Ye Ziyao, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine

Programme: Mojiang Hani Cultural and Rural Innovation Study Camp

Partner Institution: Yunnan University

Period: July 18 - 25, 2024

This week spent in Shuigui Dazhai, Mojiang Hani Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, feels like entering the rural life of Hayao Miyazaki's movie Totoro, with lush greenery and peaceful comfort. I lived a very fulfilling and happy life every day here. I learned Hani three-needle embroidery, tasted Guineng purple rice, experienced tea picking and making, danced Hani dance, wore Hani clothes, and became a Hani girl. It was a very rare opportunity and experience.

The most profound feeling is that in the countryside, there were not only hardworking farmers, but also many lively and nice people. Here, there were those grandparents who only spoke local dialects but were hospitable, welcoming every passerby with simple language and warm smiles. The younger generations were also exploring new lifestyles, finding new sources of income through live streaming sales, and trying to bring more income to their families. The social workers and villagers in the village had a deep emotional attachment to this land. They not only understood every corner of the village, but also carried the dream of revitalizing the countryside and were committed to promoting the development of the village. They are very willing to contribute, such as setting up a farm tool exhibition hall in their own house and donating historical artefacts. The farmer and retired teachers used their voices and wisdom to spread the beautiful melody of folk songs to everyone who’s willing to listen. Even the young children showed an indomitable spirit. For example, there was a little boy who insisted on climbing up the mountain to collect tea leaves even though he had a fracture, wishing to bring some income to the family. Their story was a true portrayal of rural life and also the most touching poem on this land. Here, everyone was a lively and lovely existence, and their stories formed a colorful picture of rural life.

Here, I met social worker Hong Bin, the aunts, Grandpa Chen, Teacher Ma, enthusiastic Hani villagers, classmates from Yunnan University who came from all over the world, and alumni from different majors and grades at the University of Hong Kong. Thank you for your company. The trip only lasted for a few days, time flies, but I think it's hard for me to forget these days, this village, and these people.