A group of nearly 60 enthusiastic youths from Taiwan has recently embarked on an enriching cultural journey through Guangdong Province, situated in the southern part of the Chinese mainland. This excursion, spanning from October 19 to 23, aims to delve deep into the mainland’s intangible cultural heritage, provide the participants with an immersive experience in the rich and diverse culture of the region, and acquaint them with the significant developmental milestones achieved in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
This cultural exchange program traverses three key cities in the province: Foshan, Jiangmen, and Zhaoqing, each of which boasts its own unique historical and cultural footprint.
The program began on a high note in Foshan with an enthralling opening ceremony. Attendees were treated to mesmerizing performances by the city’s revered intangible cultural heritage custodians. The display of paper-cutting, the melodious strains of Cantonese Opera, and the rhythmic beats of drum dancing captured the essence of the rich traditions that Foshan holds.
Ding Xifeng, a prominent figure within the Foshan Municipal Party Committee, took to the stage during the opening event. He emphasized the profound historical and cultural bonds that have intertwined Foshan and Taiwan over the years. Furthermore, he extended an invitation to the young Taiwanese participants, urging them to share their experiences and memories of Foshan with their peers back home. His hopes rested on fostering a deeper understanding and facilitating future collaborations between the two regions.
For the participants, Foshan had a plethora of experiences in store. Their itinerary included explorations of the revered Foshan ancestral temple, the serene landscapes of Xiqiao Mountain, and insightful tours of a local exhibition hall. To ensure a hands-on experience, participants were provided with opportunities to immerse themselves in the city’s intangible cultural marvels. They trained in martial arts, witnessed the vibrant lion dances, dabbled in pottery, and savored the local cuisine.
After their cultural adventures in Foshan, the group is set to journey to Jiangmen. Here, they’ll wander through the historic lanes of Chikan Ancient Town and experience the renowned Sihui jade market. Their travels will then take them to Zhaoqing, where they will be introduced to the intricate art of making traditional glutinous rice dumplings at the Zongzi Factory.
This cultural journey is not an isolated event but is, in fact, part of an ongoing initiative by Guangdong Province. Commenced in 2014, this initiative focuses on promoting exchanges between young individuals across the Straits, aiming to bridge the cultural divide and nurture the relationship between Guangdong Province and Taiwan. This year, the program has expanded its horizons, offering participants eight distinct routes that touch upon myriad cultural facets, including rural renewal, the maritime silk road heritage, and other intangible cultural aspects.
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