5 Days Chengdu Science and Technology Education Study Tour

Theme: Ancient Shu Civilization, Archaeology, and Traditional Craftsmanship
Key Focus: History, Archaeology, and Hands-on Learning

Morning: Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆博物馆) – Unveiling Ancient Shu Mysteries

Visit to Sanxingdui Museum:
After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to the Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆博物馆), one of the most important archaeological sites in China. Sanxingdui is famous for its mysterious Bronze Age artifacts and is believed to be a core part of the ancient Shu Kingdom (古蜀国). The museum houses some of the most iconic and enigmatic relics, including bronze masks, golden objects, and jade items, offering a glimpse into the advanced civilization that once thrived in the region.

Key Highlights:

• Ancient Shu Civilization: Learn about the Shu Kingdom and its development, uncovering the mysteries of this long-lost culture.

• Major Artifacts: See the famous bronze masks, golden scepters, and other remarkable finds that challenge the current understanding of early Chinese civilization.

• