From October 24 to 27, USTC students joined the 12th Annual Cultural Exploration for International Students in Anhui Province themed on “Hui Mountains, Hui Rivers, Hui Culture”, hosted by the Anhui International Student Education Association and co-organized by Huangshan University and Anhui University of Technology. Designed to deepen international students’ appreciation of Hui culture, this activity promotes meaningful cross-cultural exchanges and supports high-quality growth of international education in Anhui. Twelve international students from USTC, together with 180 faculty and students from other 23 universities across 49 countries, participated in this cultural study tour.
On October 24, students embarked on a journey to explore the renowned Hui culture and modern developments in Anhui. Captivated by the architectural elegance and intricate woodcarvings at the Hui Culture Museum, they were deeply moved by the resilience and ethics of the Hui merchants. In the cultural experience zone, students took up brushes to explore the “Four Treasures of the Study,” finding a heartfelt connection to Chinese culture through the art of calligraphy.
Echoing the sentiment of the legendary geographer Xu Xiake, who three centuries ago declared, “Of all the mountains, none surpass Huangshan,” students climbed Huangshan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its majestic granite peaks, mystical cloud formations, and iconic pine trees. The awe-inspiring scenery left a lasting impression on all who experienced it.
On October 26, students visited the ancient village of Hongcun, renowned for its picturesque white walls, black-tiled roofs, and ingeniously designed waterways that reflect the landscape like an open-air museum of Hui architecture. The unique "Ox-shaped" village layout, reflecting the profound ingenuity and aesthetics of Huizhou’s people, transported them to an era where harmony between architecture and nature was a way of life.
That evening, at the closing ceremony and cultural gala at Huangshan University, students from USTC recited Li Bai’s timeless verses, sharing the poet's spirit with the audience that spanned continents and cultures. Later students were presented with completion certificates, bringing the evening to its climax.
(Second from the left is SHUAK BAKYTNUR, a USTC international student from Kazakhstan.)
On October 27, students gathered at the Culinary Training Center of Huangshan University to learn the art of Hui cuisine. Guided by master chefs, they crafted the local delicacy, Huizhou dumplings, savoring the experience with smiles as warm as the dishes they created.
(Dean Li Qingjiu, the School of International Education, Huangshan University gives a thumbs-up to students' creations.)
The cultural study tour provided valuable experience for international students, from breathtaking landscapes to traditional arts and cuisine. In the camaraderie fostered through shared activities, they deepened friendships as well as a sense of pride in the identity as USTC international students.
