From Dec 26 to 28, the "Orchid Awards Night" series was held in Suzhou, convening international youth representatives from nearly 20 countries alongside students from Chinese universities. The primary focus of this event was to engage in discussions regarding the preservation and evolution of traditional culture.

The series kicked off on Dec 26 with an "Orchid Round-table" discussion, where participants explored the global influence of Chinese culture, particularly through the lens of Spring Festival's inclusion on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Furthermore, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a hands-on experience with Suzhou's Taohuawu Woodcut New Year Print, a type of traditional art form that has existed for over 400 years. This specific form of art is customarily displayed on doors to ward off malevolent spirits and to convey good wishes for Chinese New Year.

Participants experience Suzhou's Taohuawu Woodcut New Year Print. [Photo/WeChat account: suzhoufabu365]

Participants engaged in discussions regarding cultural exchange and diversity the following day. They viewed the documentary Suzhou Gardens in Six Chapters and experienced a captivating flower arrangement performance by Chen Xiaofeng, senior technician of horticulture of the Lingering Garden. This provided attendees with an opportunity to appreciate Chinese traditional floral artistry firsthand.

The event concluded on Dec 28 with a visit to the Suzhou Museum, marking the end of a culturally enriching journey for the international youth participants.

Throughout the event, attendees gained a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese culture and the importance of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.

The "Orchid Awards Night" in Suzhou served as a platform for young individuals from diverse backgrounds to unite, celebrate cultural heritage, and pave the way for a more interconnected and harmonious global community.

A participant delivers a speech on Chinese New Year. [Photo/WeChat account: suzhoufabu365]