#China #Tea Culture #Giant Panda #Ya'an

Ya'an in Dialogue with the World: A Cultural Exchange Experience

On September 9, participants of the "Ya'an in Dialogue with the World" cultural exchange program embarked on a journey through Ya'an, a city renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This initiative, co-hosted by the Center for Europe and Africa of the China International Communications Group and the Publicity Department of the CPC Ya'an Municipal Committee, aimed to deepen understanding of Ya'an’s traditions and its significance in the realms of tea culture and giant panda conservation.

The program began at the Bifengxia Base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, located in Yucheng District. Here, international attendees had the opportunity to engage with the adorable giant pandas, a species synonymous with China's wildlife conservation efforts. François Tchiegue, the ambassador for China-Africa Cultural Exchanges from Cameroon, shared his excitement after walking across a see-through suspension bridge in the scenic area, stating, "Simply breathing here is a delight." The breathtaking scenery left a lasting impression on all participants, while the experience of feeding the pandas added a unique thrill to the visit.

As the day progressed, visitors were introduced to the "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains" ecological sightseeing tea garden, a vast expanse dedicated to sustainable tea cultivation. Rogers Saffa-Woya, the minister of the Embassy of Sierra Leone in China, expressed his awe, noting, "This is the first time I have seen such a vast tea garden." His enthusiasm for China’s tea culture was palpable as he envisioned sharing his experiences with his family back home.

The Mengding Mountain Tea History Museum, the only thematic museum in Sichuan dedicated to tea culture, offered a deep dive into the legacy of tea production in China. As guests wandered through the exhibits, they were introduced to ancient tea-making tools, artifacts celebrating the illustrious history of Mengding tea, and the legendary figure Wu Lizhen, believed to be the first person to cultivate tea during the Western Han Dynasty, dating back over a thousand years. The immersive experience, which included hands-on activities like tea picking and stir-frying, allowed guests to appreciate the art and labor involved in one of China’s most celebrated beverages.

Known affectionately as the "Lung of Sichuan," Ya'an serves not only as the historical cradle of giant panda culture but also as a pivotal location in the evolution of tea culture worldwide. This cultural exchange allowed participants to gain insights into the values embedded in the local culture, to see beyond the surface-level beauty of the region, and to appreciate the stories that shape its identity.

Ultimately, the "Ya'an in Dialogue with the World" event was more than just a journey through scenic landscapes; it was an opportunity for cultural appreciation and international camaraderie. As local traditions and global perspectives intertwined, the program fostered an environment of understanding and friendship that is essential in today's interconnected world. By the end of the day, guests left with not only a list of memories but with a deeper appreciation for a culture that is as rich as it is welcoming, embodying the spirit of Sichuan's natural and historical treasures.