On December 31, 2024, at the invitation of the Xuhui District Bureau of Culture and Tourism, the College of International Education organised nearly 50 international students from countries including Germany, Italy, Spain, Pakistan, Colombia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Malaysia, and Tanzania to participate in the "2025 Shanghai New Year’s First Tour" event.
One of the event's highlights was its expansion to a new, popular landmark, GATE M West Bund Dream Center. This vibrant waterfront carnival, paired with the traditional "Evening Bell Ringing at Longhua Temple," created a unique scene blending ancient and modern charm for the "First Tour." At the West Bund Dream Center, international students strolled along the glittering Huangpu River, watched a stunning light and drone show at the dock area, enjoyed ice dancing performances at the open-air rink, and experienced festive flash performances by an orchestra. They also explored the riverside wooden cabins, filled with a variety of market goods, fully immersing themselves in the festive New Year atmosphere.
Photo caption: Group photo at West Bund Dream Center
Photo caption: Drone light show at West Bund Dream Center
The group then visited Longhua Square, where they experienced classic activities under the dazzling lights of the festive night sky. Activities included dragon and lion dances, browsing the New Year’s Post Office, and ringing the ancient temple bell. They also enjoyed a cultural performance that incorporated elements such as dragon and lion dances, acrobatics, traditional Chinese music and dance, and the intangible cultural heritage of rolling lanterns. Representatives of Chinese and international students from ECUST took to the stage to sing "Tomorrow Will Be Better", showcasing the inclusiveness and harmony of Shanghai’s multicultural heritage.
Photo caption: ECUST Chinese and international student representatives singing
"Tomorrow Will Be Better"
Photo caption: Ahmed (ECUST student from UAE)
and Yousef (ECUST student from Saudi Arabia)
Photo caption: Watching cultural performances at Longhua Square
Photo caption: Experiencing the bell-ringing at Longhua Temple
Laura, a student from Germany, enthusiastically remarked, "I love the culture here, and I hope my Chinese will improve. I’ve always known about the grandeur of Chinese New Year, but I didn’t expect New Year’s Day to be this lively too!" Through this event, international students not only experienced the historical and modern charm of Shanghai but also gained a deep appreciation of Chinese New Year traditions and cultural festivities.
The "Perception of China" series of extracurricular activities is an important initiative by the university to guide international students in "understanding China through knowledge and action." In the future, the university will continue to promote the integration of classroom education and social practice, expand the diversity and dimensions of cultural and national education, and strive to cultivate international ambassadors who celebrate and promote Chinese culture. This initiative aims to inspire international students to contribute to a shared vision of global civilization.
