By Mohamed Ali Gharib Baheeg
Head of the Central Administration for Arab, Neighboring, and African Media Offices of State information service (SIS), Egypt
I am so happy and grateful for the opportunity to visit China for the first time. It has been one of the most exciting and unique experiences of my life. As someone who has always been fascinated by world cultures, history, and human civilization, visiting China—the land of ancient philosophies, profound traditions, and incredible landscapes—was a dream come true. China is not only a country of great power and influence but also one of the leading cultural forces that helped shape our world. From the beginning of my journey to the moments I spent immersed in its everyday life, Chinese culture captured my heart and enriched my perspective in ways I could not have imagined.
A Grateful Beginning
Before diving into my impressions, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the invitation extended to me to visit China. I am truly honored and excited to have this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty, culture, and history of this remarkable country. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China for making this visit possible. It is truly a privilege to have been chosen for such an experience, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me.
From the very beginning, I understood the significance of this journey. This was not just about seeing beautiful places; it was about gaining insight into a culture that has shaped philosophy, science, art, and global identity for thousands of years. I assured myself, and my hosts, that I would approach this visit with the utmost respect, professionalism, and enthusiasm. I was determined to be a responsible and appreciative guest.
Stepping into a Living Civilization
The moment I arrived in China, I felt like I had stepped into a living museum—one that balanced modernity with timeless traditions. Towering skyscrapers stood alongside centuries-old temples. Bustling city streets led to serene gardens. It was immediately clear to me that Chinese culture is not just preserved in textbooks or museums—it is alive in everyday life.
My first cultural encounter came in the form of hospitality. The warmth, politeness, and attention to detail shown by the people I met were deeply touching. From the airport to the hotel and throughout my travels, I was constantly greeted with smiles, bows, and expressions of welcome. The Chinese people take great pride in being gracious hosts, and it showed in every interaction.
A Deeply Rooted Heritage
What struck me most was the depth of history. China’s heritage is one of the oldest and most continuous in the world. As I explored Beijing, I was overwhelmed by the grandeur of landmarks like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. Each place told a story—not just of emperors and dynasties, but of a civilization’s journey through time. Walking through these sites was like walking through the pages of a living history book.
The Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, left me speechless. Standing on its ancient stones and looking out across the hills, I couldn’t help but reflect on the countless hands that built it, the centuries it took, and the determination it represented. It was more than a wall—it was a symbol of unity, strength, and perseverance.
Nature, Art, and Harmony
China’s natural beauty is equally stunning. I had long been captivated by places like the Li River in Guilin and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, and seeing them in person was unforgettable. The mist-covered mountains, winding rivers, and lush greenery made me feel connected to nature in a way I had never experienced before.
Chinese culture holds a deep respect for harmony between humans and nature, a concept deeply rooted in Taoist and Confucian thought. This was evident not only in the landscapes but in art and architecture. The traditional Chinese gardens, with their carefully placed rocks, flowing water, and symbolic plants, reflect a philosophy of balance and inner peace. The design of homes, temples, and even cities seem to flow with the natural environment rather than dominate it.
Chinese painting, calligraphy, and music all echoed this same theme of harmony and reflection. I was fortunate enough to witness a live performance of traditional Chinese instruments—the guqin, erhu, and pipa. The melodies were delicate, poetic, and emotional. Each note seemed to carry centuries of history and emotion within it.
Language and Communication
Mandarin Chinese, with its tones and characters, was both challenging and fascinating to me. Though I could only speak a few phrases, I was amazed at the complexity and beauty of the language. Every character seemed to be a piece of art with a story behind it. Learning even the basics gave me a new appreciation for the Chinese worldview, where language is closely tied to philosophy, symbolism, and expression.
Despite the language barrier, communication was never a major issue. Whether through translation apps or the kindness of locals who made extra efforts to understand and help, I always felt connected and welcomed.
Food: A Culinary Adventure
One of the most delightful aspects of my visit was the food. Chinese cuisine is a world of its own—diverse, flavorful, and deeply cultural. Each region offers its own specialties, and I was lucky to try a variety of dishes from Sichuan’s spicy hotpot to Guangdong’s dim sum and Beijing’s famous Peking duck.
What impressed me most was how meals are more than just eating—they are moments of connection and ritual. Dining is a social event, often involving shared dishes, toasts, and expressions of gratitude. The emphasis on fresh ingredients, balance of flavors, and presentation reflects the Chinese values of health, harmony, and beauty.
Festivals and Traditions
Though I did not arrive during a major festival, I had the chance to learn about them from locals and cultural centers. Traditional festivals such as the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival are not only colorful celebrations but also reflections of values like family unity, respect for ancestors, and the changing of seasons.
The red lanterns, dragon dances, fireworks, and symbolic foods all reveal how much meaning is woven into Chinese traditions. Even the zodiac animals and the Lunar calendar offer a unique way of looking at time and destiny.
Philosophy and Values
Perhaps the most profound impression I gained was the role of philosophy in daily life. The teachings of Confucius, Laozi, and other ancient thinkers continue to influence Chinese values and behavior today. Respect for elders, education, humility, loyalty, and social harmony are deeply ingrained in the culture.
In conversations with students, tour guides, and locals, I could feel how these values shape personal and collective identity. There is a deep sense of responsibility to family, community, and the nation. This balance between the individual and society is something I found both admirable and inspiring.
A Bridge of Understanding
I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to forge meaningful connections, deepen cultural understanding, and create lasting memories through this visit. I see my time in China not just as tourism, but as a form of cultural exchange—a bridge that brings people closer despite borders and languages.
In every temple I visited, in every conversation I had, I sensed a spirit of openness and mutual curiosity. The people I met were as eager to share their culture as I was to learn about it. This exchange made me believe even more strongly in the power of culture to unite and inspire.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impression
My first impression of Chinese culture is one of awe, gratitude, and inspiration. China is a country where the ancient and modern coexist with grace, where tradition lives in every corner, and where people carry their heritage with pride and dignity.
To China: thank you for making this visit possible. To the people of China: thank you for your warmth and hospitality. I have learned so much in a short time, but I know that this is only the beginning of a lifelong journey of appreciation and discovery.
I leave with a heart full of respect, memories full of wonder, and a deep desire to return. Chinese culture has not only impressed me—it has moved me, taught me, and welcomed me. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
*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.