An international student learns the art of Xuhang straw plaiting. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Over 20 international students from countries including Morocco, Malaysia, and Russia, currently enrolled at Shanghai University's SILC Business School, recently tried their hands at Xuhang straw plaiting, a national intangible cultural heritage craft in China.
They experienced a unique cultural immersion at the Sunshine Workshop in Shanghai's Jiading district, the hometown of the heritage. The workshop was filled with the earthy aroma of dried plants as students attempted to weave yellow straw stems, guided by skilled instructors. Despite initial challenges, the students' enthusiasm was palpable.
A Malaysian student noted the differences between this craft and similar weaving traditions in her home country. "Xuhang straw plaiting is more delicate, especially the intricate starting and finishing parts," she said.
The participants were brimming with curiosity and excitement. Arij Saidi from Morocco expressed her appreciation for the craft, stating, "It offers a direct connection to Chinese culture, allowing us to feel the essence of China and Shanghai."
After an hour of focused effort, students proudly displayed their creations—charming straw ingots. Some attached them to their bags as pendants, while others playfully wore them as earrings.
Chen Jiao, a practitioner of Xuhang straw plaiting, highlighted ongoing collaborations with Shanghai universities to promote the art form. Prior to the workshop, students also toured the Xuhang straw plaiting and Jiading bamboo carving studios, gaining deeper insights into traditional Chinese crafts.