Gangcheng district in Jinan hosted an event for international friends on Sept 6, where 11 students explored areas like Xinzhuang, Lixin, and Wenyuan sub-districts. They immersed themselves in cultural activities such as the Panlong Bangzi Opera, making mugwort bundles, and harvesting peaches as part of an experience of the unique charm of rural vitalization.

At the Panlong Bangzi Opera cultural center in Xiachen village, students were captivated by historical theatrical costumes. Han Ke, the troupe leader, guided them through excerpts from this intangible cultural heritage, with participants eagerly learning each line.

"I want to sing what I've learned to my friends back home and share the beauty of Chinese traditional culture," said a student from South Sudan.

In Qiaodian village, the students explored local industries, learned about a community dining hall, and admired the picturesque scenery, praising Gangcheng district's vitalization efforts.

At the mugwort processing base in Lixin sub-district, the group learned how mugwort sticks are made. Staff helped them make their own bundles, and live demonstrations showed the students all the uses for mugwort.

"Chinese culture is rich and profound; I didn't realize that such a small mugwort stick could have so many uses. It's amazing," remarked a student from Benin.

After making the mugwort sticks, the group traveled to Beijingshuihe village in Wenyuan sub-district to enjoy peach harvesting.

The afternoon left the international friends with unforgettable experiences, and they expressed their eagerness to share their stories and encourage more people to explore, understand, and appreciate the Gangcheng district.

International visitors gather for a group photo while enjoying peach harvesting. [Photo/Wechat account: ai-jinan]