An online influencer’s yoga session on an ancient city wall in Xiangyang, Hubei Province, China, has ignited a heated debate about appropriateness and respect for historical sites. The influencer, known as @yaoxianer on Douyin with 1.6 million followers, practiced yoga on the city wall, recorded on December 3, 2023. A passerby captured the moment, leading to widespread discussion on social media platforms.
Xiangyang’s ancient city wall, a key historical site dating back to the Han dynasty (206BC-220AD), holds significant cultural importance and was declared a nationally protected site in 2001. The influencer’s actions raised questions about the intersection of modern activities and historical preservation.
Responses to the incident varied widely. Critics labeled the act as “vulgar” and “inappropriate,” arguing that the ancient site, a symbol of cultural heritage, should be treated with respect and not used for personal publicity. Some commentators emphasized that such sacred places are meant for historical appreciation, not as backdrops for social media content.
Conversely, supporters defended the influencer, highlighting that her attire and behavior were not offensive. They pointed out that practicing yoga, a spiritual and physical exercise, should not be condemned when similar activities like tai chi are commonly accepted in public spaces. Proponents argued against the slut-shaming and judgmental attitudes, advocating for more open-mindedness regarding women’s choices and expressions.
This incident is not isolated in its controversy. Similar debates have arisen in the past regarding the use of historical sites for modern activities. For instance, in 2015, the Forbidden City in Beijing became a subject of contention when it was used for nude photography, which some criticized as disrespectful while others defended as an artistic expression of the human body.
The incident also brings to light China’s Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security, effective since 2006, which states that deliberate public nudity can lead to detention for up to 10 days. This law underscores the ongoing conversation about public decency, cultural respect, and the boundaries of self-expression in contemporary Chinese society. As social media continues to blur the lines between private and public spaces, such incidents prompt reflection on how historical sites should be interacted with and preserved in the digital age.
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