Exploring the vibrant life of China's elderly

Before I came to China last autumn, I had spent several years studying Chinese language and culture, and I felt like I had a good overview of what might surprise me after moving here. However, certain things always managed to evade the scope of textbooks and television shows. For example, I was shocked by the vibrant life of the elderly and the differences in culture between the younger and older generations in China.

It's not just the natural variances in their daily routines and lifestyles, which are to be expected anywhere in the world. There is something much more prominent: how different age groups interact with public spaces.

During my routine strolls around the neighborhood, I would often stumble upon scenes that diverged from my expectations. I might encounter someone cooking a meal on a portable gas stove placed in the middle of the pavement. Sometimes, I might stop and join a crowd gathered around a chess or card game. Then there were the occasions where I would pass by individuals taking afternoon naps on a bench, watching TV dramas with blaring speakers, or simply listening to classical music on a radio.