Core Viewpoint - The decline of telegram services in China reflects a shift in communication preferences, yet there is a resurgence of interest among younger generations seeking the emotional and ceremonial aspects of sending telegrams [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - Before 1995, personal telegrams in Beijing exceeded 3 million per month, but now the daily volume is less than 100 [1]. - The peak of telegram usage occurred in 1978 with 23 million telegrams sent, increasing to 44 million by 1990, and reaching over 100,000 telegrams per day at its busiest [6][7]. Group 2: Current Trends - Following the closure of telegram services in Hangzhou, the remaining service in Beijing has seen a significant increase in telegrams sent, with daily volumes rising to 80-100, nearly ten times the previous amount [2][3]. - Many customers visiting the Beijing service are first-time users, often motivated by curiosity and the desire for a unique experience [2]. Group 3: Emotional Significance - Telegrams are increasingly viewed as a means of conveying emotions and sentiments, with many users appreciating the delayed delivery as it adds a sense of ceremony and significance [3][4]. - The content of telegrams has shifted primarily to messages of congratulations and well-wishes, reflecting their role in significant life events [3]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Despite the decline, China Unicom has no plans to discontinue telegram services and is exploring ways to modernize and revitalize the offering, including integrating telegrams into cultural and tourism activities [6][7]. - The company aims to transform telegram services into a nostalgic experience for younger generations, potentially turning service points into cultural landmarks [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - The traditional telegram service in China is experiencing a resurgence in interest, particularly after the closure of services in Hangzhou, with a notable increase in telegram sending at the Beijing Xidan Unicom office, highlighting a nostalgic connection to this form of communication [2][4][15]. Group 1: Current Trends in Telegram Usage - The telegram service at Beijing's Xidan Unicom office has seen a significant increase in daily telegrams sent, with numbers rising from an average of 10 to 80-100 telegrams per day following the closure in Hangzhou [4][15]. - Many customers are first-time users, often motivated by curiosity or a desire to experience the unique emotional connection that telegrams provide [3][4]. - Telegrams are increasingly used for special occasions, such as graduations and weddings, with many messages reflecting personal sentiments and emotional significance [6][12]. Group 2: Historical Context and Evolution - The peak of telegram usage in Beijing occurred in 1978, with an annual total of 23 million telegrams sent, and the highest daily volume reaching over 100,000 telegrams [11][15]. - The decline in telegram usage began in the 1990s with the advent of new communication technologies, such as mobile phones and email, leading to a drastic reduction in telegrams sent, with only about 200 sent in 2010 [15]. - Despite the decline, the remaining telegram services are adapting by incorporating modern elements and targeting younger audiences, aiming to revitalize interest in telegrams as a nostalgic and unique form of communication [15].

Core Points - The article discusses the farewell of telegram services in Hangzhou, with the last day of operation being April 30, 2025, after which only Beijing will continue to offer telegram services [1][12][18] - The closure of telegram services marks the end of a historical communication method that has been in use for nearly 200 years, reflecting the evolution of communication technology [16][18] Summary by Sections Telegram Service Closure - Hangzhou will completely stop telegram services on May 1, 2025, making April 30 the last day for sending telegrams in the region [1][12] - The event attracted many residents and visitors, leading to long queues at the China Telecom Hangzhou branch, with people eager to send their final telegrams [1][5] Public Sentiment and Participation - Many individuals participated in sending telegrams as a form of nostalgia, with some sending multiple telegrams for personal keepsakes or to commemorate the service [3][5] - A notable participant was a student who sent a telegram to himself as a motivational gesture before his upcoming exams [3][5] Historical Context - The last telegram operator in Hangzhou, who is nearing retirement, reminisced about the golden age of telegrams when they were the fastest means of communication [7][9] - The decline of telegram services began in the 1990s with the rise of alternative communication methods such as telephones and the internet, leading to a significant drop in telegram usage [11][12] Future of Communication - The article emphasizes that the end of telegram services is not just a closure but a transition to new forms of communication, highlighting the ongoing evolution in the telecommunications industry [16][18] - The farewell message from China Telecom reflects a commitment to embracing future technologies while honoring the legacy of telegrams [17][18]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impending cessation of telegram services in Hangzhou, marking the end of an era for this once vital communication method, as the last telegram operator experiences a surge in demand from nostalgic and curious customers [1][16][38]. Group 1: Current Situation of Telegram Services - Hangzhou will officially stop telegram services starting May 1, with only Beijing and Hangzhou remaining as the last cities offering this service [1]. - Following the announcement, there has been a significant increase in telegram requests, leading to long queues at the local telecom office [7][11]. - The telegram service has seen a revival of interest, particularly among younger generations who are curious about this traditional form of communication [8][16]. Group 2: Historical Context and Evolution - Telegrams were once a crucial means of communication in China, especially during the 1980s when telephone penetration was low, with telegrams being the fastest way to send urgent messages [27]. - The peak of telegram usage in Hangzhou occurred in 1988, with a record of 1.9485 million telegrams sent, but the service began to decline with the rise of long-distance telephone services in the 1990s [27][37]. - The last telegram operator, Ren Hong, has witnessed the transition of telegrams from a primary communication tool to a nostalgic and emotional medium [16][27]. Group 3: Emotional and Cultural Significance - The current surge in telegram requests is attributed to a mix of curiosity and nostalgia, with many customers wanting to preserve a piece of history [16][38]. - Telegrams are now seen as a special way to convey emotions and sentiments, contrasting with the immediacy of modern communication methods like WeChat [5][15][44]. - The emotional weight of telegrams is highlighted by personal stories shared by customers, emphasizing their role in connecting families and preserving memories [46].