On the afternoon of December 12, the College of International Education held a cultural exchange activity with the theme of "Blending Chinese and Western Tea Art: A Snowy Solstice Gathering" in Classroom 301. More than 40 participants attended the event, including all staff from the School of International Education and the Office of International Cooperation and Exchanges, foreign teachers, and international students.
At the beginning of the activity, Xie Pengcheng, Dean and Party Secretary of the College of International Education, delivered a speech. He first extended a warm welcome to all teachers, foreign educators, and international students, emphasizing the vital role of cultural exchange in enhancing mutual understanding and friendship. Dean Xie pointed out that diancha (Song Dynasty tea whisking), as a crucial component of Song Dynasty tea culture, not only carries profound historical and cultural heritage but also serves as a brilliant calling card for traditional Chinese culture in international exchanges. He hoped that through this activity, participants could personally experience the charm of diancha and deepen their understanding and love for traditional Chinese culture.
Subsequently, the audience enjoyed a wonderful demonstration of Song Dynasty diancha tea art. Dressed in Song Dynasty attire, the tea master skillfully performed the diancha ritual—from grinding tea, sifting tea, waiting for the optimal water temperature, warming the cup, mixing the paste, to whisking—every step reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship of Song Dynasty tea culture. Following this, a lecture titled "The Beauty of Song Dynasty Diancha Art" unveiled the mysteries of diancha, detailing its historical origin, tea utensils, and procedures. Through vivid explanations and rich visual displays, participants gained a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of diancha art.
Under the guidance of tea art instructors, teachers and students actively tried their hands at diancha. From initial clumsiness to gradually getting the hang of it, they experienced the joy and allure of diancha through hands-on practice. Beyond mastering the basic steps and techniques, they appreciated the profoundness of Song Dynasty tea culture while savoring the aroma of tea.
This cultural exchange activity not only provided a platform for teachers and students to showcase and learn but also promoted the integration of Chinese and foreign cultures, enhancing friendship and mutual understanding. In the future, the School of International Education will continue to organize diverse cultural exchange activities, contributing to the promotion of Sino-foreign cultural exchanges and cooperation.(Written by Zhang Tong; Reviewed by Guo Li)
