Chinese and international students from Tongji University explore rural cultural vitalization in Dongxia village in Shanghai's Songjiang district. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]

A group of students from Tongji University's Zhongying Public Welfare Promotion Association's Rural Vitalization Practice Team and three students from Bangladesh recently visited Shihudang town in Shanghai's Songjiang district for a one-day rural cultural vitalization research.

At Dongxia village's Youmi Community, the students were surprised to see a specially-designed cafe, an elegant tea room, local delicacies, and various recreational facilities. "This place is amazing. It truly embodies Chinese rural culture and development," one of the international students captivated by the experience. 

The team also interviewed Chen Jie, a partner at Shanghai Settle Technology Group, who shared insights into the community's development process. According to Chen, as early as 2021, Shihudang town had initiated a deep collaboration with Shanghai Guosheng Group, which Settle belongs to, for rural vitalization, forming the "Head of Huangpu River" rural development project team. 

During their visit to the Head of Huangpu River, a scenic area in the village, the students learned about the stories of local ancestors' water usage, management, and control, as well as various myths and legends. They gained a deeper understanding of Jiangnan (south of the Yangtze River) culture, water culture, agricultural culture, and the culture of the Yangtze River Delta represented by the spot.

This exchange between local and international students in Songjiang fostered cultural exchange. It promoted mutual understanding and appreciation of rural culture, serving as a bridge for international students to experience rural China's rich heritage and development.

Tongji University students research rural cultural vitalization in Dongxia village in Shanghai's Songjiang district. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]

A specially-designed cafe at Dongxia village's Youmi Community. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]