Exchange Programme with The Affiliated High School of Peking University (7-11 April 2025)
The Beijing exchange tour was a perfect opportunity for us Hong Kong teenagers to have a better understanding of our country’s recent development. From engaging lessons in Peking University Affiliated High School to spectacular visits to monumental landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Great Wall of China and more, we had a relaxing but fruitful time.
It still seems like yesterday that we had to wake up at six in the morning, just to get changed and rush downstairs for an early but warm morning meal, then immediately head to the classrooms with our buddies to have lessons. Here are some unforgettable memories that were unique to this exchange programme, and most importantly, unique to the city, Beijing.
Both the buddies and teachers expressed their warmest welcome at our arrival. We experienced a different teaching and learning experience at Peking University Affiliated High School, which broadened our horizons. Attending for the first time Physics and Chemistry lessons in Chinese, we struggled with brand-new terminology. However, the teachers guided us through the questions, and simplified complicated concepts into theories that we could easily understand.
The 3-storey gymnasium was amazing. Table tennis, badminton, basketball and many other sports are offered for students to enjoy in their free time. Within the building, we also enjoyed traditional Chinese dance lessons. Most importantly, we were lucky enough to attend the closing ceremony of the Football Championships in the gymnasium along with our host students, witnessing one of the four sporting highlights.
The morning mist still clung to the ancient stones of the Great Wall when our group reached the Juyongguan Pass section. As we ran our fingers along the weathered bricks, feeling the same grooves that countless hands had touched over six centuries, it hit us that this was not just a tourist attraction – it was the physical embodiment of Chinese resilience. Our history teacher's words echoed in our minds: “The Wall wasn’t built to divide, but to protect our civilization.” Suddenly, textbook descriptions transformed into tangible reality beneath our feet.
Wangfujing's neon lights initially overwhelmed our senses, but observing the seamless blend of traditional tea houses with global brands revealed China's cultural confidence. An elderly calligrapher demonstrating his art outside a Starbucks captured this duality perfectly – his elegant oriental brushstrokes juxtaposed with the exotic coffee aroma. Nearby, the sound of sizzling scorpion skewers at the night market reminded us how culinary traditions have persisted even amidst modernization.
The Forbidden City's scale overwhelmed us, but it was the intricate details that spoke volumes – the number of animal statues on roof corners indicating a building’s importance, the hidden drainage systems demonstrating ancient engineering brilliance. Our guide explained how the palace's layout reflected Confucian principles of order and harmony, helping us understand how traditional values shaped even our architecture.
This exchange did more than show us historical sites - it taught us that cultural heritage is not frozen in textbooks but lives in how we preserve traditions while embracing progress. From students studying in university classrooms to artisans practicing centuries-old crafts, we saw how Chinese civilization continues to evolve while staying rooted in history. The trip has inspired us to look beyond dates in History textbooks and see our heritage as a living, breathing legacy that we all help shape.
One of the most memorable aspects of the programme was immersing ourselves in the interactive learning of traditional Chinese arts, particularly calligraphy and guqin. During the calligraphy workshop, we did not just observe—we actively practiced under the guidance of a calligrapher. The teacher encouraged us to experiment with brushstrokes, explaining how each movement reflects balance and intention. What began as shaky lines transformed into elegant characters as we shared laughter and feedback with classmates. The hands-on approach, paired with the teacher’s stories about historical poets and philosophers, turned ink and paper into a dynamic dialogue between the past and the present.
Participating in the Beijing exchange programme has been an eye-opening journey that deepened our understanding of China’s rich cultural heritage and modern development. Visiting historical landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall allowed us to witness the grandeur of ancient Chinese civilization firsthand. Walking through these sites, we felt a profound connection to the stories of emperors, artisans, and ordinary people who shaped China’s history. The juxtaposition of these timeless structures against Beijing’s bustling cityscape highlighted the delicate balance between tradition and innovation in contemporary Chinese society.
On a personal level, this trip taught us resilience and adaptability. Navigating new environments, adjusting to new routines, and embracing unfamiliar customs pushed us out of our comfort zones. Moments like sharing meals with local hosts at the school canteen became cherished memories that embodied the warmth and hospitality of the people we met. This experience reinforced the importance of curiosity and humility when exploring new cultures. We returned home filled with gratitude for the friendships formed, lessons learned, and a renewed commitment to fostering global connections.
