From May 17 to 18, the International Office organized a study trip for over 40 international faculty and students to Huazhou Academy in Dengzhou and the Danjiangkou Reservoir in Xichuan, immersing them in the charm of traditional Chinese culture and a monumental water conservancy project.

As the birthplace of the spirit “being the first to bear worries for the world”, Huazhou Academy embodies the cultural essence of “universal concern” expressed in The Yueyang Tower Inscription. Through guided tours and hands-on experiences, the international participants gained a deeper understanding of ancient Chinese educational philosophy and humanistic values. Under staff guidance, they crafted lacquered fans adorned with traditional landscape paintings, appreciating the artistry of intangible cultural heritage. A special workshop on traditional instruments allowed them to play the xun (an ancient clay flute) and dizi (Chinese bamboo flute) in an ensemble, offering an immersive glimpse into the refined tastes and wisdom of ancient Chinese scholars. Through these hands-on cultural activities and musical explorations, the Academy shared China’s stories of patriotism and harmony in diversity with the world.

The group also visited the Taocha Hub, known as the “First Canal Head under Heaven” of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project’s central route. Witnessing this strategic inter-basin project firsthand, they learned how its annual water diversion of 9.5 billion cubic meters alleviates shortages in northern China, benefiting 24 cities across four provinces. Water resource education sessions highlighted China’s ecology-prioritized and systematic approach to global water governance, showcasing the Eastern wisdom behind this megaproject’s contribution to sustainable development.

The international participants remarked that the trip not only deepened their understanding of China’s traditional culture and modern engineering feats but also fostered cross-cultural appreciation. They expressed eagerness to further explore the profound heritage of Chinese civilization in the future.

Written & Photo by: Xu Lingzhen

Source: NYNU News (Chinese)

https://www2.nynu.edu.cn/xzbm/hzc/info/1096/2394.htm