China: Pakistani journalists, social media influencers explore beautiful Luoyang

Celina Ali

Luoyang: A delegation of prominent Pakistani media professionals and social media influencers embarked on an enriching visit to Luoyang Vocational and Technical College on October 17.

The 17-member group explored the School of Opera Arts, School of Cultural Heritage Conservation and Archaeology, and School of Cultural Heritage and Communication, engaging in immersive experiences such as opera makeup, cultural relics archaeology, and traditional tea ceremonies. The college president, Li Baoan, graced the occasion with his presence.

The visit began at the Ma Jinfeng Opera Art Museum, where the delegation delved into the life and legacy of Mr. Ma Jinfeng, a revered Henan Opera master and esteemed lifetime professor at the college. Guided by a knowledgeable docent, they discovered the rich history of Henan Opera and were treated to a live performance by students, who passionately sang an excerpt from the classic opera “Mu Guiying Takes Command.” The powerful vocals and captivating performance resonated deeply with the guests, drawing enthusiastic applause. Inspired, the visitors then embraced the art themselves, donning traditional opera costumes and learning the nuances of singing and performance under the guidance of students.

In the archaeology training room, the group’s curiosity was piqued by the hands-on courses in rubbing and excavation. Led by faculty and students, they learned the art of rubbing by applying ink to pads and pressing them onto clay tiles, capturing intricate patterns. The delegation then took up Luoyang shovels and engaged in simulated archaeological digs, unearthing layers of history in a realistic setting.

The awe continued in the cave temple preservation training room, where a replica of the grand Lushena Buddha statue transported the visitors to the ancient magnificence of Longmen Grottoes. They eagerly documented the moment with photographs and explored the interactive system for analyzing and restoring the Fengxian Temple.

The journey through tradition continued in the tea art training room, where members of the delegation, under expert instruction, refined their skills in brewing tea, mastering the delicate rituals of tea-making and appreciation.

The Wang Fei Paper Cutting Studio offered yet another cultural treasure, as the visitors marveled at the intricate paper-cutting works on display, drawn to the unique charm of this centuries-old art form. With guidance from the Paper-Cutting Art Research Society’s faculty and students, they even created their own exquisite paper-cutting masterpieces. In the culinary training room, the warm hospitality extended further, as the visitors were taught the fine art of dumpling making by the students and faculty of the School of Cultural Heritage and Communication, concluding the experience by savoring the delicious results together.

The Pakistani delegation departed with a deep admiration for the college’s state-of-the-art facilities and the rich variety of practical courses it offers.

Representatives from the School of Opera Arts, School of Cultural Heritage Conservation and Archaeology, School of Cultural Heritage and Communication, the International School, as well as faculty and students, took part in welcoming the delegation and showcasing the college’s cultural and educational treasures.