On October 30, more than 130 international students and faculty members from the International Education Center at Donghua University (DHU) visited the Dongzha scenic area in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, to explore the historic water town.

Canals, stone bridges, and trees lining the waterways captured the character of a traditional Chinese water town.

Working in groups, students matched the Chinese words on their cards to the town’s stone bridges, waterways, and white walls. With these features around them, students could relate the vocabulary they were learning to their surroundings.

The group then visited local museums showcasing folk culture. Antique beds, wooden carvings, and household objects offered students a glimpse into everyday life in the town in earlier times.

The students also visited the former residence of Mao Dun, a prominent Chinese novelist and literary critic. Dating back to the Qing dynasty, the residence retains architectural features of the period.

Strolling through the lanes of the water town, the students experienced its local culture.

The visit extended Chinese-language learning beyond the classroom, allowing students to put their language skills into practice while exploring Wuzhen’s history and local culture. Participants also gathered for a group photo to mark the visit.

Source: Donghua University