Reminders of history

To mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CPC, the latest season-which is now available on China Central Television's website-blends veteran guides' introductions, stories told by youngsters and close-up shots inside museums to look back on the turbulent era from the Party's founding in 1921 to the birth of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

Aside from Zhu De's pistol, a number of revolutionary relics are showcased in the show, including an important seal used by general He Long, and the first radio owned by the Red Army in 1930.

"Museums are unique places that take you back in history. The charm of history lies in the details, historical information and legendary stories behind each of the precious relics," says Si Xiaofeng, the chief director, adding that he wishes the show can raise youngsters' interest to better learn about China's modern history.

Depicting the show as "a red gift" for children, Si says the crew has also invited a special team of volunteer tour guides-aged between 7 and 16-recommended from all the 11 museums or selected from the previous three seasons.

A moment at which Si was most impressed was during the crew's visit to Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall, also the residence of Mao Zedong and the workplace of the Central Committee of the CPC between 1935 and 1948.

Stumbling upon students from a primary school who were attending an art festival, Si was captivated by a child's emotional retelling of the heroic story of Zhang Side (1915-44), a veteran soldier who sacrificed his life to rescue a companion during a dwelling cave collapse.

Si says he was deeply moved as the scene denotes that the history has been remembered by the next generation, also the future hope of China.