Under the warm winter sun, casting its glow over the streets and alleys of the ancient capital, a journey filled with culture and exploration unfolded as planned. High school students and teachers embarked on a four-day, three-night study trip in Beijing — a city where history is intertwined with modernity. Whether immersed in the red walls and golden roofs of the Forbidden City or strolling through the futuristic realms of Universal Studios, this journey offered students the opportunity to experience the charm of cultural fusion, embrace the strength of teamwork, and gain profound insights into responsibility and growth through diverse activities.
Exploring the Harmony Between Individual and Collective
With the theme of “Individual and Collective,” the Grade 9 Winter Study Tour encouraged students to step out of the classroom and into society, delving into the relationship between the individual and the collective, as well as the importance of cultural identity.
Society is a vast collective, while the school serves as the nurturing home where we grow. From the bustling Shanghai and Beijing train stations to countless group departures, shared meals, and nightly routines, every aspect of the journey tested the students’ teamwork and collaboration skills. Through mutual assistance and cooperation, G9 students gradually formed a team, gaining a deeper appreciation for the strength and warmth that a collective provides.
Mr. Leung Man-tao, in his article The False Problem of Cultural Invasion: Starbucks in the Forbidden City, explores the collision between cultural identity and multiculturalism. During this study trip, the G9 students, building upon insights gained in their Chinese classes, experienced firsthand the interplay and contrasts between cultures. They walked through the Forbidden City, immersing themselves in the profound heritage of traditional Chinese culture, and visited Universal Studios, enjoying the essence of international modern entertainment. This stark contrast prompted the students to reflect on their own cultural identity: Who are we? How has our culture been influenced by both Chinese and Western elements? As Chinese students and future participants in the global community, how can we uphold our traditional culture while embracing an open and inclusive global perspective?
This journey was not only a feast for the senses but also a profound exploration of cultural identity. Along the way, students deepened their understanding of the connection between self and the collective, gradually learning how to find their cultural positioning within a diverse cultural landscape. It laid a solid foundation for them to become future citizens who embrace both heritage and openness.
Grade 10 · A Practical Classroom for Teamwork and Responsibility
Grades 11 and 12 · A Journey of Cultural Heritage and Reflection
Senior students delved into the cultural heart of Beijing, immersing themselves in the profound essence of tradition through Peking Opera, intangible heritage arts, and historical landmarks. From learning to perform iconic Peking Opera excerpts to crafting personalized “Rabbit Figurines,” from enjoying tranquil moments at the Sanlian Taofen Bookstore to the cultural enlightenment at the Imperial Academy, students not only experienced the allure of ancient culture but also reignited their motivation for learning through hands-on exploration. This journey was a harmonious blend of past and present, inspiring future possibilities while fostering a meaningful dialogue between the individual and cultural heritage.
The Forbidden City, a royal palace that witnessed the downfall of two dynasties, hides countless stories under its red walls and yellow tiles. I walked along the jade-like white path, looking back at the Meridian Gate. It felt like travelling through time, as if I could see the Empress Dowager being carried into the palace in a palanquin, and further away, at Coal Hill, beneath the crooked tree, was the spot where Emperor Chongzhen last gazed upon his doomed dynasty. I could almost see the helplessness in his eyes…
The Old Summer Palace was originally a Western-style garden, with beautiful scenery and many fascinating elements. What shocked me most was the Zodiac Fountain, where each of the twelve zodiac animals would spout water on the hour, corresponding to the twelve traditional Chinese time periods. Unfortunately, during the 19th century, a fire caused by the Anglo-French Allied Forces destroyed all this, including the creative and thoughtful fountain. With deep regret, I could almost hear the helplessness of the royal family and the sounds of the flames. A weak nation has no diplomacy; only when a country is strong can it protect its territory!
Throughout the journey, I learned a lot. We helped each other and learned how to live better together. When we studied history, we exchanged our thoughts. As the saying goes, “Reading thousands of books is not as useful as travelling thousands of miles.” Perhaps, this is the best example.
Through this study trip, I not only recognized the importance of the individual in cultural inheritance but also gained a deeper understanding of the power of the collective. It is through the joint efforts of countless generations that our culture has been passed down to this day.
As a youth of the new era, I realize how important it is to take on the responsibility of preserving and developing our culture. In my future studies and life, I will focus more on teamwork and strive to contribute to the continuation and innovation of Chinese culture.
The shadow play at Lao She Tea House opened the door to folk culture for us. As the shadow puppets came to life, we were instantly captivated. While experiencing the charm of traditional craftsmanship, our restless hearts calmed, and a deep respect for local culture emerged. The subsequent stage interaction allowed us to fully appreciate the allure of shadow puppetry.
The Beijing Art Museum displayed a dazzling array of artworks. As we wandered through, our previously vague sense of art was awakened, and we began to think about the diversity of beauty. Our aesthetic senses subtly improved.
This study journey left us wanting more. We look forward to exploring, discovering, and experiencing the beauty of Beijing again!
The next day, Universal Studios welcomed us with musical performances, dazzling light shows, and festive parades, leaving us with a fresh impression of its magic. Later, we strolled through the Forbidden City, where the clear blue sky complemented the red walls, green tiles, bare branches, and white jade bridges, weaving a serene picture of the ancient capital.
On the fourth morning, we visited the Imperial Academy and the Confucius Temple, where stone tablets inscribed with the achievements of past scholars filled us with awe.
This journey was deeply rewarding, though we look forward to having more time in the future to savour local specialties and fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of our travels.