72 Hours in Beijing: KUSA Exchange Students Discover Chinese History, Architecture, and Food
Over the course of three days, seven KUSA exchange students embarked on a journey to explore Beijing, one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant capitals. They visited iconic landmarks, from the Palace Museum to the Great Wall of China, diving deep into the heart of Chinese history, culture, and cuisine. For them, this was more than sightseeing—it was an immersive experience that connected them to a culture they had only studied in books.
On their first day, the group made their way to the Temple of Heaven, an awe-inspiring imperial complex that once served as a place of worship for emperors and symbolized the connection between Heaven and Earth. The vivid blue, red, yellow, and green colors of the temple’s intricate design left a lasting impression on the students. Despite the holiday crowds, the temple's grand architecture and peaceful gardens offered a quiet beauty, with the air filled with the sounds of visitors capturing memories and marveling at the site.
For many students, this was their first time in Beijing, and the experience was as much about personal discovery as about cultural exploration. Anthony Fitsimmons, a junior studying Computer Science, shared his excitement: "It was incredible to be a part of other people’s experiences too. We took photos with locals, met travelers from around the world, and even bargained in Chinese for the first time—it was such an exciting way to connect."
The following day, the students faced the challenge of hiking the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China. The steep steps and panoramic views were nothing short of breathtaking. They stopped often to take photos with fellow climbers, including a group of young Chinese girls visiting the Wall for the first time. Anthony, reflecting on the experience, said, "It was so cool to interact with both locals and fellow travelers—it made the whole experience feel more personal."
The students then explored Shichahai by rickshaw, a vibrant area where history and daily life coexist seamlessly. As they navigated through narrow streets and past traditional courtyard homes, they witnessed the Qingming Festival in full swing—a powerful reminder of the deep respect Chinese people have for their ancestors and their commitment to preserving cultural traditions.
These encounters—whether bargaining in a local market, chatting with a Beijing resident, or observing traditional festivals—were more than just cultural observations. In fact, they were authentic, human connections that bridged the gap between tourists and locals. The students did not just observe Beijing. They became part of its rhythm, learning about local dialects, the city’s bustling pace, and the everyday lives of its people.
Beyond sightseeing, the group’s journey was about personal growth and expanding their global perspectives. They left Beijing not only with photographs but with a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, a stronger sense of connection to its people, and lasting memories of their time in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.
Looking ahead, the exchange students are eager to continue their cultural exploration. They plan to explore more Chinese cities, including Hangzhou, Chongqing, and Sanya, through immersive experiences such as visiting traditional markets and witnessing dragon dances, continuing their journey of discovery and friendship with China.
Written by Amori Cross-Faulks
Photographed by Xandra Velazquez
Proofread by Wenwei Xiang
