At Hübschmann·Zhan School, cultural exchange and close interaction have always been integral parts of campus life. The project week at the end of each semester vividly brings this concept to life. Spanning four days, this event was eagerly anticipated by students and teachers alike. As a celebration of deep Sino-German cultural integration, the campus was filled with the spark of intercultural encounters.

To ensure this cultural feast would shine, the teachers began preparing meticulously long in advance. This year’s project week included topics ranging from Chinese urban culture to the cultures of various German federal states, as well as elements of Western and French culture. A total of 17 carefully designed projects were offered for students to freely choose from. These projects explored everything from regional characteristics to local customs, showcasing rich and diverse content. Under the free-choice model, Chinese and German students broke boundaries, formed mixed teams, and collaborated on shared projects—allowing cultural exchange to happen naturally through cooperation. In the process, the students gained not only knowledge but also invaluable experience.

1. Immersed in Chinese Culture: Feeling the Depth of a Thousand-Year Heritage
In the ancient culture experience project, students created traditional clothing, classical-style fans, and origami Hanfu garments by hand, bringing old customs to life at their fingertips. The physical geography project transformed geographical knowledge into touchable 3D models, making the locations of provincial capitals and terrain vividly tangible.

Exploration of ethnic minority and culinary culture broadened perspectives: from the customs of the Mongolian, Manchu, and Dai peoples to their signature foods, the lively production process showcased the richness of multicultural China. In the traditional Beijing opera project, students painted facial masks and practiced singing, paying tribute to a cultural treasure. Meanwhile, the traditional wellness project, including moxibustion, tea brewing, the practice of baduanjin (a form of qigong), and hands-on experience with traditional Chinese medicine, gave students insight into the depth of Chinese healing arts and revealed the multifaceted nature of Chinese culture.

2. Encountering French Romance: A Taste of Foreign Elegance

The French culture project exuded a romantic charm. Students from different countries came together to explore the secrets of French cuisine, preparing and tasting it themselves. They drew maps of France and participated in fun competitions to experience the charm of the French language—all in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that brought the unique flavor of French culture to life.

3. Exploring the Diversity of Germany’s Federal States
Students conducted in-depth research into over ten German regions, including Lower Saxony, Hamburg, and Berlin. Starting with geographical maps to study location and topography, they went on to explore each state’s history, folk customs, architecture, and culinary traditions. The final presentations were engaging and varied—through plays, PowerPoint presentations, and videos. From the industrial exhibitions of Lower Saxony to Hamburg’s harbor culture, from Berlin’s historical landmarks to the grand Oktoberfest of Bavaria, the projects showcased the students’ open-mindedness and inclusive spirit.

Each vivid project presentation told a story of what the students learned and how they grew during these four days. Though project week was short, the impact of cultural exchange will continue to influence every student and teacher. Through these collisions and fusions of cultures, all participants gained knowledge, friendships, and personal growth.