As summer sets in across China, this week, temperatures in Xi'an surpassed 100 degrees. But instead of seeking respite in air-conditioned malls, Xi'an residents found an unusual way to cool off.

Working in the scorching summer heat can be tough, especially for outdoor workers, who are exposed to the summer sun for long time. Since 2009, the Chinese government has urged the employers to give workers high temperature subsidy. However, as BON’s George Liu had found, only a few employees are really paid of this extra amount of money in this summer.

Sports camp, church camp, Four-H… many American kids go to camp in the summer. But how many go to school? In the US most don’t, unless they’re in danger of failing that grade. But in China, students go to summer school to get ahead…and it starts with intense pre-school. BON’s Susan Tart tells us why students are attending school – after it’s out for the summer.

Across China this summer, cities are witnessing record breaking hot temperatures. This heat wave is particularly bad news for the thousands across the country who require blood transfusions each day. BON’s Kelda Yuen has more on the desperation faced by China’s blood centers to meet the demand for blood during these peak days of summer.

Two fun-seeking American friends take a trip to the Summer Palace, known as the summer house of China’s ancient Qing Dynasty.

Produced in cooperation with Tripfilms.

This week a high pressure system covering much of China is causing temperatures to reach summer highs. And it's being felt especially in the country's northeastern provinces. Andrew Livingstone braved the heat of Beijing to file this report.

“It's well and truly the start of heat wave season here in Beijing. It's a scorching 104 degrees. I've only been out here a few minutes and already my shirt is drenched in sweat.”

Don't be fooled by the umbrellas – rain would be a welcome relief, but it won't be coming anytime soon. During the summer, they double as movable parasols.

Skies like these aren't always the norm for Beijing residents, who often suffer through a much-publicized pollution problem, but so far this week, it's been all blue and the temperature is rising.