Documenting a grand journey

The other explorer, 29-year-old Luden, is pursuing her master's degree at the Shanghai Theatre Academy. She began learning Chinese at age 10 and came to China on vacation in 2008. She has lived in China on and off for about four years.

Similar to Newham, she was awestruck by the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City in Hangzhou, saying it was "indescribable and magic" when she stood in the same place as people from ancient times.

Highlighting "discovery" and "history" as keywords for the cultural journey, Luden learned a lot of specific details on the journey, knowledge she wouldn't have gotten from everyday life or reading books. She was particularly touched by her visit to Dunhuang, Gansu province, a place she always wanted to visit.

"I am fascinated by the language, especially the writing. I'm passionate about the ancient writing system; and beautiful art in Dunhuang that has been passed down by generations to continue drawing and preserving it. I think art is also more than pretty paintings. It shows you a way of life and how people think about it. I was impressed by the beauty and whole culture that it carries," she says.

This echoes the production team's expectations. Ao Xue, director in chief of the documentary, tells China Daily: "With this documentary, I would like to show overseas audiences a culturally prosperous China. Chinese people value their culture, protect heritages, respect traditions, and have a love for education.

"Taking culture as the carrier, we hope to show the spiritual world of the Chinese people and make audiences understand China better. It will be exciting if they gain interest in the country through this documentary and visit to see it with their own eyes," Ao says.

Having explored many Chinese cities, Luden is inviting global audiences to visit the nation, saying: "If you're not familiar with Chinese culture, it is such a different world and is so fun to discover. You will always be welcome.

"You don't have to fear anything. If you have any trouble, everybody will help you. If you are worried about the language barrier, I know Chinese people always find a way. Just go."

Contact the writer at wangxin2@chinadaily.com.cn