By Chaman Lal Gautam
Photo Journalist of Andhra Jyothi, India
What I Expect as I Prepare for the Trip
As I prepare for my journey to China, my mind is brimming with anticipation, curiosity, and a quiet sense of awe. Though I haven’t yet stepped foot on Chinese soil, my first impression of the country’s culture—shaped by history, stories, films, and personal research—is already vivid, layered, and inspiring. China, to me, is not just a destination—it’s an unfolding cultural universe, ancient and futuristic at once.
The first thing that strikes me about Chinese culture is its sheer depth. With a continuous civilization stretching back more than 5,000 years, China is a living museum of dynasties, philosophies, art forms, and traditions that have shaped not only its own identity but also the broader Asian and global imagination. From the grandeur of the Great Wall to the quiet wisdom of Confucian thought, from delicate calligraphy strokes to the philosophy of yin and yang—there is a unique harmony that permeates its cultural ethos.
Even before landing, I imagine the sensory world that awaits me. The streets of Beijing or Shanghai bustling with energy; the morning rhythm of tai chi in serene parks; tea being poured with delicate precision; the melodic tones of Mandarin floating in the air. I picture the lanterns glowing in the evening sky and ancient temples standing silently amidst modern skyscrapers, telling stories that words cannot capture.
One of the most fascinating aspects I expect to witness is the deep reverence for tradition that continues to coexist with rapid modernization. China has embraced cutting-edge technology and futuristic urban design, yet continues to celebrate centuries-old festivals like the Lunar New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat races. The idea that a society can be so forward-looking while still holding onto its roots is something I admire deeply and hope to understand more intimately.
I’m also preparing myself to navigate and embrace cultural differences, especially when it comes to etiquette. For example, the importance of hierarchy and respect in interpersonal relationships, the subtle cues of non-verbal communication, and the Chinese emphasis on collective harmony over individual expression—these offer a contrast to the more individual-centric cultures I’m used to. Learning how to greet someone properly, how to give or receive something with both hands, and how to show gratitude without overstatement are small, but meaningful gestures I hope to get right.
Food, of course, is a chapter all its own. Chinese cuisine is as diverse as its landscape—spicy Sichuan dishes, Cantonese dim sum, savoury Peking duck, and the comforting simplicity of congee. Each meal, I imagine, will be a cultural lesson in itself, revealing regional tastes, family traditions, and the philosophy of balance—hot and cold, sweet and salty, texture and aroma. I’m especially excited (and a bit nervous) about trying street food, where the pulse of local life is most palpable.
Language is another bridge I’m hoping to cross—if only partially. Though Mandarin is notoriously complex, I’ve made a humble start with some basic phrases and tones. I know my accent will be off and my vocabulary limited, but I hope the effort to communicate in the local language will open a few hearts and conversations. In any case, I expect to rely heavily on gestures, smiles, and the universal language of curiosity.
As I pack my bags and finalize the itinerary, I’m also preparing to let go of assumptions. Travel, after all, is not just about seeing new places, but about being transformed by them. I don’t want to simply observe Chinese culture as an outsider; I want to feel it, engage with it, and let it challenge and broaden my worldview. I hope to ask questions, listen deeply, and return with not just photographs, but stories and insights that will stay with me for a lifetime.
In essence, my first impression of China’s culture is that of an intricate mosaic—rich in contrasts, timeless in spirit, and deeply human. As I prepare for this trip, I know that what I think I know will likely be only the beginning. What awaits is a deeper, more nuanced understanding that can only come from lived experience. And for that, I am ready—with open eyes, an open mind, and a heart eager to learn.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.