18 students from UM led by resident fellow Dr. Caixia Chu and Dr. Ray Cheung went to Dunhuang to explore the history, arts and culture along the Silk Road from May 28 to June 7. The study trip ended up in a great success.
Students took 32-hour train from Guangzhou to Xining, which was a very unique experience for all participants. The trip provided a chance for students to see the scenery across various provinces and observe the dynamics of the community on train.
The trip started from Xining and there were several highlights. First of all, students lived in the home of local Muslim, listened to their lives as a Muslim and learned about the development of Islam in northwestern China. Second, students actively engaged in the great culture of Dunhuang by visiting the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes and the Jiayuguan Great Wall. Third, Lama of the Arou Temple explained to students the culture of the Tibetan Buddhism. Fourth, students visited the red bed landform with escarpments and learned the special geological features. When visited the Qinghai Lake, students also assisted in preservation of the great lake by cleaning the shore.
It is a very meaningful trip for students. All students reflected on their learning during the debriefing session. They learned the history of the Silk Road, the special culture of Islam and Buddhism in China, and appreciated the great arts in Dunhuang. Student Wu said it was a very special trip for him since he got the chance to see the fantastic artwork in Dunhuang and experience different cultures on the mysterious Silk Road.
Students lived in the home of a Muslim and learned about the Muslim culture in China.
The lama of a local temple explained the Tibetan Buddhism to students.
Students visited Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes
Students visited the Jiayuguang, the pass standing at the western end of the Great Wall in Ming Dynasty.
Energetic students climbed up to the top of the hill in the desert.
Students cleaning the shore of the lake.