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Sixty-five teachers and students from the 2025 Winter Preparatory Camp for International Organization Interns, organized by the Shanghai International Cultural Exchange Center, embarked on an educational excursion to learn about the Grand Canal in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, on Jan 21.
The group from the 2025 Winter Preparatory Camp for International Organization Interns takes a photo at Tianning Temple. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Their first stop was the solemn Shigong Ancestral Hall, built to commemorate Shi Kefa, a renowned general in the Anti-Manchu war in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) who valiantly defended Yangzhou and refused to surrender. After listening to the detailed explanations from the tour guide, the group was deeply impressed by the hero's gallantry.
"The general's patriotic spirit deeply moved me. And this makes me realize that Yangzhou is not only a city with beautiful scenery but also a city with a rich cultural heritage. That is truly admirable," a student from Huazhong Agricultural University said.
Following the visit, they toured Tianning Temple and Yechun Garden, situated along the meandering North Moat. Enthralled by their architectural allure, several students paused to take photos.
Students listen to historical explanations in the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Next, they proceeded to the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang. Through displays of historical relics, they gained a deeper understanding of the connection between the emperor and the Grand Canal. Sui Emperor Yang Guang (569-618) ordered the excavation of the Grand Canal, opening the waterways that enhanced economic and cultural exchanges between the south and north.
The highlight of the event was the food experience session in Huaiyang Cuisine Storytelling Hall. Here, students made flavorful Yangzhou fried rice under the guidance of professional chefs and competed with chefs in slicing Wensi tofu, experiencing the intricate techniques involved in crafting these two classic Huaiyang delicacies in such an engaging way.
"I didn't realize that making Yangzhou stir-fried rice was such an exact science. Each ingredient has its unique role. This is not just a delicious dish, but also a manifestation of Yangzhou's culture," one student reflected.
Another student added, "This slicing competition made me appreciate how refined Huaiyang cuisine is and I really admired the craftsmanship of the chefs."
Group members slice Wensi tofu at Huaiyang Cuisine Storytelling Hall. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
