My encounter with China: a glimpse into Changdai village

Changdai village

As an international student at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, I had the chance to join the Explore China program. This trip was truly eye-opening and enjoyable for me. During the course of my travels, I had the opportunity to gain insight into China's diverse culture,  community values, and fast-paced urban lifestyle. From learning the art of tie-dyeing cloth  and experiencing Shaoxing opera to exploring Changdai village and visiting the Wahaha factory, each  experience  offered  a  unique  glimpse   into  China's  rich  tapestry   of  traditions   and  modernity.   Against   the    backdrop    of   China's    profound    history    and    contemporary  advancements, this immersive experience has had a profound and lasting impact on me.
Among all the places I visited, Hangzhou’s natural beauty stood out me the most. Visiting Changdai Village provided a quiet escape from city life, letting me connect with China’s respect for nature and their dedication to preserving natural beauty. The first time I visited this village was in winter, with misty weather and the tea trees were still small. Nonetheless, I was charmed by the village's peaceful atmosphere, far from city noise. The fresh air there brought a unique calm, and I heard that in spring, the village blooms beautifully. Thanks to my Explore China class (感知中国课), I got the chance to visit Changdai village again. This second visit deepened my understanding of the village's projects. Changdai had transformed, with bright flowers and lush tea fields. Set in Hangzhou’s calm landscapes, the village, rich in history and surrounded by green nature, became a canvas for meaningful exploration and cultural experience. I was once again enchanted by the village’s peaceful vibe, which was so different from the metropolitan scenes I’m used to in China. The green tea fields around the village created a sense of peace and a connection to nature, making the experience profound and inspiring further exploration.
During this second visit, I learned that the tea gardens now use modern technology, like drone cameras for monitoring and automated watering systems, showing how the village embraces modern innovation while preserving its traditional roots. In my winter visit, there was no basketball court, but on my second visit, I found a newly built one. This court provides more recreational facilities for both locals and visitors, encouraging social interactions and physical activities in a relaxed setting. Changdai Village was chosen in 2022 as a model for future development by Zhejiang Province. Stepping into the village felt like entering a time tunnel, with traces of history in every corner, and art elements everywhere—from tech exhibits to craft areas featuring jewelry, clothing, and ceramics.
As I walked around, statues scattered in the tea plantations enriched my experience in Changdai Village. These meaningful moments helped me better understand Chinese culture and rural life. Beyond its natural beauty, I also had the chance to explore the famous Longjing tea plantations, a spiritual place for Changdai Village. Walking among the tea bushes, , I learned the meticulous art of tea cultivation, which has kept Hangzhou respected in tea culture for centuries. Located in Xihu District, Hangzhou, Changdai Village represents a fusion of traditional village culture with modern development ideas. The village is a pioneering project in preserving traditional architectural styles and rural life while integrating modern facilities, bridging tradition with modernity.
Besides cultural exploration, my experience in Changdai Village also encouraged the development of valuable relationships and cross-cultural interactions. This cultural exchange helps bridge differences and fosters mutual understanding. Reflecting on my time in Changdai Village, I feel this journey was not just about self-discovery but also cultural enlightenment, reinforcing my belief in the importance of cultural heritage preservation in an increasingly global world. Concluding my journey in Changdai Village, I brought back fond memories and valuable lessons that will continue to shape my perspective and aspirations. The village not only offers modern amenities like a cultural exhibition center, craft shops, and restaurants, but it also creates opportunities for locals to boost their income, strengthening the village’s economic development and sustainability.
Beyond that, Changdai Village is also committed to preserving its cultural heritage and history, promoting sustainable development and environmental protection. This approach not only creates new jobs but also diversifies income sources for the local community, ensuring long-term well-being. As a community center and gathering place, Changdai Village promotes social cohesion and a sense of belonging among its residents. Through the Explore China program, I was given a platform to uncover Hangzhou’s hidden charms and deepen my cross-cultural understanding through shared moments of laughter and learning.
My experience in Changdai Village has broadened my perspective, motivating me to support cultural exchange as a path to a more connected world. I am truly grateful for the friendships made and lessons learned during this journey, which have deepened my admiration for Chinese culture. Changdai Village reflects the richness of Chinese culture and the resilience of its people, offering valuable insights into sustainable development that harmonizes traditional heritage with modern practices. This initiative serves as a remarkable example of how tradition can thrive alongside progress, providing a blueprint for future efforts in cultural preservation and community development.
Source：Hangzhoufeel