Xiangtan University-University of León Confucius Institute Hosts “Chinese Bridge” Summer Camp

Written byDu Xin, Xu Jin, Liu Shuxia

Edited byWang Chengqi

Translated by Li Wenqiang, Huang Can

Source: Office of International Exchange

Featuring colorful cultural courses, Hunancultural tours, anacademic trip to Beijing, and China-Spain friendly football matches, the 2023 “Chinese Bridge” Summer Camp hosted by the Xiangtan University–University of León Confucius Institute concluded successfully from July 8 to 21.Sponsored by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation of the Ministry of Education and hosted by Xiangtan University, the program was designed to tell China’s stories well and help international Chinese-language enthusiasts experience the real China. Activities were held in Xiangtan, Changsha, Shaoshan, and Beijing, showcasing the diverse and charming China to 30 Spanish campers.

Professor Chen Daixiang from Biquan Academy (College of Philosophy and HistoryandCulture)of Xiangtan Universitydelivered a lecture onAn Overview of Chinese Traditional Cultureto the campers, introducing the core Confucian virtuesandChina’s top ten traditional virtues, andperformedguqin (a traditionalChinese musical instrument)for campers. In the Chinese food culture course, Ms. Shan Min from the School of ForeignStudiesopened a window for the campers to explore the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. Mr. Xiang Chunming from the International ExchangeSchoolintroduced the culture of the Chinese tea ceremony, while campers sampled tea and immersed themselves in its refined traditions. In a traditional Chinese painting class, Associate Professor Luo Haochang of the School of Art demonstrated brush techniques and presented three of his own paintings to the campers as gifts. Through these traditional Chinese culture courses, the Spanish campers gained a deeper appreciation for the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Camper Elisa said,“Through this experience, I have felt the profound, extensive and inclusive nature of Chinese culture, and it has been an incredibly rewarding journey!”

The campers experienced the cultural heritage of Hunanat iconic cultural sites in Xiangtan including the Qi Baishi Memorial Hall and Yaowan Historical and Cultural Block. They learned about the development characteristics and future plans of Changsha, a famous historical and cultural city in China, at the Changsha Planning Exhibition Hall. At the Hunan Museum, the historical background and excavation process of the Mawangdui Han Dynasty Tombs, along with the stories behind various cultural relics, left the campers in awe of the long history and culture of Hunan. At the Chairman Mao Zedong Bronze Statue Square and Comrade Mao Zedong Memorial Hall in Shaoshan, the campers learned about the lofty ideals and moral integrity of the great leader. The large-scale live-action performance “The Most Memorable Shaoshan” recreated Chairman Mao’syears ofstudy and struggle through poetry, music, light and shadow, allowing the campers toreflect onthe extraordinarylife journeyof the revolutionary leader. Deeply moved, camper Esther wrote down the famous line from Mao Zedong’s poem in her notebook: “With immense resolve, we dare make the sun and moon shine anew.”

During the academic triptoBeijing, after visiting the Center for Language Education and Cooperation, the campers marveled at the precipitousness of the Juyongguan Pass of the Great Wall, the grandeur of the Palace Museum, the elegance of the Summer Palace, and the lively atmosphere of local life in Nanluoguxiang Alley and Sanlitun. They were fully immersed in the profound historical and cultural heritage of Beijing, as well its vibrant contemporary urban life. After the trip, camper Victor said: “If I get the chance, I will definitely come back to China and visit different cities to experience the beauty of the country!”

Outsidethe classroom, the Spanish team played two exciting friendly football matches with Xiangtan University’s postgraduate football team and faculty representative team respectively. During the event, Spanish-speaking volunteers from the School of ForeignStudiesprovided enthusiastic assistance to the international guests, became trusted friends of the campers during their stay in China and demonstrating strong professionalism and humanistic care.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Spain. Holding this summer camp at this new starting point is of great practical significance. It is an important initiative to jointly write a new chapter in China-Spain friendship andcooperation, and also a key reflection ofXiangtanUniversity’s efforts to accelerate the high-quality opening-up of education and deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges among young people from China and abroad.