International students and faculty practice calligraphy and print auspicious patterns at the festive event. [Photo provided by Jinhua University of Vocational Technology]

As Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, approaches, international students and faculty at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology in Jinhua, East China's Zhejiang province, have had the chance to take part in an immersive experience of the most important traditional festival in China.

The event featured activities such as Chinese calligraphy and printing, festive craft making, conversations over tea, and traditional games, allowing participants to learn about Chinese New Year traditions.

Students try their hands at making tanghulu, China's iconic crispy fruit snack. [Photo provided by Jinhua University of Vocational Technology]

Students were guided to practice calligraphy and print auspicious patterns, learning about the evolution of the Chinese character "福" (fu, meaning "fortune") and its cultural significance in conveying blessings. Some of the foreign participants made their own sweet, crispy tanghulu, or sugar-coated haws on a stick — a traditional hibernal appetizer in China — savoring the traditional flavors of Chinese New Year.

Participants pose for a group photo with their calligraphy works. [Photo provided by Jinhua University of Vocational Technology]

"This is my first time trying calligraphy and making tanghulu. It was all so fascinating and unforgettable!" exclaimed Muharram, a student from Yemen.

Natalia, a Russian faculty member, said, "I knew Chinese tea was famous, but experiencing it firsthand revealed its charm in every detail. The diverse aromas and flavors made the experience truly delightful."

A university official expressed hope that the activities would create lasting "Chinese New Year" memories for international students and faculty and promised more immersive cultural experiences in the future to build bridges of understanding.