International students at Donghua University gathered to celebrate the Double Ninth Festival by crafting handmade soaps and learning about traditional Chinese culture during a workshop held ahead of the festival.

Organized by the university's international education center, the activity began with an introduction to the history and cultural significance of the Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, a traditional Chinese festival dedicated to honoring and respecting the elderly, which fell on Oct 18, 2026.

The teacher also explained how traditional customs, such as climbing to high places, admiring chrysanthemums, and honoring the elderly, reflect wishes for health and longevity.

Students also learned about different types of soap, comparing the raw materials and uses of ancient soap products with those of modern counterparts. Under the teacher's guidance, participants made their own soap bars by grating soap bases into fine strands, kneading the strands into smooth, firm balls, coating them with fragrance powder, and pressing them into molds.

"This was my first time making handmade soap, and every step, from grating to molding, was full of surprises! After learning about the Chongyang Festival customs, I plan to give this soap to my grandmother and wish her health and longevity," one student said.

Another student said the teacher's explanation of the differences between ancient and modern soaps was eye-opening, noting that turning soap strands into a finished piece felt like creating a small work of art.

Source: Official WeChat account of Donghua University International Education Center