Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
Experiencer
By Muhammad Aqeel Fiaz
“TCM Goes Global: A Gen Z City Experience Officer Event--Medicinal Cuisine Culture Discovery Tour” was held at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (ZCMU) on Apr 20, coinciding with International Chinese Language Day and the solar term Grain Rain. The air at the ZCMU Museum buzzed with excitement as students from around the world gathered to celebrate an event that turned into much more than a language appreciation day--it became a beautiful bridge between cultures. The warmth shown by Chinese families, the hands-on experience of making traditional cakes, and the insightful exchanges made it a day none of us will ever forget.
From the moment we stepped in, the museum felt alive with conversation and laughter. Chinese families greeted us with smiles, eager to share stories about their traditions and daily lives. What struck many of us was how effortlessly some of them switched between Mandarin and English, making the discussions even more engaging. We talked about everything--from the significance of seasonal festivals to the deeper meanings behind Chinese idioms. It was fascinating to see how language carries so much culture within it, and these interactions offered us a glimpse into the heart of Chinese society.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was learning to make traditional Chinese cakes. We were given a soft, pliable dough and guided through the process of shaping it into small rounds before pressing them into intricately carved wooden molds called sancha. With a firm tap, delicate cakes emerged, adorned with floral patterns and lucky symbols. It was amazing how such a simple technique could produce such beautiful results. Professor Jiang Liqin from the School of Pharmacy even took a moment to explain the health benefits of the ingredients, linking the activity to traditional Chinese beliefs about food and wellness.
The event took an even more heartfelt turn when a young Chinese girl stepped forward to recite a poem about balancing one’s diet according to the solar terms. Her clear voice and the poetic wisdom of eating in harmony with nature left everyone impressed. It was a touching reminder of how deeply rooted these traditions are, even in the younger generation.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. Between the cake-making, the conversations, and the media coverage capturing it all, Chinese Language Day became more than just an event--it was a celebration of unity, curiosity, and mutual respect. As I walked away, I carried not only a box of handmade cakes but also a deeper appreciation for how language, food, and tradition bring people together. Hangzhou has a way of making everyone feel at home, and this day was a perfect example of that.