On October 29, A Date with Xuyong—the Silk Road Youth Study Tour in Xuyong officially launched in Xuyong County, Luzhou City.

International students from Russia, Colombia, Bulgaria, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, and Belarus of Sichuan University visited the Spring and Autumn Temple in Xuyong County, Luzhou City, to embark on a brief yet significant journey of historical and cultural exploration.

The Spring and Autumn Temple was built in 1900 with funds raised by salt merchants from Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces, and the entire building is renowned for its exquisite wood carving art.

International students listening to the explanation at the Spring and Autumn Temple [Photo by Yang Wenhan]

International students listening to the explanation at the Spring and Autumn Temple [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

"These wood carvings have delicate lines and intricate patterns; they are truly beautiful. Every window here is like a carefully crafted work of art," said Vishmi, an international student from Sri Lanka, excitedly during the visit.

Vishmi appreciating the wood carving art on the window [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

Next, the international students visited the Salt Transportation History and Culture Museum, the Guild Hall Culture Exhibition Area, and the Southwestern Associated University Xuyong Branch Cultural Exhibition Area.

At the Salt Transportation History and Culture Museum, the international students gained in-depth insights into the prosperity of Xuyong's commerce during the Qing Dynasty and the culture of salt transportation through various images, texts, artifacts, and artistic forms, experiencing the profound connotation of the "hardships of the ancient road and the rise and fall of salt transportation."

An international student from Tajikistan, Libo, said, "I really love China's long-standing history and culture. Through this study tour, I gained a clearer understanding of the route and historical significance of the Ancient Salt Horse Road in China."

International students experiencing Chinese tea culture [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

Entering the Guild Hall Culture Exhibition Area, the international students are instantly surrounded by a rich historical atmosphere.

Everyone raised their tea cups and immersed themselves in scenes from the peak period when salt merchants from Shaanxi and Shanxi gathered to discuss matters, watch performances, enjoy tea, and collaborate.

"Come to Xuyong and drink tea, it's satisfying and granted!" the international students exclaimed.

In their excitement, international student Lan Dongshao from Colombia couldn't help but jump onto the stage to perform a wonderful piece of traditional opera, earning cheers from fellow students in the audience.

Lan Dongshao from Colombia demonstrating a segment of traditional opera [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

In the Southwestern Associated University Xuyong Branch Cultural Exhibition Area, the international students were deeply captivated by another aspect of history.

They paused to gaze and listened carefully to learn about the heroic deeds of the teachers and students of the Xuyong Branch in defending their homeland, as well as the selfless contributions and support from the people of Xuyong towards the education efforts of the Southwest Associated University.

The spirit of the people of Xuyong, who embody "hard work in study and everlasting patriotism," deeply moved the international students.

Meili from Uzbekistan left a message on the electronic screen expressing her love for China [Photo by Wu Yu]

This research study tour not only deepened the international students' understanding and love for Chinese traditional culture but also planted the seeds of cultural exchange in their hearts.

The Spring and Autumn Temple，a monument that witnesses the glorious era of salt merchants and the rise and fall of salt transportation history, now also witnesses a new generation of Silk Road youth becoming envoies of cultural exchange in the new era.

The stories and experiences of the international students will like the wood carving art of the Spring and Autumn Temple, shine even brighter after the test of time, becoming beautiful testimonies of friendship and cultural integration between China and foreign countries.(by Qin Kang)