A Wave Chaser Beneath the Imperial City

In the final years of the Cultural Revolution, slogans still rang out, but signs of loosening social control were beginning to show. The Beijing hutong courtyards retained the feel of traditional life, while the fading influence of the rebel factions coexisted with the rising culture of street toughs and hooligans.

Zha Dewen comes from a declining bannerman family. Sensitive and rebellious, he gradually develops a strong sense of loyalty to his friends.

This is the story of his journey to the countryside, his return to the city for the university entrance exam, and finally, his decision to go into business as China rides the tide of history...