Over the October half-term, 13 Marlburians enjoyed a 13 day trip across Southwest China, travelling through Chengdu, Leshan, Dujiangyan and Chongqing, combining culture, history, innovation and adventure.
In Chengdu, pupils explored the Lynk & Co smart car factory, the creative district of Dongjiao Jiyi, and the historic lanes of Kuanzhai Alley, and enjoyed a spectacular Sichuan Opera performance. Food was a highlight throughout the trip, from street snacks to a hands-on cooking session at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, alongside international options for variety.
A particularly memorable visit was the Science Fiction Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and completed in just about a year. Its sweeping curves, sky-lit atrium and futuristic design left a lasting impression. Pupils also visited the Tianfu Art Museum, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum, and the serene Du Fu Thatched Cottage and Huanhuaxi Park. They enjoyed a cultural exchange at Yandaojie Foreign Language School, making wellness gifts, learning to fold dumplings, and taking part in collaborative activities with local students.
In Leshan, the group admired the Giant Buddha from both the mountainside and the river, while in Dujiangyan they volunteered at Panda Base and explored Qingcheng Mountain and Guankou Ancient Town. Chongqing offered a lively contrast, with visits to Huguang Guild Hall, the Crown Escalator, Liziba Monorail, street food at Bayi Food Street, and a river ferry along the illuminated skyline. They also visited Sichuan International Studies University, where pupils took part in workshops and presentations.
Throughout the trip, pupils were curious, respectful and engaged, embracing new experiences and forming meaningful connections with locals. Many thanks to Yoyo Study Tour for their excellent support with the logistics, which made this remarkable journey possible.
Qingwei Li
Head of Chinese
