In early July, the English Department of Yuet Wah College organised a five-day historical and cultural study trip to Beijing for 30 students and 2 staff members. This ‘Experience the Learning Journey of Mountains and Cities’ focused on culture, history, and technology. By visiting several iconic sites, teachers and students deeply appreciated the charm of Chinese culture while enhancing their sense of national identity and international perspective.
Upon arriving in Beijing, the first stop for the group was Wangfujing Street. This commercial street, which blends tradition and modernity, allowed students to experience the collision of old Beijing snacks with contemporary shopping, providing a direct understanding of the evolution of urban commercial development.
The next day, the group visited Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China. At Tiananmen Square, students explored iconic buildings such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes, reflecting on significant chapters of modern Chinese history. The National Museum showcased precious artefacts that systematically presented the evolution of 5,000 years of Chinese civilisation, deepening students’ understanding of national history. In the afternoon, visits to the China Science and Technology Museum, the National Stadium, and the Water Cube allowed students to closely engage with masterpieces of modern technology and architecture, igniting their interest in scientific exploration.
The third day’s itinerary was filled with a sense of historical depth and technological prowess. Climbing the Juyong Pass, students not only admired the grandeur of ancient defensive architecture but also experienced the sentiment of ‘One who fails to reach the Great Wall is not a true man,’ gaining a profound understanding of the resilience and unity symbolised by the Great Wall. The subsequent visit to the China Aviation Museum showcased the development of China’s aviation industry, with numerous aircraft exhibits and simulators immersing students in the fascinating world of aviation technology. That afternoon, the ruins of the Yuanmingyuan Park prompted reflections on the contrast between the garden’s former glory and its current state of ruins, evoking deep thoughts about historical vicissitudes and national rejuvenation.
The group also visited Happy Valley Beijing. Among various amusement attractions, students not only experienced joy but also connected the physics concepts from their textbooks to real-life applications, deepening their understanding of scientific principles. Team activities and a gala dinner further strengthened friendships among classmates.
Finally, a visit to the Memorial Hall of Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site of Beijing concluded the study trip on a high note. Through exploring the tunnel sites and related exhibitions, students gained insights into the wisdom and courage of the Chinese people during the Anti-Japanese War, deeply appreciating the spirit of unity and struggle that defined the resistance, further stirring their patriotic feelings and sense of historical responsibility.
Upon concluding their trip to Beijing, participating teachers and students expressed that the study activity was rich in content and well-organised, not only expanding their knowledge and horizons but also deepening their understanding of Chinese culture and national development through practical experience. This activity closely aligned with the educational goals of cultivating a sense of national identity and international perspective outlined in Macau’s ‘Medium- and Long-term Planning for Non-Tertiary Education,’ adding a significant chapter to the students’ growth journey.

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