Hefei (合肥), the capital city of Anhui Province, has seen an unexpected yet vibrant cultural movement emerge—international students in local universities are embracing China's rich traditions and intangible cultural heritage (ICH). This movement, which has taken root across several universities, highlights a growing fascination with Chinese art, history, and cultural practices among the city's international student body.
Hefei's universities host nearly 3,000 international students from various countries. While many come to study academic subjects, a significant number have found themselves captivated by the diverse and colorful world of Chinese traditional culture. A wide array of courses and hands-on experiences in non-material heritage has drawn these students into China's cultural fold, offering them an opportunity to connect with something far beyond textbooks and lectures.
With an increasing focus on fostering cross-cultural understanding, these institutions have tailored educational programs to introduce international students to the country's most cherished cultural practices, from paper cutting to traditional Chinese medicine. The "Non-heritage Cultural Boom" in Hefei has now become an integral part of the university experience, making China's living traditions more accessible and relatable to a global audience.
Learning Through Experience
In the classroom and beyond, Hefei's universities have been offering a rich curriculum of courses that introduce students to China's traditional culture. The Anhui University of Architecture offers engaging paper-cutting workshops and dragon boat racing experiences. These courses allow students to experience Chinese culture firsthand, where they not only learn the intricacies of paper cutting, an ancient folk art but also gain insight into the teamwork and passion required in the exhilarating sport of dragon boating.
The Anhui University of Chinese Medicine takes a similarly hands-on approach, offering a course in "Five Animal Exercises" (五禽戏), a traditional Chinese physical exercise system based on movements inspired by animals. This practice, which dates back to the Han Dynasty, combines physical exercise with Chinese medical philosophy. Students not only get to learn the history and theory behind the exercises but also engage in the movements themselves, which are designed to improve health, increase flexibility, and promote overall well-being.
At Hefei University of Technology, the university goes further by offering a more extensive cultural curriculum that includes five elective courses focused on traditional Chinese arts, such as calligraphy, Chinese painting, Chinese martial arts, and Chinese etiquette. The required course, "China Overview," offers students a deep dive into the country's history and modern culture. Beyond classroom lessons, students are also invited to participate in cultural activities like appreciating Anhui opera (Lüju), watching performances of Huangmei opera (黄梅戏), and even learning to sing some of the songs themselves. These interactive activities help them experience the diversity and richness of Chinese culture in an approachable and enjoyable manner.
Celebrating Festivals and Traditions
Hefei's universities are not just limited to academic learning—they actively immerse international students in the cultural fabric of China through festival celebrations and community events. Anhui Agricultural University, for example, organizes "Non-heritage New Year" events, where students can experience the excitement and joy of Chinese traditional holidays. These events offer students the chance to engage in traditional customs, such as making dumplings, experiencing the rituals of the Spring Festival, and participating in cultural performances, all while learning about Chinese traditions and values.
Similarly, Anhui Vocational and Technical College has established a cultural practice center dedicated to Anhui's regional heritage, particularly its unique Huizhou (徽州) culture. This center becomes a key venue for international students to explore various aspects of Chinese traditional culture. Activities like seal carving, Chinese calligraphy, and engraving workshops allow students to immerse themselves in the creative processes that have been passed down for generations. These practical experiences help solidify the student's understanding of China's intangible heritage by allowing them to not just learn about it but also contribute to its preservation and appreciation.
A Bridge for Cultural Exchange
One of the most profound outcomes of this cultural boom in Hefei is its role as a bridge for cross-cultural exchange. As more than 50% of the international students in Hefei participate in these non-heritage and traditional cultural courses, they are becoming informal ambassadors of Chinese culture in their own countries. By understanding and experiencing the depth of Chinese history, art, and traditions, they are able to take a piece of China back with them and share it with their peers around the world.
The popularity of these cultural courses among international students also reflects a broader trend toward cultural understanding and exchange. As international students engage with Chinese traditions, they gain a deeper appreciation of the country's unique position in the global cultural landscape. This experience helps foster mutual respect and strengthens ties between China and the rest of the world.
The significance of such programs cannot be overstated. Not only do they enrich the students' understanding of China's cultural heritage, but they also help dispel stereotypes and build a more inclusive global community. By participating in traditional Chinese arts, crafts, and festivals, international students are not just learning—they are partaking in the preservation of a living, evolving culture.
As Hefei continues to expand its offerings of non-heritage courses and cultural experiences, it is clear that these programs will have a lasting impact. By bringing international students closer to Chinese traditions, Hefei has created a platform for the future generation of global citizens who will appreciate and advocate for China's intangible cultural heritage. This educational movement demonstrates the city's dedication to promoting cultural awareness and understanding, fostering connections between cultures that will last long after the students return to their home countries.
The "Non-heritage Cultural Heat" in Hefei is not just a passing trend; it is part of a larger movement to share the wealth of China's ancient traditions with the world. Through continued learning, exchange, and hands-on experience, international students will continue to play an integral role in the global dialogue on cultural preservation and appreciation. As more students immerse themselves in these rich traditions, the cultural ties between China and the world will only grow stronger, laying the foundation for a more united global community.
