Intl students embrace Shandong folk culture in Weihai

More than 20 international students from various countries recently immersed themselves in the intangible cultural heritage (ICH) of Jiaodong area during a special Qingming festival event on Shandong University's Weihai campus in East China's Shandong province. The activity aimed to promote cross-cultural understanding through hands‑on folk experiences.

Through cultural lectures, interactive workshops and holiday food making, the event served as a cultural bridge between China and other nations.

Zhang Yanru, a Jiaodong paper‑cutting artist, explained the art's history and symbolism. Students then tried their hands at cutting intricate patterns, gaining a deeper appreciation for this traditional craft.

Students show off their paper-cutting works. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Another highlight was making "spring swallows" from dough – a northern Chinese Qingming custom symbolizing renewal and good fortune. Using naturally colored dough, students shaped lively swallow figures under the guidance of locals. They also learned to make qingtuan, a green glutinous rice dumpling associated with the festival.

International students experience dough making under the guidance of locals. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"This is my first time experiencing the full range of Qingming customs," said Nitsha Woramarich from Thailand. "I truly felt the warmth and depth of traditional Chinese culture and the beauty of China's ICH."

Students pose for a photo with the dough swallows they made. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

（chinadaily.com.cn）