Queen's grandchild experiences Chinese culture in Shanghai

Peter Phillips, the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, experienced different aspects of Chinese culture in Shanghai. [Provided to China Daily]

Peter Phillips, the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, experienced different aspects of Chinese culture amid preparations for 2014 China Equestrian Tour in Shanghai rencetly.

In an interview, Phillips gave an informed view of equestrianism in UK and its comparisons with China's long association with horses. He also participated in the traditional Chinese practices of calligraphy and paper-cutting.

Phillips listened to a description of the "Six Arts" that young men were required to learn, in ancient China; riding being one of the mandatory skills that Chinese men had to master.

Phillips expressed the view that there was not a similar cultural tradition in British history, but that horses had played a significant role in UK, as an invaluable asset for use in farming, military and transportation.

On being asked his view of the legend of King Mu of Zhou and his carriage which was pulled by eight dragon horses, Phillips replied: "For me, this legend represents the incredible strength of eight horses working together, to create a single force. The power of collective effort, is always more effective than its individual component parts".

He agreed that much could be learned from "Working together, to create greater power."