Summary of exchange
Day 1
Upon arrival, we set out to explore an enchanting area filled with history and tradition - Beijing Ancient Cultural Street (古文化街). The streets were adorned with glowing lanterns and intricate infrastructure, including traditional watchtower and courtyard-style homes, showcasing the timeless beauty of Beijing’s neighbourhoods. The cobblestone paths were lined with bustling stalls selling a variety of goods, from handmade crafts and calligraphy scrolls to delicate tea sets and vibrant embroidered textiles. The air was filled with a blend of aromas—herbal teas, sizzling skewers, and freshly steamed buns—hinting at the culinary delights Beijing had to offer.
Local delicacies were an essential part of the experience. Vendors offered pear milk custard, a refreshing drink with a subtle sweetness, alongside fermented mung bean juice, a traditional Beijing specialty with an especially distinctive taste. The aroma of sour plum soup, a tangy and cooling beverage perfect for balancing the rich flavours of the street food, permeated through the air. Everywhere we turned, we discovered tempting snacks—from crispy sesame pancakes to savoury lamb skewers grilled over charcoal.
Later in the evening, we enjoyed a feast of authentic local dishes. The star of the meal was the iconic Beijing roast duck, served with its famously crispy skin and tender meat, paired with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce. We savoured bowls of rich duck broth brimming with vegetables and soft tofu. Succulent braised beef rounded out the meal, offering a hearty and flavourful complement to the lighter dishes. The variety and depth of the flavours provided an amazing introduction to Beijing's culinary heritage, a perfect start to a perfect journey.
Day 2
We first stopped by the dining hall to enjoy a scrumptious fare of local breakfast delicacies. We then went back down to the courtyard, where we were greeted by our buddy, who guided us around the school.
In the classrooms we participated in some lectures and observed how the capital’s students attended school. The first two lessons were Physics, involving concepts of volume and density. Although the concepts taught were very advanced and difficult for some of us who did not study Physics, we enjoyed challenging ourselves to try to follow a lesson in a subject in a low-stakes environment. We also found that we were able to step out of our comfort zone and learnt Math in Chinese as opposed to English. We had a brief exercise session in between the lessons to relax and enjoy the sun before going back upstairs for a self-study session.
After the lessons, we went back to the dining hall to refuel and chatted with our buddies. The variety of food on offer was mind-blowing, as we could choose from many cuisines – traditional Sichuan poached fish to spaghetti and even stone pot Bibimbap. Our buddies took us on a campus tour. As we ambled around the vast grounds, we were astonished by the extensive facilities and resources available at this school.
We then traveled to Beijing University via the subway, where we embarked on a tour of the campus grounds and were treated to some fascinating stories of the school’s rich history behind the architecture. Some undergraduates there shared with us the challenges they faced and what subjects they were currently pursuing, assuring us that studying at Beijing University is not only academically rewarding, but also very fulfilling socially and personally, if time is managed well.
After dinner, we had the opportunity to spend some free time at a nearby shopping complex. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day packed with activities and our group spent some time together at a karaoke booth too.
Day 3
Early in the morning, we headed to the Forbidden City (故宮), where we soaked in centuries of its history and marveling at its architectural beauty, while our tour guide brought the past to life, weaving vivid tales of emperors, dynasties, and the secrets hidden within the palace walls.
Guided by our knowledgeable tour guide, we wandered through a labyrinth of courtyards, pavilions, and imperial halls, each with its own story. The Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿), the largest and most awe-inspiring structure, stood at the complex’s core. Here, emperors once ascended their dragon throne to issue decrees, oversee grand ceremonies, and receive tributes from across the empire. Our guide explained how its intricate design — featuring mythical creatures adorning the roof ridges and a central ramp carved with imperial dragons reflected the cosmic order and the emperor’s role as the “Son of Heaven”.
For lunch, we savoured authentic local dishes at Great Wall Beijing Local Cuisine Restaurant (長城北京鄉土菜), enjoying hearty flavours that celebrated northern Chinese traditions.
