Editor's note:

A group of German teenagers from the Chinese Choir at the Burg—an ensemble known for learning Chinese through music—recently embarked on a cultural journey to Chengdu, Sichuan province, a city renowned for giant pandas and hotpot. As part of the Young Envoys Scholarship program, the students immersed themselves in local life and discovered the culture of China. Here's what they experienced in their own words.

Warmth and hospitality

The warmth and generosity of Chinese people left a deep impression on the young visitors. Arda Han Kir recalled a memorable night in Dujiangyan, Chengdu: "I immediately noticed the hospitality of the Chinese people. A few of us walked into a local restaurant and met a young man who covered all our costs. Two days later, he invited us again, brought gifts, and even drove us back to the hotel without asking for anything in return. He insisted that we were his guests here."

Jonas Müller added: "Visiting a traditional neighborhood in Dujiangyan reinforced how hospitable Chinese people are. Vendors shout ‘Welcome to China' in English. Language barriers? Sellers quickly fetch translators, showing their dedication. The warmth here is undeniable."

Nature and culture

Anna Blumek found that Chengdu's charm goes beyond urban life: "This is my third time in Chengdu. The city never grows dull. My previous visits focused on urban life. But this time, I discovered that Chengdu's surrounding landscapes are equally fascinating. Fields, mountains, and villages, it was a peaceful contrast to the city buzz. China isn't just megacities and skyscrapers. It's also stillness, nature, and moments of awe among trees and mountains."

Victoria Anna Ruhnau-Wiebusch highlighted their outdoor adventures: "We immersed ourselves in nature—pandas, rivers, and mountains. Seeing pandas for the first time was special: classic black-and-white giants and stunning red pandas. Watching a mother playfully wrestle her cubs, who tumbled or mimicked human gestures, was hilarious."

"We hiked Qingcheng Mountain for seven hours. Though grueling with endless stairs, the hike rewarded us with breathtaking views. The Taoist temples and historical narratives added depth to the experience."