CHINA WOW! Episode② | A Super Idol for Today's Chinese

A comprehensive litterateur, a lovely foodie, an "idol" in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), a "super star" for today's Chinese...

He is Su Dongpo.

People smile out of respect when talking about Su Dongpo. His patriotism and optimism, as well as his family education have greatly influenced Chinese people.

The profound "Three Su" culture is an epitome of Chinese culture.

As a significant part of Chinese culture, the "Three Su"(Su Dongpo, or Su Shi; his father Su Xun; his little brother Su Zhe were all outstanding Chinese litterateurs and have been honored the "Three Su") culture is an important channel to introduce Chinese stories, values and spirits to the world.

"China WOW", a bilingual documentary series presented by Sichuan International Communication Center (SICC) was started on Sept. 20, 2022, taking the "super experiencers" from the world to visit Sichuan and explore the lovely China.

In "China WOW" episode two, Morinaga Masahiro, the chief delegate of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Chengdu office was invited as a "super experiencer" to visit Meishan, Sichuan, the hometown of the "Three Su".

Dongpo braised pork, Dongpo pickles, Dongpo rice, Dongpo feast... to Morinaga Masahiro’s surprise, everything tastes "Dongpo-ish" here.

With a river and vast fertile land, Meishan has been an important grain production base in Southwest China since the ancient time.

Abundant resources lead to the profound culture. Lots of litterateurs were born in Meishan and the "Three Su" has been a spiritual treasure for Meishan people.

Meishan, the time-honored city of food and poetry, is shining in the new era. In Dongpo's poem, pork, pickles, bamboo shoots, rice are embracing the modern time.

Yongfeng village, the first national modern agricultural garden in Sichuan; the world-renowned Dongpo pickles; food; art; opera...people memorize and praise the "Three Su" in various ways, bringing life to Meishan City.

"I'm on my way to business in 360 days out of 365 days. When I enjoy the food with my friends, not being bothered by time, I feel totally free," said Morinaga Masahiro.

What made him so relaxed in Meishan?
Let's embark on a journey to the hometown of Su Dongpo.