Meet Zhu, a grandpa who has lived in the same place in Beijing for over 70 years! He lives in a special kind of neighborhood called a hutong. Hutongs are narrow streets or alleys filled with traditional courtyard homes where families have lived for generations. Over the years, Zhu has seen many changes. When he was young, life was tough, and his family didn’t have much. But now, things have gotten so much better. “Every day feels like New Year,” he says with a smile. One of the most important times of the year for Zhu and his family is the Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year. It’s a huge celebration that lasts for fifteen days! Can you imagine that? Even though the fireworks, decorations, and delicious food are amazing, for Zhu, the best part of Spring Festival is getting together with his family. “It’s the deep longing for family reunions that still truly defines Spring Festival,” he says. During this time, families travel from all over to be together. They share meals, give red envelopes called hongbao, and make memories that last a lifetime. It’s a time of joy, love, and thankfulness. Zhu’s story reminds us how important family is, no matter where we live. Just like Zhu in his hutong home, celebrating traditions with loved ones makes every day feel special.A Hutong Family’s Spring Festival Journey 🏮✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com