Recently, a youth delegation of 20 American students from New Jersey's Young Leaders Program visited Zhangjiajie College. They engaged in in-depth cultural exchanges centered on traditional folk activities such as the Tujia baishou dance, or hand-waving dance, as well as dragon and lion dance. The tour helped foster mutual cultural appreciation between Chinese and foreign youth.

On the evening of July 1, the delegation arrived at the Zhangjiajie College from Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport. Yi Yundi, a faculty member from the university's Educational Development Center, and Zhao Mengling, a graduate of the School of Liberal Arts, assisted the American students in accommodation, setting the stage for the upcoming exchange activities.

The first flash-mob cultural exchange kicked off on the evening of July 2. A group of faculty members and students selected from the School of Arts and the School of Physical Education gave the delegation a systematic introduction to the cultural background and key movements of traditional Chinese dance, as well as dragon and lion dance. During the practice session, the young American participants enthusiastically followed along, mimicking the demonstrations with keen interest. Though their initial attempts were a bit unpolished, their faces were alight with enthusiasm and curiosity. Through repeated practice and mutual encouragement, the foreign guests gradually found their rhythm. The atmosphere was lively and joyful, filled with alternating bursts of applause and laughter. During the whole period, students from the School of Liberal Arts provided translation support, ensuring smooth communication and facilitating dynamic interaction between the Chinese and American participants.

The American students unanimously expressed that this exchange activity deepened their understanding and appreciation of China's traditional folk culture, allowing them to experience firsthand the country's profound culture and unique charm. They described it as an unforgettable chapter in their lives. Meanwhile, faculty members and students of Zhangjiajie College noted that the event helped strengthen cross-cultural friendships and provided valuable experience for future international cultural exchange initiatives.

This article is from the Hunan Provincial Government www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Xiao Juan

Chinese source: hunantoday