Recently, the "First International Youth Poetry Conference—BRICS Special Session" has been held in Hangzhou, bringing together 72 poets from the ten BRICS nations for a vibrant literary celebration.
On July 21, the participating poets embarked on a journey along the Grand Canal and other scenic routes, immersing themselves in the enchanting charm of Hangzhou and experiencing the richness of Chinese culture while crafting evocative verses.
That day, over 20 young poets from countries including China, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE traversed the Grand Canal route. They explored the Qiaoxi Historical and Cultural District, crossed the tranquil Gongchen Bridge, and visited the China Grand Canal Museum and the Hangzhou Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum.
Upon entering the China Grand Canal Museum, the poets were mesmerized by two majestic pillars adorned with auspicious Chinese beasts. With over 600 exquisite exhibits, many poets gained a profound understanding of the "flowing culture" of the Grand Canal for the first time.
The digital experience zone, known as the "Grand Canal Digital Cockpit," quickly became a favorite among the poets. They engaged with a large screen, navigating the "Grand Canal Everything Wall" interface, which highlighted the delectable cuisine, exciting activities, and stunning sights found in cities along the canal.
As they meandered through the Qiaoxi Historical and Cultural District, the poets also visited the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum, where they engaged in traditional crafts such as fan dyeing, paper cutting, and weaving.
Through this journey of exploration, the ancient canal left a lasting impression on their hearts. That day, the young poets also experienced the elegance of traditional Chinese culture at venues like Xiaofeng Book House and the Xu Family Guqin Museum of the Zhejiang School style, appreciating the cultural richness that flourishes along both banks of the canal.