During the sweltering summer days from July 8 to 12, Diana, a Russian student from Zhejiang International Studies University, took part in a multilingual social practice team in Yiwu, Zhejiang province. She immersed herself in the allure of China's traditional brown sugar-making techniques and witnessed the local brown sugar industry's evolution.

In Xilou village, dubbed as China's top brown sugar village, the team delved into the ancient methods of brown sugar production and observed the contemporary management of sugarcane fields. They expressed admiration for the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology in sugar-making and aimed to bolster the global renown of Yiwu brown sugar through their endeavors.

The team also provided translation services in English, Arabic, Russian and other languages to aid international visitors in comprehending and appreciating Yiwu's brown sugar craftsmanship and intangible cultural heritage.

Furthermore, the team planned to develop unique intellectual property and distinctive venues for Gutingtang village, alongside producing the promotional video Inheritance, aimed at highlighting the distinctive allure of Yiwu brown sugar. Through these initiatives, the team endeavors to establish Yiwu brown sugar as a globally recognized cultural brand, thereby fostering international cultural exchange and collaboration.

Through this social practice initiative, students from Zhejiang International Studies University not only deepened their understanding of Chinese traditional craftsmanship but also made substantial contributions to the international propagation of intangible cultural heritage. 

Editor Yan Yiqi

Intern Qin Yuanyuan

Correspondent Gong Xuanning, Yang Qin'er