Nǐ hǎo!
Welcome to our adventure in Quanzhou, China! This year, DWAN 1206 AM and IBC 13 had the honor of representing the Philippines at the 2024 Maritime Silk Route Cities Event and the Philippine-Indonesian Media World Heritage Tour. Join us as we explore Quanzhou’s rich culture, history, and modern innovations.
Welcome Dinner: A Warm Reception
Our journey kicked off with a welcome dinner hosted by the Quanzhou Radio and Television Station President and media guests from around the world. It was a delightful evening, filled with anticipation and meaningful exchanges between different cultures.
Next, we visited the historic Kaiyuan Temple, renowned for its twin pagodas that have stood the test of time. This temple is a cornerstone of Quanzhou’s architectural and cultural heritage, offering a serene glimpse into the city’s spiritual history.
At the Xiaoshan Congzhou Academy site, we stepped into history as we walked through a perfectly preserved area, reflecting different dynasties that ruled China. It was like taking a time machine back to the roots of Quanzhou’s academic and cultural advancements.
One of the highlights of our visit was a behind-the-scenes tour of the Quanzhou Radio and Television Station. We got an exclusive look at how they produce content for millions of viewers across China. From news broadcasts to cultural shows, their dedication to storytelling was impressive.
Quanzhou Maritime Museum: The Trading Bridges of History
At the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, we learned about the city’s legacy as a major maritime trading hub. The museum showcases ancient bridges and boats that connected Quanzhou to the rest of the world, helping it thrive as a Silk Route city.
This visit gave us a deeper understanding of the city’s efforts to preserve its rich cultural traditions. The museum showcases everything from traditional crafts to folk customs, providing a vibrant display of Quanzhou’s living heritage.
The Shaolin Temple offered us a unique insight into Quanzhou’s harmonious blend of religions and cultures. People from different faiths coexist here, respecting each other’s traditions—a testament to the city’s inclusive spirit.
We visited the Anta Innovation Space, home to China’s number-one shoe brand. Anta’s involvement in the Olympic Games demonstrates its cutting-edge approach to sportswear while staying true to its roots in Chinese craftsmanship.
A sweet stop on our journey was Panpan Foods Corp, where we had the chance to taste some of the best pastries in China. Known for their innovation and quality, Panpan’s pastries have become a beloved treat across the country, and it was a delicious highlight of the tour!
Our next stop was the Anping Bridge, one of the longest ancient stone bridges in China. Spanning centuries, this bridge served as a crucial trade and transport route, linking people and goods across Quanzhou.
At the Brick Cultural Experience Pavilion, we had the chance to get creative by making traditional Chinese lanterns. It was an interactive and fun experience, allowing us to connect with Quanzhou’s vibrant cultural heritage in a hands-on way.
A heartwarming moment during our tour was visiting Jose Rizal Square in Jinjiang, a tribute to our national hero. It was an inspiring reminder of the historical connection between the Philippines and China, celebrated in this symbolic space.
The Jinjiang Wulin Traditional Village showed us how Quanzhou preserves its rich history and old villages. Walking through the village felt like stepping back in time, as locals kept their traditions alive while welcoming tourists from around the world.
At the Shunmei Ceramic Cultural Pavilion, we witnessed the production of exquisite ceramics made for international brands like Disney. Their craftsmanship showcases how local art can reach global markets while maintaining cultural integrity.
One of the most breathtaking stops on our tour was Dehua Stone Ox Mountain, where we had the thrilling experience of walking across the glass bridge suspended between the mountains. The view from the bridge was spectacular, offering panoramic scenes of the natural beauty surrounding us. It was both exhilarating and peaceful, a perfect blend of nature and modern design.
The Luoyang Bridge was another stop on our historical journey. This ancient stone bridge has been connecting communities for centuries, a symbol of Quanzhou’s engineering prowess and trade significance.
Our destination was the Luoyang Indonesian Folk Culture Park, where we explored the deep cultural ties between China and Indonesia. The park’s displays of folk traditions and history reminded us of the enduring connections between nations.
As our tour came to an end, we attended a farewell dinner where we reflected on the incredible experiences we had. The connections we made and the lessons we learned will stay with us forever.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Quanzhou Radio and Television Station for inviting us to this unforgettable event. A special thanks to IBC 13’s Chinatown TV and Mrs. Lolita Ching for continuing to promote cultural exchanges through media. Representing the Philippines on this incredible journey has been a true honor!
Photo Courtesy: Christian Manalili
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