Saturday, 18 April 2026By Daisy Liu
My participation in the Sister School Exchange Program with Beijing National Day School-Jinyuan was an extraordinary journey that included cultural exploration, academic interaction, and personal growth. The trip lasted five days, from 28 March to 1 April 2026, as we explored Beijing city and the Jinyuan campus. This journey was far more than just sightseeing; it gave me a chance to develop a deep connection to Chinese history, culture, and the education system there.
Our journey began with our flight from Hong Kong to Beijing. We then rested at the hotel, marking the start of a trip packed with meaningful experiences. The first day took us to iconic historical sites, including the Former Residence of Song Qingling, where we visited exhibitions showcasing her extraordinary life. This gave us insight into the remarkable woman who dedicated herself to China’s progress and contributed greatly to the country’s development. Afterwards, we wandered through the old alleyways of Beijing, where we could feel the harmony between age-old heritage and the vibrant vibe of contemporary elements.
The highlight of our tour was undoubtedly the two-day exchange with Beijing National Day School-Jinyuan. On the first day of the exchange, we joined the local students in classroom activities. We were warmly welcomed by the Jinyuan schoolmates once we entered the campus, and then we engaged in academic discussions and cultural sharing. Some Shungtakians even held a sharing session for the Jinyuan students, fostering greater understanding between both cultures. It was fascinating to learn about the differences and similarities between the Hong Kong and Beijing education systems. In addition to academic interaction, we learnt more about different career pathways through the Job Exchange Day on the second day at Jinyuan. I visited a dental clinic, where my buddy and I learnt more about the life of a dentist. Over these two days, we interacted with local peers, made friends, and exchanged ideas, which broadened my perspective on education across different regions of China.
On our last day in Beijing, we visited the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of Chinese royal gardens. Walking through the palace, I was amazed by the craftsmanship and artistic wisdom of ancient Chinese craftsmen. Our trip concluded with our return flight to Hong Kong, bringing back precious memories and new knowledge.
This study tour widened my perspective in many ways. First of all, it allowed me to deepen my understanding of Chinese history and culture, both historically and educationally. Most importantly, it strengthened my bond with our sister school in Beijing, fostering cross-cultural friendship, where we support one another and strive towards success together. Beyond the places we visited and the activities we joined, I learned the importance of embracing diversity and cherishing culture. After this journey, I am inspired to continue exploring the world and valuing cultural exchange in the future.