Visiting students explored how Shanghai neighborhoods blend tradition and innovation in community life during a hands-on tour of Hongkou district.

On July 17, 19 American students from the Chinese Language Program at Shanghai International Studies University and six Chinese Government Scholarship students from Egypt, Sudan, Nigeria, Russia, and the Republic of Korea stepped into Hongkou as both observers and participants. They aimed to better understand how Shanghai communities integrate efficient governance with cultural heritage.

At the heart of a local neighborhood lounge, residents performed a traditional Shanghai-style yangge dance, and the students eagerly mimicked the handkerchief-twirling moves. Nearby, in a recreation room, others joined residents in spirited ping-pong matches.

At a citizen service center, the students got a close-up look at everyday services that exemplify smart yet warmhearted governance, from public canteens and one-stop self-service kiosks to family doctor services. They even experienced traditional Chinese medicine, including cupping and diagnostic consultations. A Russian student was astonished by the accuracy of a TCM doctor's pulse reading: "That's spot on!" he remarked.

The visit also included a tie-dye workshop. Guided by instructors, students used traditional techniques to craft colorful silk scarves reflecting Chinese aesthetics.

Chinemerem Nora Nneamaka Umeokwuegbu, a Nigerian doctoral student in diplomacy, shared her reflection: "This was my first time putting my academic training to the test in real-life community settings. I realized that true global perspective starts with understanding the dialect spoken just outside your door."

Egyptian graduate student Mai Ramadan Abdeltawab Abdelhamid noted the vibrancy of local senior citizens' lives, which she said had become a familiar sight in China. "What truly moved me," she added, "was how genuinely warm and welcoming the locals were."

Fellow Egyptian Shady Magdy Hafez Elwishy, a doctoral student in translation studies, said the visit deepened his understanding of the diversity and inclusiveness in Chinese communities. "It helped me feel more connected and at home in China," he said.

Source: Official WeChat account of SISU Office of International Student Affairs at "Study_in_SISU"