Chinese culture provides extra attraction for foreign students

Shatrohan Kumar Das, from Nepal, has lived in China for eight years. The 28-year-old is a postgraduate student in Chinese language at Beijing Language and Culture University.

Chinese culture emphasizes values such as respect for seniors, filial piety and the importance of education, he said.

The culture is diverse and rich, with a history spanning thousands of years. It contains all kinds of elements, such as philosophy, art, literature, cuisine, martial arts and traditional medicine. Chinese philosophy — including Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism — has had a far-reaching influence, not only in China but also around the world, he added.

Das said Chinese art is known for its intricate detail, vibrant colors and symbolic representations. Traditional Chinese painting, calligraphy, pottery and porcelain are highly regarded forms of artistic expression that showcase beauty and elegance, he said.

Meanwhile, Chinese cuisine is colorful and renowned worldwide. Each region has its own unique traditions and flavors. From spicy dishes from Sichuan to delicate Cantonese dim sum and aromatic Beijing duck, Chinese cuisine offers a vast array of flavors, cooking techniques and ingredients, he said.

Das believes that economic growth, rising global influence and the growing popularity of the Chinese language are the main reasons that foreign people's interest in and appreciation of Chinese culture has increased significantly.

However, it's worth noting that generalizations about the country or its people can oversimplify the complexity and diversity that exist in any society. It's always best to approach individuals with an open mind and avoid stereotypes or assumptions, he said.