevenDecember 23, 20240Comments

Traditional Lunar New Year craft of writing spring couplets with a brush on red paper, featuring intricate dragon patterns and ink tools

Artisans and Crafts Culture and Traditions

10 Beloved Lunar New Year Crafts That Keep Traditions Alive

Lunar New Year crafts like lanterns, red envelopes, and paper cuttings are more than festive decorations—they are timeless traditions that connect generations, reflect regional diversity, and tell stories of Chinese culture. Explore their history, symbolism, and enduring significance in this rich cultural narrative.

ByStevenDecember 21, 20240Comments

Traditional Chinese New Year celebration with an elderly man in red attire standing under red lanterns and Spring Festival couplets.

Culture and Traditions

Chinese New Year Traditions: A Complete Guide to Celebrations, Customs, and Modern Adaptations

Discover the rich tapestry of Chinese New Year traditions in this comprehensive guide. From the festival’s ancient origins and symbolic rituals to vibrant decorations, traditional foods, and modern adaptations, explore how this cultural celebration continues to unite families and communities worldwide. Whether it’s the wisdom of the Year of the Snake or the joy of…

ByStevenDecember 18, 20240Comments

Ian Tham and his long-lost cousins search through the ruins of an old house in the Chan ancestral village of Lianjiangli, looking for artifacts to take back as family mementos.

Emigration Stories

THE CIRCLE OF LIFE – A GRANDSON OF EMIGRANTS RETURNS TO FIND HIS ROOTS AFTER 120 YEARS

After over a century of migration, spanning continents and generations, Ian Tham embarks on a heartfelt journey to rediscover his ancestral roots in China. From Kaiping to Enping, long-lost villages and family connections are brought back to life, offering a powerful reflection on heritage, identity, and the resilience of family ties.

ByGuest AuthorDecember 17, 20240Comments

Chinese characters Huang (黄) and Wang (王) with romanized spellings Wong and Ong, representing the Wong surname origin and meaning.

Chinese Surnames

The Wong Surname: Tracing Its Noble Origins and Global Legacy

The **Wong surname** is one of the most widely recognized and historically significant names in Chinese culture. With origins rooted in ancient dynasties, the name reflects both nobility and prosperity. Derived from the characters **黄 (Huang)** and **王 (Wang)**, the **Wong surname meaning** is deeply connected to values such as leadership, authority, and success. This…

ByStevenDecember 13, 20240Comments

Historic photo of Beijie Station, a key stop on the Sunning Railway in Guangdong, China, showcasing its clock tower and European-style architecture.

Cities of Wuyi Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Taishan

Sunning Railway: Uniting Taishan’s Overseas Chinese and Transforming a Nation

The Sunning Railway (新宁铁路), built in the early 20th century by Taishan’s overseas Chinese community, stands as a remarkable testament to unity and ambition. Spanning 138 kilometers, this railway connected remote villages to bustling markets, transforming Taishan into an economic and cultural hub. Led by visionary Chen Yixi, who rose from humble beginnings to master…

ByStevenDecember 9, 20240Comments

Full-size replica boat at Taishan Haikou Bu, a historical departure port for Siyi migrants.

Cities of Wuyi Historical Landmark Taishan

Taishan Haikou Port Museum: Meet China’s Migrant Past

Nestled at the confluence of the Datong (大同) and Duanfen (端芬) Rivers, the Haikou Port Museum in Haikou Bu (海口埠) stands as a living record of China’s overseas migration story. Here, original qiaopi (侨批) documents and restored streetscapes bring to life the resilience, family ties, and global aspirations that defined generations of Guangfu (广府) travelers.…

ByStevenDecember 8, 20240Comments

Green graphic with the Chinese character 涂 (Twu), representing the Twu surname.

Chinese Surnames

From Tu Shan to the World: The Twu Surname Legacy

From Tu Shan to the World: The Twu Surname’s Legacy” explores the rich heritage, cultural impact, and global journey of the Twu (涂) surname. From its legendary connection to Emperor Yu the Great and the Tu Shan clan to its modern presence in diaspora communities across Southeast Asia and beyond, the Twu name represents resilience,…

ByStevenDecember 5, 20240Comments

Iconic church in Chikan, showcasing historical architecture

Cities of Wuyi Historical Landmark Kaiping

Chikan Town: The Untold Story

Discover how Chikan Town, with its historic qilou and diaolou structures, reflects the lasting impact of migration on Chinese culture. Learn about the town’s origins, shaped by the Opium Wars, famine, and the powerful role of family networks in overseas migration.

ByStevenDecember 5, 20240Comments

Lighting incense sticks from a candle flame during modern ancestor worship practices.

Culture and Traditions

Ancestor Worship in Diaspora Communities

Join the journey of Chinese diaspora communities as they adapt ancestor worship for modern life, blending digital innovations with cherished traditions.

