#Path Seekers #Tea Horse Road #Grand Canal

Path Seekers: A Journey to Explore Ancient Civilizations

In the spring of 2024, an adventurous team known as the Path Seekers set out on a remarkable expedition to delve into the rich histories and connections within ancient Chinese paths. Far more than just trails etched into the Earth, these paths symbolize the evolution of Chinese civilization and its ongoing dialogue with the world.

The Routes of Discovery

The journey began with a group composed of participants from France and the United States, all guided by a Chinese historian and cultural expert. Their mission was to trace the roots of traditional Chinese customs and the exchanges that have historically occurred between diverse cultures. This endeavor encompassed several iconic routes, each revealing unique narratives of collaboration, trade, and innovation.

Tea Horse Road is revered as a significant artery of cultural integration where traders once traveled treacherous terrains to facilitate the exchange of tea and horses. David Couvidat from France reflected on how the shared aspirations of various ethnic groups shaped the vibrant tapestry of communal life along this historic trade route.

In Sichuan, the team marveled at the resilience and creativity of ancient engineering that allowed remote areas to connect with the wider world. Nathanael Dwight Pelton from America expressed his awe at witnessing how historical transportation networks converged, playing a crucial role in the establishment of the Bashu civilization, rich with cultural heritage.

At the same time, the Kaolin Road provided insights into the processes that helped establish Jingdezhen as the