When our plane touched down in Beijing, on Tuesday, October 29, I felt a charge in the cool evening air. This was my first time in Asia. I was there as one of a group of Rwandan journalists hosted by the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA).
We were ready to experience not only famous sites but also the everyday beauty of Chinese culture and tradition. From Beijing’s modernity to Zhejiang’s rural charm and Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, our journey promised layers of discovery.
Beijing: An opener to Chinese heritage
Our first morning in Beijing, on October 30, started with a visit to Farmers’ Daily Newspaper, a publication deeply tied to China’s agricultural roots. Listening to the editors’ stories about China’s rural heritage, it was clear that even amid modernization, this connection to the land remains vital.
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In the afternoon, we attended a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We had a meeting with the ministry’s communications person who shared perspectives on China’s global role, its relationship with other countries, and so on and so forth. We then had a photo moment.
One thing I quickly learned, greetings in English rarely drew responses. It wasn’t a matter of indifference, but simply a language gap. Eventually, I resorted to basic Mandarin words, nǐ hǎo (hello), and the reaction was heartwarming, smiles, nods, and even small bows from the people I greeted.
Communication proved challenging in places like hotels, where gestures became our common language. Thankfully, Sun, our guide, ensured we had everything we needed. His translations and attention to detail made our stay comfortable, so any initial fears about language faded away.
Later, over a welcome dinner hosted by the ACJA, we delved into the world of Chinese journalism. We heard about how the profession had improved in recent years and were given small gifts as tokens of friendship. The meal was memorable, one of many where food played a central role in building connections.
Zhejiang: The countryside’s charm and cultural depth
Our journey continued with a flight to Taizhou in Zhejiang province. Here, the bustling cityscape gave way to misty mountains and ancient architecture. Rain drizzled on Linhai City as we explored the Jiangnan Great Wall, an awe-inspiring structure winding over lush, green hills.
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In Tiantai County, we visited Guoqing Temple, built in the 6th century. Known as the birthplace of the Tiantai Buddhist sect, the temple exuded an aura of tranquillity and reverence. People of various nationalities quietly offered prayers before different Buddhas, seeking blessings, health, or prosperity.
Plates of fruit lay at each Buddha’s feet as offerings, symbols of gratitude and respect. This visit to Guoqing Temple gave us a glimpse of China’s deep spiritual roots and reminded us of the beauty in honouring tradition.
We headed to Tahou village of Tiantai County, Taizhou. Situated at the foot of Chicheng Mountain in Tiantai county, the village boasts rich tourism resources. The simplicity of village life was grounding, the air smelled fresh, with a hint of damp earth after the rain.
The following day, we attended the Global Forum on Hehe Culture, whose focus was on the progress of human civilization. We toured museums like the Linhai Museum.
Hangzhou and Shanghai: A blend of nature, business, and innovation
The following day, we travelled by car to Hangzhou, known for the famous West Lake. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its pagodas, temples, and bridges, looks like a scene out of an ancient painting. The calm lake mirrored the blue sky and weeping willows, inviting visitors to slow down and take in the view. For centuries, West Lake has inspired Chinese poets and artists.
One evening, we toured the Qiantang River. Here, Chinese families, couples, and friends strolled along the riverbank, enjoying the reflection of city lights on the water and the gentle strains of music in the air. The evening’s quiet beauty was a reminder that locals enjoy these cultural treasures as much as any visitor, fostering a sense of shared enjoyment.
The following day, we had lunch hosted by the Chair of Zhejiang Journalists’Association, amidst great conversation and we ended with a toast to health and happiness. Toasts happened often during meals.
Throughout the trip, meals were a sensory adventure. Each table was filled with vibrant dishes, from seafood to vegetables to various meats, emphasizing fresh ingredients and natural flavours. I tasted duck, various seafood, and tried using chopsticks (with moderate success!).
Our interpreter, Grace, helped guide us through the unfamiliar names and flavours, enriching the experience with her explanations of each dish’s cultural significance. Interestingly, the Chinese do not add sugar to tea, preferring the natural taste of food, a mark of their respect for health.
As we travelled through Hangzhou and beyond, I noticed the clean, green roads lined with lush greenery and bike lanes. Cycling is a staple of daily life here, with locals navigating the streets effortlessly on bikes. The sight of people cycling in the early morning or evening, whether commuting or exercising, made it clear that biking is an integral part of the culture.
It also became clear that this lifestyle contributes to the health of many Chinese citizens. With their emphasis on fresh food, fruits, and vegetables, combined with a strong cycling culture, it’s no wonder that many of the people here maintain a lean physique, prioritizing a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Finally, we arrived in Shanghai. The city’s skyline, dotted with sleek, modern towers, stood in stark contrast to the serene landscapes we had just left. Shanghai pulsed with energy, its skyscrapers glowing against the night.
One of the most memorable parts of this leg was a boat cruise along the Huangpu River, where we enjoyed views of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, from the historic Bund to the modern Pudong skyscrapers. The sight was breathtaking, with soft Chinese music playing in the background. We laughed, made new friends, and took countless photos, capturing moments we would cherish long after the trip ended.
On our last full day, November 5, we attended the China International Import Expo (CIIE), an event showcasing global products and innovation. The scale and variety of the expo were astounding and underlined Shanghai’s role as a global commercial hub.
Cultural reflections and lasting impressions
China is a country that speaks in layers, each one offering a richer story than the last. The warmth we encountered, the deep-rooted respect for history, and the everyday grace in the lives of the people we met left an indelible mark.
As Mark Twain said, "One must travel to learn,” and this journey through Beijing, Zhejiang, and Shanghai was exactly that, a chance to learn and to understand.
Our trip was more than a series of destinations. It was an experience that deepened my appreciation for tradition, broadened my perspective, and filled me with memories. The sights, sounds, and flavours of China came alive, and I know that I would return in a heartbeat to experience it all over again.