ByStevenDecember 2, 20240Comments

Woman lighting incense sticks at a modern ancestor worship altar with fruit and floral decorations.

Culture and Traditions

Modern Ancestor Worship Practices

Explore the evolving landscape of modern ancestor worship practices in China. From virtual memorial platforms to eco-friendly alternatives, discover how traditions are adapting to urbanization, technological advancements, and generational shifts. Learn how both mainland China and the Chinese diaspora continue to honor their ancestors while preserving cultural identity and familial bonds. This article delves into…

ByStevenNovember 30, 20240Comments

Page from a traditional Chinese genealogy book, or zupu, detailing family lineage and ancestral records

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

Digital Tools for Chinese Genealogy: Ueng Family History

Discover the rich history and traditions of the Ueng surname, from ancestral rituals and migration stories to modern tools like digital genealogy platforms. Learn how Ueng families worldwide preserve their heritage, blending ancient customs with contemporary practices to honor their legacy.

ByStevenNovember 30, 20240Comments

Chinese calligraphy showcasing various forms of the Ueng (翁) surname, highlighting its historical and cultural significance

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

The Ueng Surname: Tracing Family History and Legacy

The Ueng surname, with its roots in the Chinese character 黃 (Huang), has a long and diverse history, evolving through various dialects and regions. This article explores the linguistic journey of the Ueng surname, its cultural adaptations across the globe, and how families bearing the name preserve their heritage. From ancestral worship and clan associations…

ByStevenNovember 29, 20240Comments

A traditional Chinese ink painting depicting Ueng (翁), symbolized by an old fisherman in a bamboo hat and raincoat (蓑笠翁), fishing on a serene river surrounded by misty mountains.

Chinese Surnames Ueng (翁)

The Ueng (翁) Surname: Exploring a Rich Legacy of History and Culture

The Ueng (翁) surname carries a rich legacy rooted in Chinese history, symbolizing wisdom, longevity, and resilience. Derived from the romanization of *Wēng*, the surname reflects the cultural heritage of Chinese migrants, especially those who settled overseas. With ties to literature, art, and Confucian ideals, Ueng remains a symbol of family unity and respect. Whether…

ByStevenNovember 28, 20240Comments

Chikan Historical Town's tram passing by Qilou-style buildings in Guangdong, China.

Artisans and Crafts Cities of Wuyi Culture and Traditions Enping Kaiping Taishan Xinhui

Qílóu Architecture in Wuyi: Cultural Fusion and Resilience

Discover Qílóu Architecture in Wuyi—a stunning mix of Chinese, Southeast Asian, and European styles. These historic arcade buildings reflect cultural fusion, resilience, and the legacy of the Chinese diaspora

ByStevenNovember 25, 20240Comments

Sunset view over the Tanjiang River, an important rivier in Wuyi, with a modern outdoor seating area.

Artisans and Crafts Cities of Wuyi Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Enping Heshan Jiangmen Kaiping Taishan Xinhui

Roots of Legacy: Wuyi Impact & Future Generations

rom the bustling streets of California during the Gold Rush to the ports of Southeast Asia, Wuyi emigrants left their mark on the world. Their journeys not only transformed their lives but also fueled economic resilience and cultural preservation in their hometowns—Kaiping, Xinhui, Enping, Heshan, and Taishan. Through hard work, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial spirit, these…

ByStevenNovember 18, 20240Comments

Historic architecture of Chikan Town, Guangdong, China, with vintage buildings and traditional Chinese gondolas along the river.

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Kaiping Travel Guides Wuyi Region Overview

Kaiping Diaolou: China’s UNESCO Heritage Towers

Discover the rich stories behind Kaiping’s diaolou towers in our latest podcast! These unique, fortified towers are a blend of Chinese and Western design, built for protection and family honor. Dive into tales of resilience, global connections, and cultural identity, all embodied within these fascinating structures. Perfect for history enthusiasts and heritage explorers alike! …

ByStevenNovember 16, 20240Comments

Kaiping Diaolou and traditional Chinese building by the river under a clear blue sky.

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Historical Landmark

Roots of Legacy: Honoring the Enduring Heritage of Wuyi Emigrants

Discover the profound stories of the Wuyi (五邑) emigrants whose resilience and contributions have shaped both their adopted communities and their homeland. From the heartfelt Qiaopi letters (侨批) that connected families across oceans to the towering Kaiping Diaolou that symbolize cultural fusion, the legacy of Wuyi emigrants is a testament to courage, adaptation, and enduring…

ByStevenNovember 14, 20240Comments

Kaiping Fengcai Tang with intricate architecture blending Chinese and Western styles

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Historical Landmark

Wuyi Migration Journey: The Roots of Legacy in the Siyi Region

Discover the rich migration history of China’s Wuyi region, where generations of families from Kaiping, Xinhui, Enping, Heshan, and Taishan embarked on journeys to Southeast Asia, North America, and beyond. Explore the cultural legacy, resilience, and impact of these migrants as they built communities, preserved heritage, and transformed lives across the globe. From the iconic…

ByStevenNovember 13, 20240Comments

Young girl receiving face paint in preparation for the traditional Piaose parade in Taishan.

