The cultural interaction zone is abuzz with enthusiastic participation. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

The 13th "China Day" Cultural Festival was held at Xiamen University on Nov 22. Dedicated to fostering cultural exchange, the event featured a rich display of traditional Chinese heritage and served as a grand cross-cultural gathering for about a thousand participants from both China and abroad.

International students make a stunning appearance in traditional hanfu. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

The event began with international students from nine countries showcasing hanfu, a traditional Chinese costume, their diverse appearances underscoring the importance of cultural exchange. Leng Shan from New Zealand followed with a Taiji Broadsword performance, exemplifying the harmonious blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

This year's "China Day" highlight was a showcase of Gezai Opera — a national-level intangible cultural heritage from southern Fujian. Artists from the Xiamen Gezai Opera Study Center staged a diverse repertoire, culminating in an immersive session led by Su Yanrong, a celebrated Plum Blossom Award-winning performer, who unveiled the art's captivating charm.

International students try glove puppetry. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn] 

Participants enjoyed a rich lineup of 11 heritage activities, from glove puppetry to tea art. Ding Lan from Ghana expressed her awe after trying Gezai Opera: "This 'China Day' was unforgettable! Each activity — traditional dance, calligraphy, or opera — let me immerse in Chinese culture. It makes me want to explore its profound depth even more."

Since its inception in 2013, the "China Day" has been held annually for 13 consecutive years, establishing itself as a signature event of Xiamen University's internationalization efforts. It serves as a vibrant platform for overseas students to engage with the authentic fabric of China.