During the Easter holidays, the nine of us embarked on an unforgettable study tour in Beijing, organised in partnership with Beijing No.15 High School. Our goal was simple yet profound, to immerse ourselves in Beijing’s culture, broaden our horizons and create lasting memories beyond the classroom.
We gathered at Hong Kong International Airport, a mix of excitement and nerves coursing through us. Upon landing in Beijing, our local teachers greeted us with warm smiles and fresh flowers, accompanied by a delicious restaurant they knew of. That evening, we checked into our accommodation, eager for the week ahead.
The second day was particularly special. We spent time with our study buddies, savouring the scrumptious Peking Duck and capturing the beauty of Beijing’s cherry blossoms. Some of us explored museums with our friends, while others opted for a picnic trip or a cycling adventure. We gained not only knowledge but also a deeper understanding of everyday Beijing life.
We attended classes at Beijing No.15 High School. While the subjects were familiar, the teaching style was refreshing and engaging. Our passionate teachers enthusiastically showed us around the school, and the welcoming students made us feel like we were at home even amidst the bustling city. To cap off our experience, we tried our hand at paper-cutting, a surprisingly challenging yet rewarding activity.
“He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true hero,” we realised. The steep and uneven steps tested our resolve, but we persevered. Reaching the summit of the Great Wall of China, we were rewarded with a breathtaking view that instantly justified the arduous journey. We also participated in a martial arts class using fans, a harmonious blend of strength and grace. Many of us proudly succeeded in our attempt to spin the diabolo, which was an eye-opening yet rewarding experience.
Universal Studios was a pure day of fun! We zipped between zones like Minions, Harry Potter and Transformers, enjoying 4D rides and roller coasters. We made the most of our time, rushing from the restaurant to the rollercoaster to ensure every moment was spent well. We genuinely didn’t want to leave!
At the Capital Museum in Beijing, history truly came alive. The intricate carvings and grand halls told stories of emperors past, from ancient civilisation to modern China. It left us in awe, filled with a sense of pride for our country. We then wandered through Qianmen and the hutongs, discovering blind boxes, souvenirs and hidden craft shops. The blend of ancient and modern was unforgettable.
Our final morning began with more classes with our friends. After lunch, we exchanged contact details and took photos on the lawn. As our bus departed, our Beijing friends stood at the school gate waving and shouting goodbye. Their figures faded but their voices remained in our hearts.
This seven-day tour taught us more than culture or history. It instilled independence, resilience and the beauty of cross-cultural friendship. We already miss our friends and can’t wait to welcome them to Hong Kong soon. As we say: 再见,一定会再一次见面.
4C Chu Pak Sze
4F Lee, Yuet Tung Eudora
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