Chinese laborers brought ideas and wealth back home from working in the US in the early 20th century, inspiring some now-famous architecture. Kaiping, a southern city in China, is home to a World Heritage site that honors some of the world’s most unique architecture. Our Host James Chau draws connections between the birth of American industry and the creation of a Chinese style.

This year has seen historic floods around the world. Some cities, like China’s Zhengzhou, are mitigating flooding by developing “sponge” infrastructure — designing better water collection and drainage systems while utilizing surrounding nature. Our Nature Contributor Kyle Obermann explores how cities are dealing with a changing world.

China’s spicy Sichuan-style flavors have become a staple across the globe. This iconic cuisine was developed in Sichuan — a fascinating region that embraces history, tradition, and bold flavors. Our Host James Chau explores the influence this transcends cultures.