In this spring filled March, 22 curious and exploratory high school students from Gymnasium Kirschgarten in Basel, Switzerland arrived at East China Normal University with a love for Chinese culture and a desire for the unknown world, embarking on a wonderful cross-cultural journey.
On March 30th, after a 14 hour flight, 22 Swiss high school students and 3 team leaders finally arrived at Pudong International Airport, filled with longing and curiosity.
Campus Tour in the Rain
The next morning, the drizzle couldn't stop the enthusiasm of the students. Led by Chinese students, they stroll through the beautiful campus of ECNU. The facilities in the library made them curious, and the variety of snacks in the store, especially the unique snack chicken feet, aroused their strong interest and desire to challenge.
Learning Chinese Language
Coming to China, one must learn some Chinese. Swiss students are full of enthusiasm and have started their Chinese learning experience. "My name is Nic, I am 16 years old, and I have two younger brothers..." As each sentence was practiced, the classroom was filled with their laughter and the sound of practice. Every conversation practice is not only an exploration of a new language, but also an opportunity for self challenge and growth.
Practicing Chinese Martial Art
When it comes to Chinese martial arts, students are all eager to practice the lengendary Chinese Kungfu. At first, each move seemed a bit clumsy, but the eyes of the students were filled with determination and focus. Every punch and kick is a challenge to oneself, and every progress makes their smiles even brighter.
Immersing in Chinese Paintings
Swiss students have transitioned from the vitality of martial arts to the tranquility of traditional Chinese painting. The students gently hold their brushes, dip them in ink, and draw on the fan. Each stroke is deeply immersed in the artistic world of Chinese traditional painting.
Making Dumplings for Your Own Meal
How can you not experience cooking food yourself when you come to China, a country with all different types of delicious cuisine? Although they are not familiar with the techniques, as dumplings of different shapes gradually take shape in their hands, and they taste the fruits of their labor, everyone's face is filled with a sense of achievement and joy.
On April 3rd, Swiss students visited Shanghai Caoyang No.2 High School with excitement, embarking on a special cultural exchange journey. Luo Jue, the director of the International Exchange Center at Caoyang No.2 High School, welcomed the students who had come from afar. Chinese students also prepared exquisite welcome cards to find their new friends.
Cross Cultural Conversations in Language Classes
Swiss students joined German and Italian classes at Caoyang No.2 High School. Chinese and foreign students worked together to creatively transform waste materials, exchange ideas while painting Easter eggs, and draw Peking Opera masks. Students enhance their friendship through language communication and interaction.
Time to Interact During Lunch
At lunchtime, Chinese and Swiss students sit together at the cafeteria to share a sumptuous lunch. The students had endless topics. Friendship takes root and sprouts in communication. Students exchange contact information, take photos together, using the lens to capture this precious moment of friendship.
Traditional Chinese Culture Experience
In the afternoon, the teachers of Cao Yang No. 2 High School also planned a series of wonderful cultural experience activities to show the essence of traditional Chinese art for Swiss students: paper cuttings, calligraphy, and tea art. These activities have also deepened the students' understanding and appreciation of Eastern aesthetics.
As the old Chinese saying goes, "Traveling thousands of miles is better than reading thousands of books", Swiss high school students also came on a journey of exploration. Their footprints are all over the misty rain in Jiangnan: the alleys and lanes of Tianzifang, the ancient charm of Yu Garden, the water town style of Zhujiajiao, the special exhibition of Sanxingdui in Shanghai Museum, the classical Chinese gardens in Suzhou, and the beautiful scenery of West Lake in Hangzhou. Every step is a profound experience of knowledge, leaving unforgettable memories in every aspect.
