To allow international students to experience the unique charm of the ancient villages of Eastern Zhejiang up close and to promote cultural exchange and integration between China and other countries, Ningbo University warmly launched a cultural experience event themed “Discovering the Beauty of Zhenhai” at the Zheng’s Seventeen Houses Scenic Area on March 9. International students from various countries unlocked the secrets of Eastern Zhejiang culture as they wandered through the ancient village lanes, forging deep friendships through interactive experiences.
Upon arriving at the Zheng Family Seventeen Houses Scenic Area, the international students embarked on this cultural exploration journey armed with treasure hunt manuals. The carefully designed cut-out photo frames and scenic clues within the manuals sparked curiosity and anticipation, prompting everyone to take their first steps into the ancient village’s mysteries. The folk culture interactive session next to the Grand Stage was the first to ignite the atmosphere. Classic folk games such as ring toss, arrow-throwing for good fortune, and shuttlecock kicking had everyone eager to give them a try. Amid laughter and joy, the international students experienced the fun of traditional folk customs, bridged the gap between one another through mutual assistance, and immersed themselves in the unique charm of traditional Chinese games.
Later, guided by professional docents, the international students stepped into the blue-tiled, brick-walled courtyards of the Zheng Family’s Seventeen Houses. There, they listened to the family stories and historical significance behind the architecture, appreciating the architectural aesthetics of traditional East Zhejiang dwellings. Following clues from their treasure hunt guidebooks, they wandered through the pavilions and towers of the ancient village, searching for specific scenic spots to take photos and check in, deepening their understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of the Zheng Family’s Seventeen Houses through their exploration. Participants who completed the check-in tasks also redeemed exquisite cultural and creative gifts, adding a sense of ceremony to their exploration of the ancient village.
The hands-on craft session was a major highlight of the event, offering international students an immersive experience in traditional Chinese craftsmanship—making Chinese knots. Under the guidance of instructors, everyone threaded cords, tied knots, and wove, weaving their hopes and aspirations into the delicate knots. As the event drew to a close, everyone gathered at the grand stage, where international students shared their experiences and reflections on the event, their words brimming with admiration and appreciation for the culture of the ancient villages of Eastern Zhejiang.
Using the Zheng Family’s Seventeen Courtyards as a cultural vehicle, this cultural experience event provided international youth with an excellent platform to appreciate traditional Chinese culture and understand the local customs of Zhenhai. It not only allowed young students to appreciate the unique charm of the ancient villages of East Zhejiang but also built a bridge for cultural communication between China and other countries through interactive exchanges, enabling diverse cultures to blend through interaction and coexist through dialogue.
