—— International Students Embark on Enriching Journey to Explore Yangzhou’s Canal Culture
By Mahnoor Makhdoom
YANGZHOU, China: In an unforgettable excursion that combined cultural exploration, historical discovery, and heartwarming encounters, a group of international students from Communication University of China – prominent Chinese university, recently set sail to unravel the secrets of Yangzhou’s canal culture.
Yangzhou, often lauded as the “Venice of the East” due to its intricate network of waterways, welcomed the diverse delegation of students with open arms. Comprising individuals from various academic backgrounds, including History, Culture, Journalism and International relations, the group embarked on an adventure that left an indelible mark on their hearts and minds.
Delving into the Canal Culture:
The students’ adventure commenced with a thrilling high-speed train ride to Yangzhou, setting the stage for an exciting excursion. With the sleek trains whisking them away, they reached their destination with unparalleled speed and comfort, underscoring the modernity that exists alongside Yangzhou’s deep-rooted traditions. Along the route, awe-inspiring sights greeted them at every turn – from well-preserved ancient architecture to picturesque bridges and quaint teahouses that lined the canals.
The students wasted no time delving into Yangzhou’s canal culture, starting with a visit to the iconic Wanfu Bridge Tower. There, they marveled at the architectural wonders that have stood the test of time, a testament to the city’s historical significance.
Their journey continued with a stop at Sui Yang Emperor Park, a tranquil oasis where they immersed themselves in the serene atmosphere while learning about the historical importance of this imperial park.
Next, the group ventured to the Grand Canal Yuandian Park, a nod to the city’s vital role in China’s grand canal system. This visit provided a deeper understanding of the canal’s importance in facilitating trade and cultural exchanges throughout history.
The students also visited the World Historic and Cultural Canal Cities Cooperation Organization (WCCO) . They learned about the Jiangsu government’s effort to put the Yangzhou Initiative into practice, building an online platform for cultural exchange and cooperation between historic canal towns. They additionally discovered that with an international vision, the platform uses modern media technologies as its carrier. It aims to optimize resources allocation and facilitate information publication, delivering matching services between the buyers and suppliers to promote canal towns’ development.
At Fengshan Tech Company, they glimpsed into the innovative side of Yangzhou, witnessing cutting-edge technology and its impact on the city’s economic development.
Their journey through Yangzhou continued with a visit to the picturesque Guazhou Ancient Town, a charming enclave that showcases the city’s enduring cultural traditions. Here, they explored historic streets, sampled local delicacies, and engaged with the welcoming local community.
The Grand Canal Museum offered a comprehensive look into the history of the world’s longest canal, providing valuable insights into the role it played in shaping Yangzhou’s identity and its significance in China’s past and present.
The students didn’t merely observe; they actively engaged in various cultural activities. With wooden ladles in hand, they attempted traditional Chinese tofu making with the locals. They also indulged in a gastronomic adventure, sampling Yangzhou’s renowned fried rice and delicate dim sum at local teahouses.
Perhaps the most touching moment of the trip occurred when the international students had the privilege of interacting with the local residents. They visited a charming neighborhood where elderly residents warmly welcomed them and shared stories of Yangzhou’s history and canal culture. This exchange transcended language barriers and fostered a genuine connection between the students and the local community.
Reflections and Takeaways:
As the field trip to Yangzhou concluded, the international students took time to reflect on their profound experiences. Brendah from Rwanda said ‘‘Not only had she gained a deeper understanding of China’s rich history and vibrant culture, but had also formed lasting bonds and developed a profound appreciation for the hospitality of the people of Yangzhou.’’
In words of Albert, a German student ‘’This international student adventure in Yangzhou serves as a testament to the power of cultural immersion and the enduring impact it can have on individuals seeking to broaden their horizons.’’
Mohammad from Jordan extended his heartfelt gratitude to the university for orchestrating this extraordinary adventure and to the Jiangsu Government for their generous support, he added that this trip was a testament to the power of collaboration and the dedication of institutions to enrich the educational experiences of their students.
Yangzhou, with its canal culture, continues to be a place where history and modernity converge, extending an invitation to travelers from around the world to explore its hidden treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
