Chinese New Year celebrations offer an opportunity for international visitors to learn more about the local culture. Luo Laiming spoke to a teacher and student working in East China's Jiangxi Province.  

A group of international students and teachers joins New Year celebrations on a popular tourist street in the city of Ji'an in eastern China's Jiangxi Province.

JEMONI TERANG Student from India, Jinggangshan University "I came here for the first time after COVID. And after coming here, I am so happy seeing all the changes for this New Year. So much celebrations and happiness. I am feeling actually blessed to be here."

Strolling the streets covered in festive decorations, the visitors admire the fish lanterns and watch local opera performances. There is also a chance to get personally involved.

JEMONI TERANG Student from India Jinggangshan University "Even the elders are basically so close, so kind, so welcoming. Even if we don't know anything, they try to teach us so that we can learn. Even though I'm not that fluent in Chinese, I'm trying to learn, they are more eager to teach me and they are more accepting to me."

The community has welcomed their eagerness to learn about traditional Chinese customs, which also mirrors the curiosity of local students.

SERGIO DELGADO SOTELO Spanish teacher, Jinggangshan University "I think that the Chinese students are very good. They work hard, and they are very respectful with the teachers. When I send them to do anything, they do it in a very fast way, and they do more than I really ask."

Ji'an – once known as Luling – has a centuries-long tradition as a centre of education and culture. And there's a strong focus on learning in the city today.

LIU DEQING Former director of Luling Cultural Studies Center, Jinggangshan University "Many famous historical people of great learning originated from ancient Luling. Common among them is the pursuit of learning to improve themselves and the welfare of the people. Under their influence, an emphasis on learning and education has prevailed in the local ethos. Today, we strive for breakthroughs in national rejuvenation. If we keep up with ideals of the ancient scholars, nothing will stand in our way to better lives."

Luo Laiming, CGTN, Ji'an, Jiangxi Province.