By Sherif Badea Elnour Ahmed Omar
Deputy Managing Editor of Al Ahram, Egypt
Visiting China for the first time felt like stepping into a different world—one I had long wished to explore on a cultural, intellectual, and human level. China and Egypt share a common thread: both are ancient civilizations with thousands of years of history. At the same time, China has achieved remarkable economic and social miracles. To me, China appeared as an independent world—rich in history, steeped in tradition, yet pulsing with modern ambition. As someone who had only known China through books and scattered media glimpses, I arrived with no preconceived notions—just an open heart and curiosity for what I might discover.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the warmth of the people. Despite the language barrier, there was a clear sense of hospitality and mutual respect. Whether interacting with a street vendor or a university professor, I sensed deep pride in their heritage and a genuine willingness to share it. There was also a kindness in how strangers were treated—a distinctly Eastern spirit that made me feel as though I were among my own.
What amazed me most was how seamlessly China blends the old with the new. In a single afternoon, I stood at the ancient Confucius Temple and the centuries-old Lama Temple, and just hours later, I was walking through a cutting-edge tech hub that felt like the future. This harmony between honoring the past and striving for the future defines the Chinese way of life.
One unforgettable aspect of my experience was the food—not just the flavors, but the philosophy behind them. Meals in China are not merely about eating; they are social rituals, moments of connection, closeness, and harmony. Even the arrangement of dishes and the order in which they are served hold symbolic meaning. Sitting at a table with a Chinese family revealed much about the values that shape their daily lives.
I was equally fascinated by China’s traditional arts—calligraphy, opera, martial arts, and music. These are not just performances, but living expressions of discipline and identity. Watching a child quietly practicing calligraphy, or a Tai Chi master moving in harmony with the morning breeze in a park, revealed how deeply culture is woven into the fabric of everyday life.
At the heart of it all, I sensed a collective mindset—a spirit of unity, responsibility, and belonging to the community. I saw how Confucian values still shape society: respect for elders, the importance of education, and the pursuit of harmony and order.
Of course, China is not without its contradictions and challenges. But that’s exactly what makes its culture so captivating—it is not a monolith, but a rich and complex mosaic.
If someone were to ask me about the most striking impression I took from my visit to China, I would say without hesitation: it is a country that loves beauty and cherishes art.
From the cleanliness of the streets, to the refined sense of design in its architecture—even buildings in modest neighborhoods are surrounded by green spaces and aesthetic touches. This deep appreciation for beauty and art, visible in every corner of the country, is something truly remarkable.
My first impression of Chinese culture was a blend of admiration and respect. It is a civilization that has endured, adapted, and evolved—yet has preserved its essence. I didn’t return home with souvenirs alone, but with stories, friendships, and a deep desire to return and learn more.
*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.