Students at Fudan University pose with their handwritten folding fans in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, on Dec 15, 2018. [Photo/fudan.edu.cn]

Chinese and international postgraduates at Fudan University took a two-day trip to Suzhou, a historic city in neighboring Jiangsu province, on Dec 15 and 16, 2018.

The ancient town of Mudu, boasting tranquil landscapes and distinctive private gardens, was the first stop for the students. Enchanted by the Chinese saying about local gardens, which states that every step is a different scene, the students marveled at the delicate designs and the ideas of ancient architects and engaged themselves in a variety of Chinese cultural activities, such as painting on paper umbrellas and trying their hands at Chinese calligraphy on folding fans.

During the second day of their trip, they visited Suzhou Museum, getting enlightened from master Ieoh Ming Pei’s modern architectural designs and being totally immersed in the harmony of Eastern and Western cultures.

The Hanshan Temple where many classic poems and literary works were conceived is also a must-see destination in Suzhou. The students got to learn about the temple’s history, how it was named, and visited many typical Buddhist architectures there.

On their way back to Shanghai, the students expressed their excitement and inspiration, they said the trip meant a lot for them, not only getting a close look at classic Chinese buildings, but also getting first-hand understanding of the profound culture. They look forward to taking more trips in the future.

Chinese and international postgraduates at Fudan University pose for a group photo at the Hanshan Temple in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, on Dec 16, 2018. [Photo/fudan.edu.cn]