A group of international students from Shanghai University of Political Science and Law recently visited Dongmao village in Liantang town, Qingpu district, for an immersive rural experience that combined agricultural discovery with traditional craftsmanship.

Led by Shen Jiahui, an inheritor of Liantang's intangible cultural heritage of homespun cloth dyeing and weaving, the students began their journey in the village's wild rice stem fields and cooperatives.

Surrounded by the fresh scent of aquatic plants, they were surprised to learn that the tender, bamboo shoot-like wild rice stems could be eaten raw. Excited to taste them, the students picked some on the spot and praised their crispy texture and natural sweetness.

The students also tried their hands at two local intangible cultural heritage crafts: weaving with wild rice stem leaves and dyeing homespun cloth. Ordinary leaves were transformed into delicate handmade creations, while wooden shuttles flew back and forth on looms amid rhythmic clacking sounds. Engaged and exchanging tips, the participants learned with joy, immersed in the process of creating with their own hands.

From savoring freshly picked wild rice stems in the field to experiencing China's intangible heritage through craft, this unique encounter with the countryside went beyond a handicraft session, evolving into a meaningful dialogue with cultural traditions.

Source: Official WeChat account of Green Qingpu at "iloveqingpu"