UN Staff Experience Ancient Chinese Culture in Nanjing
Fifty UN staff members were treated to a traditional Chinese cultural experience at Confucius Temple in Nanjing, immersing themselves in the city's rich heritage and artistic traditions.
In a captivating event held at the historic Confucius Temple in Nanjing, over fifty United Nations staff members were treated to an immersive cultural experience that showcased the city's deep historical roots and artistic traditions. The event began with a serene performance of the intangible cultural heritage of the erhu, a traditional Chinese two-stringed fiddle, played with a graceful and expressive style. The sound was accompanied by students reciting the classic poem 'The Ballad of Mulan,' a powerful narrative of a young woman who disguised herself as a man to fight in the war, demonstrating the timeless appeal of classical Chinese literature. The staff, many of whom were foreign, were visibly moved, with many pulling out their smartphones to capture the moment and whispering in awe.
In the immersive intangible cultural heritage experience zone, the atmosphere was even more vibrant. Participants had the opportunity to engage in the ancient art of woodblock printing, a technique that has been used in China for over a thousand years. They watched as artisans demonstrated the meticulous process of inking, laying paper, and gently pressing to create their own unique prints. The experience was not just about the final product but also about the appreciation of the craft and the history behind it.
The event also featured a calligraphy station where attendees, despite their initial lack of experience, took up the challenge of writing Chinese characters with bamboo brushes on rice paper. The act of writing, with its focus on precision and flow, was a meditative experience that allowed participants to connect with the essence of Chinese culture.
As the event drew to a close, everyone boarded a traditional秦淮画舫 (Qinhuai painting boat), a wooden vessel that has been a symbol of Nanjing's waterways for centuries. The boat glided smoothly along the Qinhuai River, offering a breathtaking view of the city's famous water town scenery. The night sky was a canvas of twinkling lights, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming lotus flowers. The experience was a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty, allowing the participants to fully immerse themselves in the essence of金陵 (Jinling), the ancient name for Nanjing.
The event was not just a celebration of Nanjing's cultural heritage but also a testament to the universal appeal of traditional Chinese arts and crafts. It provided a unique opportunity for the UN staff to engage with and appreciate the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for the nation's diverse and vibrant traditions. For those who attended, the experience was a memorable one, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and depth of Chinese civilization.