07 February 2025
In December last year, 15 Years 9 to 11 Chinese language students, accompanied by three staff members, set off on the China Study Tour. Spanning 19 days, this enriching journey offered a blend of educational, cultural and adventurous experiences, leaving students with lasting impressions and valuable insights. Throughout the tour, students visited five cities – Beijing, Xi’an, Dali, Lijiang and Shanghai – each providing unique opportunities to engage with China’s rich history, diverse traditions and dynamic modern society.
Beijing: A Historic Beginning
The tour commenced in Beijing with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Students admired the intricate architecture, serene gardens and historical significance of these sites. At the Great Wall in Mutianyu, they experienced ancient military engineering firsthand, enjoying breathtaking views and thrilling toboggan rides.
Cultural immersion was a highlight, with activities such as crafting incense hammers, playing the guqin (a traditional Chinese instrument) and visiting a local family in the Hutongs to make dumplings. Students also tried their hand at playing the Chinese yoyo (空竹) and hacky sack (毽子), deepening their appreciation for China’s artistry, intangible cultural heritage and traditional exercises.
Xi’an: Exploring Ancient History
In Xi’an, the ancient capital, history came alive with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors Museum, where students marveled at the uniqueness of each warrior. Exploring the Ancient City Wall by bike added a dynamic, hands-on dimension to their historical learning. Workshops on creating mini terracotta warriors and solving traditional wooden puzzles enriched their understanding of ancient craftsmanship.
Dali and Lijiang: Natural Beauty and Ethnic Cultures
The tour’s rural leg in Dali and Lijiang introduced students to the natural beauty of China’s countryside. Activities included biking around Erhai Lake, riding horse-drawn carriages in Xizhou Village, and marveling at the dramatic landscapes of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Visits to ancient towns showcased diverse ethnic traditions and lifestyles. Students also participated in traditional tie-dye workshops, wrote Dongba calligraphy, and attended the “Impression Lijiang” show, which celebrated the culture of the Naxi and Bai ethnic groups. These activities offered a harmonious mix of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure.
Shanghai: Modernity and Cultural Exchange
The final leg of the tour in Shanghai focused on modernity and school exchange. At Shixi High School, students joined morning exercises, attended classes, played friendship soccer matches, and participated in workshops such as Chinese knot-tying and mooncake-making. These experiences provided a glimpse into the daily lives of Chinese students, fostering cross-cultural friendships. Beyond the school, guided city walks through Zhongshan Park and Huazheng University showcased Shanghai’s vibrant history and bustling cityscape.
Reflections and Gratitude
Beyond the activities, students gained invaluable insights into China’s educational system, historical milestones, and cultural diversity. They learned to navigate new environments, appreciate different perspectives, and build meaningful connections with peers and hosts. The tour fostered personal growth, cultural understanding, and a deeper curiosity about the world. This transformative journey combined learning with exploration, leaving students with lifelong memories and a broader worldview.
Special thanks go to:
• Mr Nolan for approving the tour,
• Ms Victory and the finance department for managing the financial aspects,
• Ms Clarke for her comprehensive risk assessments, and
• Mr Jaldiani and Mr Freesmith for their dedicated care of the students throughout the tour.
The China Tour Review Night will be held on 12 February 2025, giving students an opportunity to share their incredible experiences with parents and friends.
Fangfang Qiu
Coordinator of Chinese
