The journey from Nanchang to Beijing took on a festive air recently as a group of African students embraced and shared the traditions of the Chinese Little New Year, also known as Xiaonian. The celebration, which falls approximately a week before the Spring Festival, transformed a routine train ride into a vibrant cultural exchange, offering a unique experience for both passengers and the students involved.
For many, the Little New Year marks a time for families to prepare for the upcoming Spring Festival, often involving cleaning, decorating, and honoring ancestors. This year, the D138 train became an unexpected venue for these traditions, thanks to the initiative of eight students from the East China University of Science and Technology. The event highlighted the growing cultural connections between China and African nations, and the eagerness of young people to participate in and learn from each other’s heritage.
Lekouga Foula Jeannica Darlia, a student from Gabon, described the experience as unforgettable. “It’s the first time I’ve spent the Little New Year on a train. I will never forget it,” she exclaimed in a video call to her family, sharing her joy of celebrating the holiday in such an unusual setting, according to reports from Xinhua News Agency. The train itself was adorned with traditional decorations, including spring couplets, paper cuttings, and Chinese knots, creating a festive atmosphere.
A Cultural Exchange on Rails
The students, dressed in hanfu – traditional Chinese clothing – contributed dishes from their home countries and performed songs in Chinese for fellow passengers. Lekouga Foula Jeannica Darlia, a music enthusiast, particularly touched the audience with her rendition of the popular Chinese pop song, “Across the Ocean to See You” (Traverser l’océan pour te voir). She explained that the song resonated with her personal journey, having traveled across the ocean from Africa to study in China. Nanchang, she noted, has become a second home, and she wanted to share her feelings of connection with everyone on board.
The celebration wasn’t limited to musical performances. Lamsahel Meryem, a student from Morocco, also participated, greeting passengers with a graceful bow although wearing a hanfu. “It’s the first time I’ve worn traditional Chinese clothing. I sense like I’ve stepped out of a painting,” she said with a smile, as reported by Xinhua. She and a classmate posed with a piece of calligraphy, further showcasing the artistic elements of the Chinese New Year traditions.
Passengers Embrace the Unexpected Celebration
The impromptu gala wasn’t lost on the other passengers. Li Yuzhuo, traveling from Liaoning province, captured Darlia’s performance on his phone, remarking, “I didn’t expect to encounter such a scene on the train. It’s impressive.” The unexpected cultural display clearly left a positive impression on those traveling on the D138 train.
Following the performances, Meryem took photos with the train staff, creating lasting memories of the unique event. “These are precious memories that I will cherish,” she shared. The students’ participation underscores the increasing opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding between China and African nations, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
The Little New Year celebration on the train D138 serves as a heartwarming example of how cultural traditions can be shared and celebrated in unexpected places, creating memorable experiences for all involved. As the Spring Festival approaches, this event offers a glimpse into the growing connections and mutual appreciation between China and its international student community.
What does this event signify for the future of cultural exchange programs between China and African nations? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this story with your network!
