Chuang Chun Ki, Faculty of Arts

Programme: "The Belt and Road Initiative" Tea Culture Exploration Camp

Partner Institution: Hubei University

Period: December 16 - 22, 2024

Through this week-long immersion in Hubei's tea culture and history, I've developed a deeper appreciation for how tea has served as a powerful bridge between Chinese and world civilizations. The program offered an exceptional blend of academic learning and hands-on cultural experiences that have transformed my understanding of China's role in global trade and cultural exchange.

What struck me most was the incredible depth and sophistication of China's tea heritage, particularly in the Hubei region. Visiting historical sites like Yangluodong's Stone Street and the Brick Tea Museum revealed how tea wasn't just a commodity but also a catalyst for cultural exchange. The lectures by professors from Hubei University provided invaluable historical context about how the Tea Road facilitated dialogue between modern Eastern and Western civilizations.

The hands-on experiences were particularly memorable. Learning traditional tea picking and processing techniques in Wufeng offered insight into the meticulous craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. Visiting modern tea factories showed how this ancient industry has evolved while maintaining its cultural essence. The contrast between historical sites like the Hanyang Bridge and contemporary production facilities illustrated China's ability to preserve tradition while embracing innovation.

What impressed me most about the program was its comprehensive approach to understanding tea culture - from academic lectures to practical experiences, from historical perspectives to modern applications. The program demonstrated how a single product like tea could shape international trade routes, influence architectural developments, and foster cross-cultural understanding.

This program has deepened my understanding of China not just as a historical civilization, but as a nation that continues to build bridges between tradition and culture, between East and West. It has shown how cultural elements like tea can serve as powerful tools for international understanding and cooperation in our contemporary world.