Following the classroom sessions, pottery workshops and tech explorations on November 6-7, YES Program: French faculty and Students Attend Specialized Study at Shanghai Donghai College (SDC) stepped into a more profound cultural immersion journey on November 8-9. From the time-honored rhythm of leaping dragons and lions to the vibrant bustle of ancient towns and city lanes, this two-day immersive experience transformed the French students from “cultural onlookers” into “experiential participants”.
November8 Resonating Dragon Rhythm and Exploring Commercial Streets
Understanding Eastern Essence Through Dragon and Lion Dances
In the morning, within the training hall of Shanghai Dragon & Lion Dance Association, crimson silk ribbons swirling around golden-scaled dragons, a yellow dragon soared into the air amid resounding drumbeats —– the performance by Shanghai Sanlin Dragon Dance Troupe set the scene ablaze instantly. The performers stepped with unwavering steadiness, as the yellow dragon coiled like rising green peaks and stretched like surging rivers. Movements such as “Dragon Raises Its Head” and “Dragon Swings Its Tail” were performed with flawless precision, vividly embodying the dragon’s majesty and agility. Unlike the serene pottery creation of the previous two days, this dynamic folk art held the French students spellbound, with camera shutters clicking in harmony with drumbeats to compose a cross-cultural melody.
As the drumbeats faded, under the coordination of Zhao Wenqiang, Secretary-General of Shanghai Dragon & Lion Dance Association (YES program special consultant), national-level coach Zhang Xinyue delivered a theoretical lecture. His lucid explanation unfolded the tapestry of dragon and lion culture, equipping the students with a systematic understanding of its historical origins and cultural essence. Animated discussions between Chinese and French faculty and students further deepened their cultural insights.
The theoretical groundwork paved the way for a spectacular practical session. After national-level coaches Jiang Yiming and Xu Zhekai demonstrated dragon dance techniques, the French students stepped up eagerly. Coaches offered one-on-one guidance to refine their postures, and the hall erupted in joy and a sense of achievement when the students flawlessly executed the “swimming dragon” movement. National-level coaches Chen Guanfeng and Wang Bing elaborated on lion head manipulation, allowing students to don lion heads and perform moves like “probing” and “leaping” as instructed, experiencing vivid cultural expression through hands-on interaction. The colored ribbon dragon session led by national-level coaches Gao Jie and Bian Saichen sent the atmosphere soaring to a climax – colored ribbons fluttered gracefully in the students’ hands, their gentle yet forceful movements embodying the elegance of Eastern aesthetics. A group photo concluded the session, marking a perfect finale to the dragon and lion experience.
Strolling on Nanjing Road: Shanghai Style in a Century-old Commercial Street
Lunch at McDonald’s turned into a cross-cultural communication hub: Chinese and French faculty and students chatted with translation apps and gestures bridging language gaps, filling the air with laughter. The post-lunch mall excursion enabled the students to soak in the vitality of modern Shanghai, with many picking up Chinese-style souvenirs. In the afternoon, sunlight bathed Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, known as “China's No.1 Commercial Street” – a quintessential window to experience Shanghai’s commercial vibrancy. Time-honored establishments and modern malls stood in harmonious juxtaposition: the European-style dome of Yongan Department Store, the enticing aroma of Shanghai No.1 Food Store, and rows of trendy boutiques epitomized the inheritance and innovation of Shanghai's commerce. The French students wandered leisurely, admiring the streetscape and selecting items from silk scarves to cultural and creative products. As their shopping bags grew heavier, they asked accompanying SDC students about the stories behind the goods, their conversations blending into the street's hustle and bustle, deepening their understanding of Shanghai.
In the evening, along the Huangpu River, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the “Gallery of World Architecture”. Armed with building-hunting tasks, the students strolled along the Bund, cross-referencing maps to locate landmarks and inquiring about the buildings’ histories from SDC faculty and students. Upon completing the task, all faculty and students posed for a group photo in front of Peace Hotel, their smiles glowing against the century-old edifice – a perfect conclusion to the November 8 itinerary.
November 9 Wandering Through Streets & Savoring Ancient Town Charm
If November 8 was a “clash between tradition and modernity”, November 9’s citywalk was an “in-depth exploration of its nuances”. Along Wukang Building, Anfu Road and Middle Wulumuqi Road, the students visited celebrities’ former residences and distinctive buildings, savoring Shanghai’s unique allure beneath the shade of plane trees. Literary boutiques and local vibes along the way slowly unveiled the city’s distinctive persona.
Tasting the Ancient Town: Warmth and Vitality of Qibao
The afternoon trip to Qibao Ancient Town was steeped in rustic charm. On the bluestone paths, the students wandered amid traditional stores, greeted by the enticing aromas of braised pork, rice cakes and Qibao wine. Many French students ventured to try local snacks like stinky tofu, savoring the ancient town’s charm through their taste buds. By the small bridges and flowing waters, they exchanged simple greetings with local residents – a heartfelt “hello” or “thank you” conveying cross-cultural goodwill.
The journey marches on, yet friendship has struck deep roots. When French aviation dreams meet Chinese cultural heritage, the bonds forged amidst dragon and lion drumbeats and city streets will undoubtedly become a solid bridge connecting youth from East and West. After all, aircraft wings span the globe, but culture and friendship can transcend continents and oceans. Stay tuned for more highlights!
