To better acquaint international students at our school with Shanghai's development, appreciate Chinese culture, and enhance friendship among classmates, the School of Language and Cultures (School of International Communication and Exchange) organized the Discovering Shanghai during National Day activity on October 1-2. The event was led by student advisors Zhou Zhanjun and Yang Yanfeng.Nearly 40 international students from countries such as Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Thailand, participated.
The two-day event mainly focused on two aspects: urban development and local culture, including the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, the Bund (Wai Tan), Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Nanxiang Ancient Town, and Qiuxiapu Park. On the first day, teachers and students explored the urban economic achievements of Shanghai. They ascended the Oriental Pearl Tower, enjoying the magnificent views along the Huangpu River. A visit to the Shanghai City History Development Museum vividly gave a visual impression of the dynamic development and changes of Old Shanghai. Exploring the Bund and Nanjing Road left a profound impression on international students with the urban landscape of towering buildings and bustling streets.
On the second day, teachers and students ventured to the outskirts of the city to experience traditional folk culture in Shanghai. They stepped into the Nanxiang Ancient Town in Jiading, exploring the ancient charm of the Jiangnan water town and immersing themselves in the local way of life. At the Nanxiang Historical and Cultural Museum, they not only toured the facility but also tried their hands at making Xiaolongbao, delving into the unique aspects of this intangible cultural heritage while learning about its historical significance. Visits to Qiuxiapu and the Jiading Museum allowed them to discover classical Shanghai gardens in the autumn ambiance, experiencing the profound historical and cultural heritage.
Luanna, an international student from Russia, expressed her gratitude, saying, I'm very thankful for the school's arrangements, which allowed us to get to know Shanghai, experience Chinese culture, and enrich our holiday life. During the two days of the trip, we witnessed the development of Shanghai as an international metropolis, felt the local customs, and experienced the most authentic aspects of Shanghai life. We are very curious and fond of Chinese culture, hoping that our exploration of China will start from here and expand further.
Discovering Shanghai is a traditional activity organized by the School of Language and Cultures (School of International Communication and Exchange) specifically for international students. The aim is to encourage students from different countries and cultural backgrounds to experience the real Shanghai and the real China through their steps, eyes, ears, and hearts. In the future, the school will strive for continuous innovation, and contribute to enhancing the school's internationalisation and nurturing more international talents with a deep understanding of China.
School of Language and Cultures (School of International Communication and Exchange)
October 2, 2023