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Taishan Travel Guides

Exploring Taishan: The First Home of Overseas Chinese

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Taishan (台山), known as the “First Home of Overseas Chinese” in Guangdong, China. From historic Diaolou towers to bustling festivals and authentic cuisine, Taishan offers a unique window into the legacy of Chinese migration and cultural fusion. At Roots of China, we craft immersive journeys that go…

ByStevenNovember 12, 20240Comments

Map of the Wuyi region in Guangdong, China, highlighting Siyi to Wuyi cultural transformation

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Enping Historical Landmark Kaiping Taishan Travel Guides Xinhui

Siyi to Wuyi: A Journey of Transformation and Heritage

Originally comprising only four counties—Kaiping, Xinhui, Taishan, and Enping—the region now known as Wuyi expanded in 1983 with the addition of Heshan, blending historical roots with industrial growth. Join us as we explore Wuyi’s unique journey, from its legacy as the ‘hometown of overseas Chinese’ to its role in the Greater Bay Area, where tradition…

ByStevenNovember 11, 20240Comments

Statue of Liang Qichao in Xinhui with a historical pagoda in the background.

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Historical Landmark Travel Guides Xinhui

Xinhui’s (新会) Contributions to Chinese Culture and History

Discover Xinhui (新会), the cultural gem of Guangdong’s Siyi region, famous for its rich heritage, the centuries-old chenpi (陈皮) industry, and its influence on overseas Chinese communities worldwide. Explore how Xinhui (新会) bridges tradition and modernity through immersive cultural experiences, iconic landmarks like Birds’ Paradise, and the flourishing chenpi tourism hub. Dive into the heart…

ByStevenNovember 9, 20240Comments

Traditional Enping specialty zongzi displayed in woven baskets and bamboo trays

Culture and Traditions Emigration Stories Enping Historical Landmark Travel Guides

Enping: A Living Harmony of Tradition and Modern Life

Enping, a city woven with history and modern innovation, bridges generations through its rich traditions and forward-thinking industries. From its distinctive hot springs and vibrant local arts to its global influence in the microphone industry, Enping offers a unique blend of cultural resilience and economic dynamism. Discover how this corner of Guangdong preserves its heritage…

ByStevenNovember 8, 20240Comments

Modern illuminated bridge in Jiangmen at night with vibrant red and blue lights.

Culture and Traditions Historical Landmark Jiangmen Travel Guides

Jiangmen City: The Gateway to the Wuyi Region

Step into Jiangmen City, where tradition meets progress in the heart of the Wuyi Region. Known as the ‘Capital of Overseas Chinese,’ Jiangmen offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and modern vibrancy. From exploring UNESCO-listed Diaolou watchtowers to enjoying morning Tai-chi by the river, every corner of Jiangmen invites you to…

ByStevenNovember 1, 20240Comments

Entrance gate of Yicheng Ancient Banyan Park in Taishan Duhu, featuring traditional architecture with a tiled roof and stone sign under a clear blue sky.

Taishan Travel Guides

Reconnect with Your Heritage in Taishan Duhu: A Guide to Roots, Food, and Travel

Taishan Duhu (台山都斛), a hidden gem in Guangdong, invites you to reconnect with your roots and savor its rich heritage. From exploring the historic Victory Rescue Landing Point to indulging in fresh seafood at Duhu Seafood Street, this charming town blends cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Plan your visit to experience the best…

ByStevenDecember 16, 20240Comments

Xinhui Xuegong, historic Confucian temple in Xinhui, China.

Historical Landmark Travel Guides

Siyi Region Landmarks: A Journey Through History and Heritage

Discover the Siyi region’s remarkable journey through time, where the legacies of migration and cultural heritage intertwine. This article invites the overseas Chinese diaspora to reconnect with their roots by exploring iconic landmarks like the Kaiping Diaolou, the historic Chikan Town, and the Wuyi Overseas Chinese Museum. Through stories of resilience and preservation, this guide…

ByStevenDecember 10, 20240Comments

Roots of China: Celebrating Heritage, Empowering Artisans

Siyi to Wuyi: A Journey of Transformation and Heritage

Qílóu Architecture in Wuyi: Cultural Fusion and Resilience

Roots of Legacy: Wuyi Impact & Future Generations

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