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Discovering China's diversity and origins

(chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-09-28 09:49

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Crowds are pouring into the Capital Museum to check out two new exhibitions which celebrate some of the elements which make Chinese culture so unique.

The two exhibitions are being held in honor of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the PRC, which falls on October 1st.

One of them is called Colourful China, which includes plenty of information about the 56 different ethnicities in China, and how they fit within the national landscape.

Male visitor: In the past, we’ve seen information in the form of audiovisuals, print and internet articles, but it was very dispersed. So I think people will gain an overall concept of China’s ethnic diversity.

Also on display are artifacts which show off the special talents of each ethnic group, such as craftwork and musical instruments.

Female visitor: I feel very moved. It feels very different from what I see on television. It is much more stunning.

And for those who enjoy a more hands-on approach, these traditional costumes are lots of fun to try on- and strike a pose in.

The second exhibition, called Early China, explores China's ancient history and the roots of its civilization.

Using a mixture of models, multimedia, antiques, and artifacts found on archaeological digs, the exhibition aims to describe the gradual formation of early Chinese culture.

The Colourful China exhibition began on September 22nd and will end on November 20th. The Early China exhibition began on September 26th and will run until October 30th.

Video: Casey Chin

Story: Casey Chin