In Dialogue with China Study Trip – Intercollegiate Encounters in Shenyang 2025/2026
The Office of Student Affairs successfully held the “In Dialogue with China Study Trip – Intercollegiate Encounters in Shenyang 2025–2026,” from 28 December 2025 to 4 January 2026. The visit was joined and supported by the Associate Vice-President (Student Experience) and University Dean of Students, Professor Ko Wing-hung, and the Director of Student Affairs, Ms. Elaine Tam, whose presence greatly enhanced the learning experience of the group.
Sixteen CUHK students from a wide range of academic backgrounds joined this enriching week‑long journey, engaging deeply with the local universities, cultural, and historical landscape of Northeast China. The trip provided valuable opportunities for students to broaden their worldviews, connect with local communities, and reflect on China’s diverse regional development.
Local Universities Visit
Throughout the tour, students visited five higher education institutions: Shenyang Sport University, Shenyang Agricultural University, Liaoning Provincial College of Communications, Shenyang University of Technology, and the Shenyang Conservatory of Music.
Students explored state‑of‑the‑art sports laboratories, engineering workshops, agricultural research centres, and vocational training facilities. Through guided tours, demonstrations, and conversations with Mainland students, participants gained insight into how different regions develop academic priorities based on local needs, industry demand, and cultural heritage. Many students reflected that the experience broadened their understanding of Mainland higher education beyond textbook impressions.
Cultural Immersion and Historical Learning
The itinerary also emphasized experiential learning through history. Visits to the Shenyang Imperial Palace, Zhang Xueliang Former Residence, and the “9.18” Historical Museum deepened students’ understanding of Shenyang’s pivotal role in Chinese history, particularly its significance in the late Qing period, the Republican era, and the events of the Northeast during the 20th century.
Students were encouraged to observe, question, and reflect on how historical memory is preserved and interpreted through architecture, exhibitions, and local narratives. These immersive experiences helped them connect historical events to contemporary identity, national development, and regional transformation.
At the China Industrial Museum and Shenyang Financial Museum, students examined the shifting economic landscape of Northeast China—once the nation’s industrial base—gaining perspective on how technological change, urban renewal, and policy reforms have shaped the region’s modern trajectory.
Winter Snowy Experience and Local Connections
A highlight of the programme was the skiing experience at Baiqingzhai Ski Resort, where many students enjoyed their first encounter with Northeast China’s iconic winter landscape.
Students also had opportunities to engage with local communities, taste regional cuisine, and explore the bustling Zhongjie district during evening outings.
Student Growth and Reflection
Throughout the journey, students demonstrated remarkable curiosity, openness, and adaptability. Immersing themselves in a new environment encouraged them to reflect on cultural differences, regional histories, and the evolving relationship between Hong Kong and Mainland China.
CHAN Nga Man, one of the student participants, studying in Year 1, Chinese Language Studies and Chinese Language Education, reflected after the Shenyang tour: “We always say that Hong Kong is an international city, but this visit to Shenyang made me reflect on the so-called global citizens, who should not only look at the world and the future, but also identify with and understand their own historical and cultural roots. This exchange allowed me to gain an in-depth understanding of Shenyang’s culture under the cold north wind, jumping away from the fast-paced city of Hong Kong, leaving unforgettable and precious memories in the historic northeastern city, and broadening my horizons, allowing me to face the future with a humbler and more open attitude.”
Another student WONG Ka Faat, studying in Year 2, History, also shared his experience from the tour: “On a personal level, this journey was a lesson in intellectual humility and adaptive growth. I return not just with souvenirs, but with a renewed commitment to engaging with the world thoughtfully, carrying both Shenyang’s historical solemnity and Hong Kong’s vibrant spirit as complementary guides in my ongoing development as a truly global citizen. I will learn from their enthusiasm and eloquence to enrich my future.”
Student LAM Yan Ying, studying in Year 1, Chinese Language Studies and Chinese Language Education, also reflected that: “After visiting different universities in Shenyang, I can feel the country’s perfect planning for development and academics. Talents in all aspects also ensure that they can receive adequate training to serve the country. I build confident that my different abilities and talents can contribute to the country as well.”
The Shenyang tour thus became not only an educational experience but also a journey of personal growth, strengthening students’ cultural awareness, maturity, and sense of belonging.
