From October 29 to October 31, A Date with Xuyong——the Silk Road Youth Study Tour was held in Xuyong, Luzhou. Over three days, international students from Sichuan University hailing from Russia, Colombia, Bulgaria, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, and Belarus explored the historical sites of Xuyong County, including the Spring and Autumn Temple and the historical site of the Red Army's Long March at Shixiangzi. They engaged in hands-on experiences, such as trying tie-dye crafts at the Moni Town Intangible Cultural Heritage Center, visited unique villages like Haiya and Hongyan in Shuiliao Yi Ethnic Township, watched sika deer at the Huangni Town Forest Deer Park, and learned about bamboo culture at "Gungun" House. They also visited the Luohan Forest Cultural Tourism Project, admired Xuyong's distinctive architecture, and enjoyed the region's signature delicacies in what became an unforgettable "Date" with Xuyong.

Green Xuyong: Experiencing the Beauty of Ecology

Xuyong is often associated with the reputation of "Healthy Bamboo Land, Picturesque Xuyong". Its ecological appeal drew the international students' attention as they embarked on a health and wellness journey at Luohan Forest, where they delved into the secrets of Chinese medicinal herbs and practiced the traditional health exercise known as Baduanjin qigong.

Luohan Forest in Xuyong County

"The 'Two Hands Hold the Heaven' move is my favorite," shared Alina, a Russian student with excitement. "Baduanjin qigong brings comfort to the body and leaves me feeling refreshed. I'd love to share it with my family."

International students learning about tea-picking techniques [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

At "Gungun House", a bamboo craftsman guided the students in creating bamboo wind chimes, while at the Forest Deer Park, they bonded with sika deer, experiencing the joy of harmony between humans and animals. In Hongyan Village, they learned tea-picking and tea-tasting, immersing themselves in the charm of Chinese tea culture.

This experience allowed the international students to deeply appreciate the essence of Chinese traditional culture and witness the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, showcasing Xuyong's ecological beauty to the world.

Historic Xuyong: Exploring the Art of Wood Carving

On October 29, the students visited the Spring and Autumn Temple on Shaanxi Street in Xuyong County. This hall, originally a meeting place for salt merchants, is renowned for its exquisite wood carvings.

Wei Simi shared her experiences at the Spring and Autumn Temple on sicial media

"These wood carvings have delicate lines and complicated patterns, which are really beautiful. Every window here looks like a carecully crafted work of art." During the visit, Wei Simi, an international student from Sri Lanka, said excitedly.

A Taste of Xuyong: Savoring Authentic Local Flavors

Food is inseparable from daily life in Xuyong, where locals cherish specialties like Xuyong Bean Soup Noodles, Jiangmen Tofu with Meat, Bird’s Nest Vermicelli, and Lianghe Snacks. On the morning of October 31, the students awakened their taste buds with a steaming bowl of Xuyong Bean Soup Noodles.

Xuyong Bean Soup Noodle

Originating in 1883 during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, Xuyong Bean Soup Noodles boast a rich history. This traditional local dish is known for its wide broth, generous oil, and flavorful toppings, offering a tasty, satisfying meal.

Jiangmen Tofu with Meat

Besides noodles, Xuyong's Tofu with Meat is another standout. This dish combines slices of chicken and seasonal vegetables with sour pickled tofu, creating a perfect blend of flavors that is both rich and refreshing.

The Vibrant Colors of Xuyong: A Fusion of Yi and Miao Cultures

A group photo of international students at Jimingsansheng Grand Canyon [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

The Jimingsansheng Bridge, located at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou, connects these provinces and serves as a meeting point for the Yi, Miao, and Han ethnic groups, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and natural landscapes.

Standing on the bridge, the students gazed across the fertile Sichuan Basin and the majestic Yungui Plateau. "The Jimingsansheng Bridge was the most impressive sight for me. Its grandeur left an indelible impression," said Libo, a student from Tajikistan.

A group photo of international students and Yi people [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

In Haiya Village, friendly Yi locals invited the students to try Yi rice wine, experience glutinous rice cakes, watch traditional Yi clothing shows, join in around a bonfire, and enjoy a communal feast. Meanwhile, in Moni Town, the Miao people warmly greeted their guests with a traditional welcome drink, bamboo pole dancing, and lusheng dancing, allowing the students to participate in the ancient art of Miao tie-dyeing, an intangible cultural heritage.

A group photo of international students and Miao people [Photo by Zhang Zhiyuan]

This journey not only deepened the students' understanding and love for Chinese traditional culture but also sowed the seeds of cultural exchange. Xuyong, a city rich in history yet brimming with vitality, witnessed the new generation of Silk Road youth becoming ambassadors of cross-cultural exchange. Their stories and experiences will continue to shine brightly, marking a beautiful testament to the friendship and cultural connection between China and the world. (by Qin Kang)