The 17th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest Study Tour (26 July – 3 August 2025)

Four Secondary 3-4 representatives from our school participated in the 17th Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest and achieved encouraging results, receiving a 9-day study tour to Beijing and Shandong as an award. This journey offered eye-opening experiences of cultural exploration, traversing ancient and modern times while seamlessly integrating humanity and technology.

We arrived in Beijing Capital International Airport in the afternoon on 26 July. Our journey began at the very heart of Chinese diplomacy. At the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse (釣魚台國賓館), we witnessed the harmonious fusion of Chinese and Western landscape architecture and building styles. More significantly, we gained a deep appreciation for the historical significance of the development of New China’s diplomacy embodied in the structures. Our subsequent visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (外交部) included the opportunity to observe a regular press briefing. The spokesperson Mr Guo Jiakun’s (郭嘉昆) composure, coupled with the sincere sharing by young diplomats, transformed the concept of “major-country diplomacy” (大國外交) from an abstraction into a tangible experience of the rigorous professionalism behind it.

Beyond diplomacy, this journey led us to explore both the foundations of Chinese civilization and its dynamic contemporary development. At the National Museum of China (中國國家博物館), we were awestruck by its collection of over 1.4 million precious artifacts. From the dignified grandeur of bronze to the serene elegance of porcelain, each piece unveiled for us the mysteries of China’s time-honoured history. Within the solemn halls of the Museum of the Communist Party of China (中國共產黨歷史展覽館), we observed a wealth of historical documents and artifacts demonstrating a spirit of unity and resoluteness. Simultaneously, our visit to the Xiaomi Auto Super Factory (小米汽車超級工廠) showcased the perfect integration of fully automated production lines and cutting-edge technology, demonstrating the immense future potential of “Made in China.”

  

Traveling south from the capital Beijing to Shandong Province, the landscape and experiences shifted. In Jinan, we were enchanted by the poetic scenery of Daming Lake (大明湖), and activities like stone rubbing (拓印) and Hanfu dressing (漢服體驗) transported us across time, allowing us to experience first-hand the refined pastimes of ancient scholars. At the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion in Qufu (孔廟、孔林、孔府), we delved into the essence of Confucian thought (儒家思想), marvelling at the wisdom of the ancient sages. Two spectacular immersive theatrical performances brilliantly fused history and drama, delivering dazzling artistic enjoyment.

 

The pinnacle of our journey was undoubtedly the ascent of Mount Tai (泰山), revered as the “Eastern Peak” (東嶽), and we managed to reach its summit at Jade Emperor Peak (玉皇頂). Under clear skies and gentle breezes, we were deeply impressed by the panoramic view, the majestic grandeur of Mount Tai, and the historical weight of the Dai Temple (岱廟) – the site of imperial Feng and Shan ceremonies (封禪大典) throughout the dynasties. On Liugong Island (劉公島), the Museum of the First Sino-Japanese War (中國甲午戰爭博物館) served as a solemn reminder to remember history.

Although unexpected heavy rain necessitated some itinerary adjustments, this did not diminish our deep sense of fulfilment. From modern factories to solemn historical museums, from the bustling frontlines of diplomacy to the serene summit of Mount Tai, each destination was like a piece of a grand mosaic. Together, they formed a vivid and magnificent panorama of China, granting us a richer understanding of the nation’s past, present, and future.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Education Bureau, the Better Hong Kong Foundation, and The Hong Kong Jockey Club for their generous provision of this invaluable learning opportunity. We would also like to thank our tour guide, Mr. Kong, for his insightful commentary at each destination, which significantly enriched our knowledge. Moreover, we must thank Mrs. Hau, our teacher-in-charge, for chaperoning us and making the experience a fun and safe one for us. Lastly, thanks must be given to Mrs. Lau for her continuous guidance and support to the team, and encouraging us to explore more to broaden our horizons.