On April 19, 2024, about 500 students from over 10 universities across Jilin Province gathered at Jilin International Studies University (JISU) for a cultural extravaganza co-organized by the Jilin Provincial Department of Education, JISU, and the Jilin Education International Exchange Center. The event, held at JISU’s Global Village, offered participants a hands-on experience of traditional Chinese culture, showcasing the depth of the Chinese language and the unique charm of Chinese heritage.

JISU’s Vice President Wang Zhiguo opened the event with a speech highlighting the school’s achievements in international education and its role in promoting Chinese language and culture globally. He emphasized the Global Village’s significance as a hub for multicultural exchange, urging international students to become “active participants in cultural dialogue and ambassadors for mutual understanding between China and the world.”

Denis and Vanya serve the hosts of the event

The event was hosted by Denis, a Russian student from JISU, and Vanya, a Russian student from Northeast Normal University. Keynote speakers included:

Lana Petrova shares her experience of learning Chinese

Russian girl, Lana Petrova from JISU said, “For me, Chinese is not just a language—it’s a journey, a dream, and a bridge connecting me to Chinese culture. The more I learn, the more I discover its profound depth. As China develops, I am continually amazed by its inclusiveness. Chinese language and culture will remain my lifelong companions.”

Bakhtiyor Safarov shares his story in China

The Tajikistan boy, Bakhtiyor Safarov from Changchun University of Science and Technology, said, “Studying in China has given me a deep appreciation for its culture, from ancient philosophies to modern innovations. This experience has shaped my worldview and career aspirations.”  

 Chinese and foreign students from the province’s universities and colleges presented wonderful songs, dances and instrumental performances for the audience.

Jilin Sport University: National Ethos (martial arts performance)

JISU: The Scholar’s Valor (traditional fan dance)  

Changchun University: A Laugh Across the Sea (instrumental ensemble)  

Changchun University: I Love You, China

Jilin Arts College: The Drunken Concubine (Peking opera)  

Jilin University: Dancing Divas (ethnic fusion dance)  

Northeast Normal University: Echoes (choral performance)  

JISU: Young Friends Gather Together (group singing and dance)  

After the performance, the international students had a live experience of Chinese medicine, Chinese dress, Chinese tea ceremony and Chinese food.

Guzheng (zither)

    Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis

Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing)  

International students mentioned that through this Chinese culture experience activity, they were able to appreciate the melodious guzheng music and vibrant ethnic dances. They also had the opportunity to personally experience the magic of traditional Chinese medicine, the elegance of Hanfu, and the alluring flavors of Chinese cuisine, thus gaining a more intuitive understanding of Chinese culture. They feel honored to have spent an unforgettable college life in Jilin, China, and hope to achieve academic success and play an active role in the economic development and cultural exchanges between China and their own countries.

Jilin International Studies University Official Website