Intl students explore Ningbo's spring traditions

The international students participate in the bamboo shoot harvesting experience. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A group of international students from Ningbo University recently set off on a spring excursion, exploring the the traditions and natural beauty of rural Ningbo.

These students from the Netherlands, Pakistan, Romania, and elsewhere, visited Lingxia village in Fenghua district to take part in the university's "Walking Cultural Classroom" program.

Led by Li Hong, the village's Party secretary, they ventured into the bamboo forests where they learned how to harvest bamboo shoots. "This is a 'huang ni gong' bamboo shoot," Li said, holding up a freshly unearthed one, "Its tip is bright yellow, covered in a layer of yellow dirt, and if you smell it, there's a hint of sweetness."

With careful swings of their hoes, the students dug up one shoot after another.

"This is amazing! Look at the size of this one!" said Thomas Meijer from the Netherlands.

In addition to bamboo harvesting, the students also had the opportunity to experience tea-picking in a local tea garden. Under the guidance of local farmers, they learned the delicate art of picking and sorting tea leaves, gaining valuable insights into the region's agricultural practices.

"We didn't come to Lingxia village just to explore green industries and ecological development but also to offer international students an immersive cultural experience," said Wu Min, deputy Party secretary of Ningbo University's Business School, "Through activities like this, we aim to get local and international youth to share their cultures, broadening the global understanding of China's rich traditions."

The international students pick tea leaves in a tea garden. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]