A memorable journey to Chaozhou

From the bustling campus of Shenzhen University, a diverse group of 25 students and teachers from eight countries, including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and China, embarked on a captivating journey to the serene city of Chaozhou.

Organized by the College of International Exchange under the guidance of our teacher Chen Mo, the expedition from March 9 to 11 was not just a trip to experience the tranquility of rural landscapes, but served as a bridge connecting the ancient with the modern.

Chin Huang (L) from Thailand and Shin Moon-sub from South Korea pose for a photo during their Chaozhou tour. Photos by Chen Mo

Leaving the concrete jungles of Shenzhen behind, our passage through emerald terraced rice paddies and rolling hills marked our transition to a realm steeped in history and culture. Upon reaching Chaozhou, we were greeted by the enchanting aroma of incense from nearby temples and the captivating sight of quaint villages and pagoda-style houses.

Our itinerary was a rich tapestry of cultural immersion and gastronomic exploration. Not only did we delve into the heart of Chaozhou by visiting the majestic Kaiyuan Temple, which unraveled the city’s profound Buddhist heritage, but we also traversed narrow alleyways lined with traditional teahouses and family-owned eateries. Here, we indulged in local delicacies such as the Xikou braised goose, Guantang beef balls, and savory dumplings.

Shenzhen University students pose for a group photo with the lion dancers of Xikou Village in front of the Liu’s Family Temple.

This journey was also a platform for academic and cultural exchange with a focus on rural revitalization. Our team, specializing in international new media, promoted local delicacies and agricultural products, utilizing platforms like Douyin, Kuaishou, Xiaohongshu, and WeChat Channels. We shared our experiences via short videos, gaining over 50,000 views within days after posting.

Shenzhen University students pose for a group photo during their Chaozhou tour.

Muhammad Sajid, a Ph.D. student from Pakistan and a member of our team, said it was a great opportunity to get a better understanding about China and its diverse culture.

As we bade farewell to Chaozhou, we were not just leaving a city behind; we were carrying with us a treasure trove of memories, experiences, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Chinese landscapes and traditions.