International students celebrate Chinese festival in Longkou

Students carefully dye their creations, a vital step in the intricate process of paper-cut window art. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On Little New Year, or Xiaonian in Chinese – a traditional celebration held about a week before the Spring Festival – international students at Yantai Nanshan University explored the rich traditions of the Spring Festival in Longkou, a county-level city in East China's Shandong province.

The event, hosted in a local community, introduced students to iconic elements of Chinese culture, starting with a workshop on Longkou's renowned paper-cut window art, a centuries-old craft embodying the essence of the Spring Festival.

Guided by Sun Shujuan, an inheritor of the craft, participants learned to create intricate designs inspired by the Year of the Snake. "Dip the brush lightly, start with lighter colors, and gradually layer the darker ones," Sun explained, demonstrating the delicate process. Maryem carefully applied her chosen hues, while Norman skillfully blended his colors, saying afterward, "This was both exciting and challenging. The guidance made all the difference."

The journey continued with a calligraphy workshop led by volunteer Zhan Qingbo. After learning of the art's historical significance, students practiced writing traditional characters with focus and care. "Calligraphy requires patience and focus," Maryem shared. "It's calming yet deeply engaging."

Students explore the art of Chinese calligraphy at a local workshop. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The day's activities concluded in a bustling community courtyard, where a market featured new year goods such as pastries, dried seafood, and huabobo, or decorative steamed buns. The students were particularly drawn to the buns, carefully crafted with intricate designs. After tasting one, one participant exclaimed, "This must be what Chinese New Year tastes like!"

From crafting and calligraphy to culinary exploration, the event offered students a meaningful introduction to the essence of the Spring Festival. By blending immersive activities with cultural exchange, it celebrated Longkou's vibrant heritage while fostering connections that transcend borders. (Edited by Hu Kaili)