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Discovering the Chinese World: Spanish Students Dive into Language and Culture in 2025

2025-09-04

In mid-August 2025, Shanghai Jiao Tong University's School of Humanities meticulously organized a vibrant Chinese language and culture immersion program for Spanish university students participating in "Stepping into the Chinese World." Over three action-packed days, students from Spain and Portugal experienced Shanghai's unique fusion of cutting-edge modernity and profound historical heritage.

Shanghai Unveiled: Where Ancient Meets Future

On August 15, the exploration began at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Through intricate models and interactive displays, students traced the city's developmental journey, while lively discussions unraveled the historical origins behind the name "Shanghai Bund" and the significance of the character "滩" (tān).

That afternoon, the group stepped into Yu Garden – a masterpiece of classical Jiangnan design. As they wandered through exquisite pavilions and winding corridors, students became cultural detectives, identifying legendary Three Kingdoms figures in the garden's ornate roof sculptures while absorbing its artistic essence.

As night fell, a Huangpu River cruise unveiled Shanghai's dual personality: the dazzling symphony of skyscrapers' lights reflecting on the water, showcasing the metropolis' pulsating vitality as a global hub.

Zhujiajiao: Journey Through Water Town Poetry

On August 16, students traveled to Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Gliding through narrow canals on traditional awning boats, they observed white-walled, black-tiled architecture and locals' tranquil daily rhythms along stone-paved alleys – witnessing a living Jiangnan landscape scroll unfold before them.

For many first-time visitors, this immersive experience shattered preconceptions, revealing China's harmonious balance between rapid modernization and timeless cultural preservation.

Cultural Resonance: Bonds and Revelations

Beyond sightseeing, the program fostered deep cultural connections. Students gained firsthand understanding of China's linguistic nuances and societal evolution, with many expressing transformed perspectives. In post-trip reflections, participants unanimously shared how this journey ignited lasting fascination with Chinese culture. Numerous students declared intentions to return for Mandarin studies or further exploration of China's regional diversity, carrying home not just souvenirs but renewed commitment to cross-cultural understanding.

Written and Photographed by Kan Peilin

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