In rural Weinan, Shaanxi, UNNC student Peng Yufei witnessed Laoqiang Opera, a traditional opera form, performed by its sole female inheritor. "Her voice was gentle at first, but when she started singing, it was incredibly powerful," Peng recalled.
This summer, UNNC students travelled to three regions—Tengchong, Jingning, and Weinan—to explore intangible cultural heritage including ancient papermaking, oil-paper umbrellas, She embroidery, puppetry, and shadow play.
They tried their hands at these crafts and gained firsthand appreciation for the skill and patience they demand. From harvesting tree bark for paper to controlling precise knife work on leather, students discovered the immense dedication behind each art form. In She villages, they also learned traditional embroidery and experienced local customs through shared meals and dance.
Beyond the crafts themselves, students gained deeper insights into the living value of these traditions—supporting rural communities and preserving cultural identity. Some were inspired to become cultural ambassadors in their own right, committed to sharing Chinese heritage on global platforms.
This initiative is part of UNNC's largest and longest-running social practice programme, now in its twentieth year, involving over 3,000 students. Through teamwork—planning, coordinating, and adapting in unfamiliar environments—participants strengthened their skills in communication, collaboration, and leadership. The experience also broadened their perspectives and deepened their cultural confidence, adding a meaningful layer to their international education.
Published on 03 August 2026