On September 12th, the International Education College organized 47 international students from 15 countries, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Cameroon, and Ghana, to conduct the "Experiencing China" social practice and cultural experience activity in Xinbin Manchu Autonomous County, Fushun City, Liaoning Province. Hetuala City was the first stop of this cultural experience.
Guided by professional instructors, the students visited the Confucian Temple, Manchu Museum, Khan's Bedroom, and the Great Yamen of the Khan's Palace in sequence. They experienced the traditional Manchu "Galah" game, watched Shaman dances, and learned paper-cutting from inheritors of intangible cultural heritage. The folk custom of "Three Unique Features of the Manchu People" vividly demonstrates the life philosophy of the Manchu people in adapting to the environment with optimism and wisdom, which aroused great interest among the international students.
The exquisite Manchu embroidery works and traditional costumes displayed in the Cheongsam Museum not only showcase the superb craftsmanship of Manchu artisans but also reflect the evolution of costume aesthetics under the integration of Manchu and Han cultures. Among the delicate patterns and gorgeous clothes, the international students felt the inclusive cultural temperament of the Chinese nation.
Subsequently, the teachers and students from the International Education College visited the Qing Yongling Mausoleum, which is the first of the three mausoleums of the Qing Dynasty outside the Shanhai Pass. As a world cultural heritage, Qing Yongling Mausoleum not only demonstrates the high achievements of ancient Chinese mausoleum culture in terms of architectural form, stone carving art, and feng shui layout, but also embodies the in-depth integration of Manchu sacrificial traditions and Chinese ritual civilization. Wandering among the halls, mountains, and rivers, the international students expressed sincere admiration for the wisdom and skills of ancient Chinese people.
By combining on-site visits, intangible cultural heritage experiences, and expert explanations, this activity not only broadened the international students' cultural horizons but also deepened their understanding and recognition of the history of China as a multi-ethnic country and the Manchu intangible cultural heritage. The activity aroused a warm response among the international students. The students expressed that they hoped to participate in more such in-depth and warm cultural practices in the future, so as to truly step into China and understand China. (Author: Li Xueqiao; Proofreader: Shi Liju; Reviewer: He Chuan/ Photographer: Shi Liju)
