From July 20 to 22, 2024, the Yichang section of the Hubei Jingchu cultural experience and exchange program for the new generation of overseas Chinese descent, was held. The event was sponsored by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Hubei Province and hosted by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Yichang City. Nearly 50 young people of Chinese descent from different countries and regions such as Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, Ireland, and Canada came to embark on a journey exploring the allure of Chinese culture.

　　During their stay in Yichang, the participants embarked on a diverse itinerary, visiting sites that showcased Yichang’s green transformation and innovative development. They toured the New Materials Industrial Park of Xingfa Group Co., Ltd, Hubei Angel Biotechnology Group Co., Ltd., Yangtze River Protection Education Base, 424 Park, Yichang City Planning Exhibition Hall, gaining insights into the eco-friendly and forward-thinking progress of Yichang. Moreover, they were awestruck by the majestic engineering feats of the Three Gorges Dam and the Gezhouba Dam, experiencing firsthand the grandeur of these national key projects. Their cultural exploration continued with visits to the Xiling Gorge and the Temple of Qu Yuan, where they immersed themselves in the rich historical narrative of the region. Rounding off their immersive experience, the participants witnessed traditional cultural performances, including the renowned “Three Gorges Ceremony,” further enhancing their appreciation for the unique charm of Yichang’s historical and cultural heritage.

　　“This is indeed my first visit to Yichang. I know it is the hometown of the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, whom I learned about in my Chinese textbooks as a child. The Three Gorges Dam is truly awe-inspiring. I sincerely hope that through platforms like the Malaysia-China Friendship Association, I can help facilitate a deeper understanding of China and Yichang among my overseas friends.” Expressed Ye Zhihua, a fourth-generation overseas Chinese descent from Malaysia with great enthusiasm. “This activity holds immense significance for us. It has provided a window for the new generation of overseas Chinese like myself to experience China’s prosperity and strength firsthand, thereby fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared Chinese culture,” said Jiang Chun, a participant from Australia, expressing her sentiments warmly. (Reporter/Sun Xiaoling, Correspondent/Li Jianchun)