The 2nd Chinese Traditional Culture Carnival, a distinctive Chinese language program organized by the Global Education Center of East China Normal University, was successfully held. With nine different themes, the carnival offered an engaging and delightful cultural feast for students from all around the world, creating countless memorable moments.

1. Hanfu Experience

In the Hanfu experience area, students from the “Luoying Hanfu Club” of East China Normal University prepared various styles of Hanfu. While dressing the participants in Hanfu, they earnestly introduced the historical origins of Hanfu. The students also experienced the elegant pastimes of Ming Dynasty literati—challenging the accuracy of the “arrow pitching” etiquette and the strategic grace of “Chuiwan,” recreating the refined lifestyle of ancient scholars.

2. Tea Fragrance and Incense Elegance

With tea smoke curling and incense floating, the participants gathered around the tea art table, their eyes focused. Teachers Lu Huanhuan and Yu Yan narrated the history of tea culture and incense art. The participants personally brewed tea and savored the fragrance, experiencing the ultimate relaxation and harmony of body and mind.

3. Martial Arts Charm—A Blend of Strength and Grace

Under the careful guidance of Teacher Wang Bin, students experienced the power of Shaolin Fist, the grace of Tai Chi, and the health benefits of Baduanjin. They not only strengthened their bodies but also grasped the essence and philosophy of traditional Chinese martial arts.

4. Silk Strings and Elegant Melodies

The clear sound of the guzheng, the mellow tones of the zhongruan, and the rapid plucking of the pipa—traditional Chinese music resonated through time. Three students from the school’s folk orchestra, as guest performers, showcased their exquisite skills and heartfelt interpretations, leading everyone through time to appreciate the infinite charm of classical Chinese music.

5. Traditional Chinese Medicine—The Path to Health

In the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) area, Teacher Shen Feijie, a former physician from Shuguang Hospital, explained TCM theories in simple terms, covering meridians and acupoints as well as Yin and Yang and the Five Elements. During the pulse diagnosis and acupuncture experience sessions, students eagerly raised their hands to try the unique methods of TCM diagnosis and felt the magic of TCM, gaining a deeper understanding of its profoundness.

6. Mahjong—A Game of Wisdom and Strategy

The mahjong tables were filled with the crisp sounds of tiles and continuous laughter. Students focused on arranging their “wan,” “tiao,” and “tong.” Whether they were beginners or experienced players, everyone found their own fun and challenges on this platform, appreciating the wisdom and charm of this ancient game.

7. Skillful Weaving—Passing on the Art of Knotting

Red threads fluttered like butterflies, weaving through fingers to form auspicious Chinese knots. In the Chinese knot-making area, students gathered around, holding silk threads and following the teacher’s instructions to create various shapes of exquisite knots.

8. Fan Painting—Expressing Creativity through Art

With plain round fans spread out and the fragrance of ink permeating the air, students held their fans and dipped their brushes into paint, creating paintings on the fan surfaces. Each fan painting was full of creativity and personality. Through the painting process, students not only experienced the charm of traditional Chinese painting but also incorporated their best wishes and creativity into their works.

9. Delicious Dishes—Tasting Chinese Cuisine

The kitchen was filled with the aroma of various ingredients, and the students’ faces were beaming with pride. They made creatively shaped dumplings; dishes like tomato and scrambled eggs, Kung Pao chicken, and stir-fried pork were also easily handled—with professional stir-frying movements that made the whole process joyful.

This Chinese Traditional Culture Carnival was like a series of vivid paintings, showcasing the richness and profoundness of Chinese culture. With brush and ink conveying emotions and elegant charm lingering, we hope more students will join us to explore the beauty of culture and pass on the treasures of Chinese civilization.