While dumplings remain the quintessential dish for countless families welcoming the Chinese New Year, noodles hold a special place as a beloved alternative in certain regional traditions.

In several cities across east China's Anhui Province, chicken soup noodles are traditionally enjoyed on the first morning of the Chinese New Year, as the word "chicken" sounds like the Chinese word for "luck," while noodles symbolize longevity. In Jingyuan County, northwest China's Gansu Province, noodles are not only a staple of the New Year's opening meal but are also eaten frequently in the days that follow.

The dazzling variety of Chinese foods is more than just a meal; it is a vibrant expression of tradition and culture, a view that resonates not only with the Chinese but also with French chef Corentin Delcroix, who calls China his second home.

"Noodles are definitely one of the best representations of Chinese cuisine, as they vary from north to south, east to west; in shape, crafting, texture and topping," he told Xinhua, speaking in fluent Mandarin.

A food vlogger and internet celebrity, Delcroix has spent the past three years showcasing nearly 10 varieties of noodles on social media. "Almost every region has its own signature noodle dish, one that tells the story of its local culture and heritage," he said. The culinary tradition, Delcroix believes, is well worth a deeper look.