Amidst the backdrop of the flowing Yangtze River, the profoundness of Chinese culture and history unfurled for a group of international journalists visiting iconic landmarks. Their journey through China offered a deeper insight than any literature could provide, unveiling the intricate tapestry of China’s civilization through first-hand experiences.
At the historic Yellow Crane Tower in Wuhan, Mortada Abdelkhalik Abdelaziz Taha, manager of Kuwaiti media outlet Alarab, reflected on the allure of China. Having known China as a land of industry, he discovered a world where nature’s beauty and the warmth of its people added to its rich tapestry, creating a multifaceted portrait of a nation often simplified in foreign narratives.
The group, comprising journalists from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries, traversed a cultural path from October 20 to 28, exploring the Yuelu Academy and Yellow Crane Tower among other sites. These visits offered an immersive dive into the deep waters of Chinese history and culture, which for centuries have flowed as vast and endless as the Yangtze itself.
Their explorations began with the discovery of China’s ancient liquor culture at the Kweichow Moutai Group in Guizhou Province. The production of Moutai, a spirit with over eight centuries of history, fascinated the visitors. This traditional Chinese liquor, known for its unique brewing process, stands shoulder to shoulder with global giants like Scotch whisky and French Cognac brandy. Observing the Moutai production and packaging plant, the journalists were surprised to find meticulous human craftsmanship still at the heart of the process in an age of technological advancement.
As they tasted Moutai, they delved into the complexities of its production, which left a lasting impression on the visitors. Despite preconceived notions shaped by films like “Red Sorghum,” the reality of Moutai’s expansive production scale and deep-rooted cultural significance astounded them. It revealed the pride and tradition enshrined in every bottle, a testament to the artistry and history of Chinese brewing.
The group’s cultural odyssey led them to the Yuelu Academy in Changsha, Hunan Province. This ancient seat of learning, established in 976 during the Northern Song Dynasty, remains a beacon of educational excellence. The academy, which has evolved into a part of Hunan University, stands as a testament to China’s enduring respect for rigorous scholarship and academic freedom. The journalists learned how the academy fostered a spirit of practicality and openness that still thrives in China’s education system today.
The apex of the visit was the ascent of the Yellow Crane Tower, an architectural marvel with over a millennium of history. There, journalists like Mortada Abdelkhalik Abdelaziz Taha were struck by the city of Wuhan’s blend of art, poetry, and scientific advancement. The tower provided a vantage point not just over the sprawling landscape but also over the convergence of past and present, innovation and tradition.
Throughout their journey, these journalists experienced the dynamic story of China—its transition from ancient civilization to modern powerhouse, its cultural wealth and educational heritage, and the remarkable people who embody the spirit of a nation. This trip has expanded their perspectives, illustrating the depth and breadth of Chinese culture in a way that transcends the written word, inviting a lifelong quest for understanding.
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