In a recent cultural essay published by radii.co, writer Nora Lee recounts her semester studying abroad in China, detailing a journey that spanned high-speed train rides, urban exploration, and high-altitude mountain ranges. Lee argues that China’s major urban centers and natural landmarks offer a complex mix of intense modernity and deep-rooted history, resisting simplistic travel labels.
Chongqing offers serenity amidst towering buildings
Lee writes that her arrival in Chongqing followed a missed train and a scramble for transit, which initially left her group expecting an over-hyped destination. Despite its reputation as China’s “8-D cyberpunk metropolis,” Lee notes that the city’s appeal lies in an intangible sweetness born from contrasting elements. She describes a distinct serenity created by rivers cradled by surrounding mountains and towering buildings built directly into the terrain. For visitors, Lee recommends taking a river cruise and exploring the 18 Steps District, also known as Shibati.
Guangzhou blends trade history with colonial architecture
Visiting Guangzhou in July, Lee sought relief from the notorious humidity in the city’s extensive underground shopping centers. According to the essay, Guangzhou served as much more than a retail stop, boasting over 2,000 years of history as a central trade hub since the Maritime Silk Road. Lee highlights the tree-lined pedestrian street on Shamian Island, a former strategic defense point during the Opium Wars that is now lined with Qing-era colonial architecture. The recommended stop for nighttime visitors is the Canton Tower.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park provides vivid mountain views
The trip to Zhangjiajie brought severe food poisoning alongside the majesty of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, an experience Lee describes as one of the highs of life. Describing crowded bus rides up winding mountain roads, Lee recalls passengers craning their necks through windows to catch views of the landscape. Rather than the famous reveal from the Bailong elevator, Lee points to moments along the Golden Whip Stream as the most vivid memories of the high-altitude park.
Xiamen Seaside Tranquility and Coastal Scenery
Lee spent the final days of the semester in the oceanside city of Xiamen, characterized by balmy days on the back of a scooter and sandy beaches. Described as a city of warm, breezy nights and humid days, Xiamen’s greatest strength is its tranquility. Greenery, palm trees, and vines define the urban landscape, creating an environment Lee compares to an aesthetic filter. The recommended culinary experience is seafood hot pot at 朱富贵 (Zhū fùguì).
Beijing Culture and Personal Connections
Having lived in Beijing for four months, Lee reflects on a city that reigns supreme in culture, history, and national pride. Inspired by family advice favoring Beijing over the more familiar cosmopolitan comforts of Shanghai, Lee navigated long subway rides from the Haidian district to the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Study Abroad Essay
Where was the essay originally published?
The essay detailing the semester abroad was published by radii.co.
Which specific city locations does the author recommend?
The essay recommends visiting the Shibati district and taking a river cruise in Chongqing, seeing the Canton Tower at night in Guangzhou, walking along the Golden Whip Stream in Zhangjiajie, eating seafood hot pot at 朱富贵 in Xiamen, and visiting Beihai Park in Beijing.
What historical site in Guangzhou does the essay highlight?
The author highlights the tree-lined pedestrian street on Shamian Island, noting its role as a strategic defense point during the Opium Wars and its current collection of Qing-era colonial architecture.
How does the author characterize the city of Xiamen?
Xiamen is described as an idyllic, oceanside destination defined by balmy weather, palm-lined walkways, and a tranquil atmosphere where greenery abounds throughout the urban layout.
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