Bridging Cultures through the Mid-Autumn Festival | Laowai@Chongqing

Chongqing - On October 3, the "Laowai@Chongqing" series of events, focused on exploring the perspectives of international youth regarding Chinese traditional festivals, descended upon Chongqing's Zhongxian County.

Thirteen international youths from nine diverse nations, including Egypt, Russia, Yemen, Ethiopia, and Malaysia, joined their Chinese counterparts for an immersive three-day experience of the traditional Chinese festival – the Mid-Autumn Festival.

On October 3, thirteen youths from nine nations joined their Chinese counterparts in Chongqing's Zhongxian County for an immersive three-day experience of the Chinese traditional Mid-Autumn Festival. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

Embrace Chinese traditional festivals and cultures

The international visitors delved into traditional Chinese festivals and cultural heritage during their stay. They journeyed through the ancient streets, partook in intangible cultural heritage activities, engaged in traditional Chinese cultural practices such as crafting glutinous rice cakes and lanterns, showcased their talents, ascended Shibaozhai, and explored local museums. Amid these multifaceted experiences, international young people were captivated by China's Mid-Autumn Festival's unexpected romantic and ceremonial essence.

International youths are experiencing batik and tie-dye under the guidance of intangible cultural heritage inheritors. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

Ahmed AlAhmed Mohamed Radwan from Egypt, who had been in China for a month, was pleased with his first experience donning Hanfu, the historical Han Chinese outfit, in Zhongzhou Old Street. He remarked, "I've heard about the Mid-Autumn Festival in China before, but this is the first time I've had the opportunity to feel the atmosphere of the Mid-Autumn Festival with friends from different countries. It's great!"

Dressed in Hanfu and the traditional attire of their respective countries, the young people from different corners of the world strolled along Zhongzhou Old Street, its bluestone paths, ancient trees, and historic dwellings exuding an aura of festival rituals that created a picturesque scene.

International youths are trying at paper cutting. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

Under the guidance of intangible cultural heritage inheritors, they also tried their hand at paper cutting, batik, and tie-dye. KUCHMA IANA from Russia was particularly impressed by the art of paper cutting. She observed that while Russia also practices paper cutting, the distinction lies in China's penchant for cutting words, whereas Russia favors crafting snowflakes. Yet, both traditions symbolize beauty and happiness. She expressed her profound appreciation for China's intangible cultural heritage and desired to explore Miao costumes on a future occasion.

Fostering international exchanges

A unique gathering occurred in the warm, hazy, and tranquil evening of Zhongzhou Old Street. Participants gathered to savor fragrant tea, relish mooncakes, create lanterns, and tackle lantern riddles. Immersed in the Mid-Autumn Festival ambiance, everyone spontaneously launched into a talent showcase. Chinese and international youth took turns performing, filling the night with laughter and delight. That evening, 17 performances unfolded, drawing thousands of local residents to partake in the festivities.

A unique gathering occurs in Zhongzhou Old Street, Chongqing's Zhongxian County. (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

After just a few days of shared experiences, the international youth's initial reactions of "good-looking" and "so beautiful" transformed into expressions of awe. Their initial acquaintanceship with their Chinese counterparts blossomed into profound friendships where they openly discussed various topics. In these interactions, foreign and Chinese youths shared insights into their respective cultures and festivals, fostering enhanced communication and mutual understanding.

ERGICHOSELAMUMARKOS, a young Ethiopian, acknowledged that his homeland also observes similar festivals, which signify family reunions. He sensed a robust ceremonial air surrounding the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival.

"Zhongxian County is a unique and intriguing place where I can uncover more layers of Chinese culture," remarked VIN SOK PONLOUE, a student of Southwest University of Political Science and Law hailing from Cambodia. He also admired the scenic beauty of Chongqing, a city nestled amidst picturesque mountains. He found the experience of exploring Chinese culture alongside international and local friends to be profoundly enriching.

The "Laowai@Chongqing" series of cultural exchange activities, themed around international youth exploring Chinese Traditional Festivals, seeks to encourage young people in Chongqing to appreciate and comprehend traditional Chinese culture and the unique Chongqing Bayu culture. Earlier this year, the program successfully hosted cultural exchange activities to celebrate the Chinese New Year and the Dragon Boat Festival. 

Xie Yun, project director of the Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation, emphasized the significance of Chinese traditional festivals as vital conduits and expressions of Chinese culture. He expressed the hope that more young foreign friends would have the opportunity to delve deeper into China's extensive and profound traditional culture.