China is more influential today than at any point in modern history.

Its economy drives global growth, its technology shapes industries everywhere, and under

Xi Jinping, an increasingly confident China is challenging the established world order.

But behind that rise lies a country in the throes of social change, with a slowing economy, an aging population, and widening inequality.

Understanding the rhythms of life in China has never been as important.

So join us as we follow every beat of this story on Drum Tower from The Economist.

I am currently sitting in Iang's flying taxi,

which is about to take off.

I am slightly nervous.

I'm Sarah Wu, the Economist China correspondent,

based in the capital of Beijing

after years in Taipei and Hong Kong.

We are now approaching the Dalai Lama's temple and a very narrow street.

And I'm Jeremy Page, our chief China correspondent, previously based in Beijing for 15 years,

but now in Taipei. And together with Jayao Chen in London and our colleagues across the globe,

we'll take you beyond the headlines to explore how China is reshaping

itself and the world.

From the party's agenda to advances in AI.

I've seen what's happened over the past 20 years, and I think China still has the ability

to surprise us on this front.

And from great power rivalries to popular culture.

Well, you know what the Chinese say?

...