In order to enhance international students' understanding of traditional Chinese culture, enrich students' campus life and promote communication among students, the Wang Yanan Institute for Studies in Economics and the School of Economics of Xiamen University have arranged a memorable autumn tour for international graduate students. In the wet morning on November 26th, 2022, a group of 15 international students including 6 master students from WISE gathered early at the school gate and began their two-day trip to Quanzhou with an excited mood.
The first stop is Fujian Yingliang Natural History Museum of Stone in Nan 'an Shuitou, which is the first stone themed industry museum in the world. There are four permanent pavilions including the Natural Museum, the Human Museum, the Stone Art Museum and the Stone Industry Museum. The students were attracted by the mysterious story behind the stone and experienced the infinite charm of the nature.
After lunch and a short break, the students went to Wudianshi traditional blocks in Jinjiang City, which are also home to over 100 artistic structures from various dynasties such as ancestral temples, historical residences, art galleries and exhibition centers, covering 8.4 hectares. In these historic blocks, the students visited the ancient buildings with unique southern Fujian characteristics, marveled at the wonderful ancient architectural craft, and also deeply felt the history and traditional culture of southern Fujian region. Next, the students went to Quanzhou to visit the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, and ended the first day of the trip by learning about the history of Quanzhou Port and ancient Chinese maritime culture.
The next morning, the students visited Kaiyuan Temple together, enjoying the charming scenery of Kaiyuan Temple while learning the Buddhist culture. After leaving the beautiful Kaiyuan Temple, the students moved on to the nearby Quanzhou Site of Southern Clan Office, an administrative institution established in 1130 and later for the relatives of the Song Dynasty who moved to Quanzhou, reflecting Quanzhou's special status as a city during the Song and Yuan dynasties. Then the students went to visit Quanzhou Confucious Temple, full of Quanzhou ancient history and culture.
At the last stop of the trip, the students came to Gucuo Teahouse to enjoy the intangible cultural heritage -- the puppet show. While experiencing the "tea culture" of southern Fujian, they also enjoyed Quanzhou's authentic puppet show. The artistic charm of the puppet show left many students with endless memories on the return trip.
During this unforgettable trip, the international students had a deeper understanding of the ancient city, Quanzhou, and felt the charm of traditional Chinese culture.
