Kicking off the new year, China’s Tibet present readers its January issue featuring a special topic—On the Living Buddha Reincarnation System in Tibetan Buddhism.

As a unique tradition of succession in Tibetan Buddhism, the reincarnation of Living Buddhas has continued for more than 700 years and has played an important role in the religion’s continuation. With four selected articles on the theme, the journal shares with readers insights into the fundamental principles that must be adhered to in the reincarnation of Living Buddha in Tibetan Buddhism, and tries to clear up the doubt related.

Commemorating 30th Anniversary of Panchen Rinpoche Enthronement

Among the various Living Buddha lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, the Panchen lineage is one of the most renowned. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po’s enthronement, this commemorative article reflects on the historic moment of his enthronement in 1995 and his growth and assumption of responsibilities during the past three decades. As one of the most influential Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, his enthronement and growth may present a model example for the strict application of the reincarnation procedures and for what a responsible Living Buddha would behave.

Gathering Held in Xizang to Mark 30th Anniversary of Panchen Rinpoche Enthronement

On December 9, 2025, a gathering was held at the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Xigaze, Xizang, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the enthronement of Panchen Rinpoche. Through precious firsthand photographs, let’s immense ourselves into this solemn celebration.

Searching and Identifying in Accordance with Rituals and Law: On the Historical Conventions and Contemporary Practice of the Reincarnation of Living Buddha

The reincarnation system of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism is an integrated whole of standardized religious rituals, historical conventions, and established principles. Yet, seeking to contain and divide China, international anti-China forces repeatedly hyped up the reincarnation, in total disregard of the system. On December 8, 2025, a symposium on the Living Buddha reincarnation was held in Xigaze, Xizang. Among the participants, eight eminent monks shared their insights into how the system has helped the religion achieve sustainable development and what Tibetan Buddhism and its Living Buddhas should do in the new era based on historical facts and their personal experience.

Shen Weirong: The Identification and Recognition of Reincarnated Living Buddhas Must Be Conducted in Strict Accordance with National Laws

To further delve into the origins, historical development, and lineages of the reincarnation system of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, the journal conducted an interview with Professor Shen Weirong of Tsinghua University, discussing these issues on the basis of his research. In the interview, Prof. Shen also shared with the journal his efforts on advocating for the academic field “Han-Tibetan Buddhist Studies” and conducting Buddhist studies from a perspective of global history.

China Has the Most Authoritative Voice on Tsangyang Gyatso

In addition to the special topic, the journal engages with recent international discourse concerning the Chinese provenance of Tsangyang Gyatso, the Sixth Dalai Lama, and his cultural legacy, offering a scholarly counterpoint to India’s “international conference” on the historical figure in the so-called “Arunachal Pradesh”. In the History column, the journal invites readers to join Pasang Norbu, former vice president of the Xizang Academy of Social Sciences and honorary president of the Tsangyang Gyatso Cultural Research Association, on a rigorous pursuit of historical truth. Reflecting through his decades of dedication to Tsangyang Gyatso studies and findings, we may come to understand the authentic legacy of Tsangyang Gyatso.

From Visitor to Storyteller: A Foreign Student’s Life on the Plateau

“Xizang has completely changed my lifestyle.” In the Perspective column, we follow Aleksei Perchuko’s steps on the plateau, learning what’s captivating about Xizang in the eyes of an international student.

This year, the journal launches a special series of posters featuring cultural relics unearthed across Xizang, inviting readers to uncover the glorious history of the snowy plateau through these silent guides from the past. The January issue spotlights the Flat-Bottomed Pottery Jar with Large Double Lugs (770BC-476BC).