Energized, we ventured to the Juyongguan Pass (居庸關) section of the Great Wall, hiking along its ancient, precipitous paths and taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Stepping onto the wall, we were immediately struck by its raw, untamed character. Unlike the meticulously restored sections like Badaling, Juyongguan retains a rugged authenticity. The steep, uneven stone steps and sloping battlements challenged our stamina, but every stop to catch our breath rewarded us with sweeping vistas of emerald valleys and serpentine walls disappearing into mist-shrouded peaks.
After descending, we returned to the city for a lively afternoon of shopping at Wangfujing Street (王府井), exploring its bustling shops and vibrant street stalls for souvenirs. We entered the pedestrian thoroughfare beneath towering billboards and neon lights, greeted by the rhythmic hum of chatter, clinking teacups, and the occasional melody drifting from storefront speakers. Wangfujing’s charm lies in its contrasts: sleek glass-and-steel malls housing global luxury brands stand beside century-old lao zi hao (老字号, time-honoured Chinese shops), their gilded signboards hinting at generations of craftsmanship. To wrap up the day, we gathered for a hot pot dinner, dipping fresh meats, vegetables, and noodles into simmering broths—a perfect end to our third day. Finally, we returned to our dorm, tired but fulfilled, reminiscing about a day packed with history, culture, and shared memories.
Day 4
Our day began with breakfast at the university cafeteria, where we lined up to receive our meals. The dining hall was bustling with students, and the sounds of conversation and clinking tableware filled the air. After eating, we proceeded to the subway station for our morning excursion.
The subway was crowded, as expected during peak hours, but we managed to board efficiently. Upon arriving at our destination, we explored the traditional ‘hutong’ alleys, observing the historic architecture and local life. The narrow lanes, lined with gray brick walls and old courtyard homes, provided a glimpse into Beijing's past.
For lunch, we visited a local restaurant serving traditional Beijing cuisine. Dishes such as ‘zhajiangmian’ (noodle dish with soybean paste) and ‘jiaoquan’ (fried dough rings) were served, along with the distinctive ‘douzhi’ (fermented mung bean beverage). While some of us found the ‘douzhi’ challenging, others appreciated its unique flavour.
We returned to the campus by 1:00 pm. Half of our group attended a calligraphy class in the East Building, where we practiced basic brush techniques under the guidance of the instructor. Meanwhile, the other half participated in a traditional dance session in the gymnasium.
After a short break, we switched activities—those who had practiced calligraphy moved to a street dance workshop, where we collaborated with students from Peking University High School. The exchange was engaging, allowing us to learn new movements while interacting with peers from another institution. Those who had previously taken dance then transitioned to calligraphy, where we worked on fundamental strokes.
A separate group attended a ‘guqin’ (Chinese zither) class in the sunken theater, where the instructor introduced us to the instrument’s history and basic playing techniques. The resonant tones of the ‘guqin’ provided a calming contrast to the day’s earlier activities.
Dinner was served back at the university cafeteria, where we reflected on the day’s experiences over a shared meal. The workshops had offered us valuable insights into traditional Chinese arts, and the cultural immersion deepened our appreciation for Beijing’s heritage.
By the end of the day, we had not only expanded our skills but also strengthened our understanding of Chinese culture through direct participation. The packed yet fulfilling schedule ensured that we gained both knowledge and memorable experiences.
Day 5
On the last day of the trip, we explored the fascinating Beijing Capital Museum. Exhibits showcased themes such as folk traditions, festivals, and customs, as well as insights into China’s international relations and architectural innovations like the concept of the central axis. Seasonal displays were particularly captivating: summer exhibits highlighted the creativity behind fan designs, while winter sections featured traditional methods of staying warm, including heated brick beds and hand warmers. Another exhibition focused on porcelain, showcasing exquisite pieces that reflected the artistry and craftsmanship of different dynasties, from delicate designs to intricate glazing techniques. All in all, the entire journey through Beijing's history and traditions left a lasting impression, blending culinary delights throughout the trip with cultural treasures.
After that, it was time to bid farewell to Beijing. However, we were notified that our plane was delayed by several hours after we checked in. Although some of us were understandably disappointed, it gave us more time to spend at the airport and we indulged in some mouth-watering spaghetti and explored more of the airport together before boarding the flight.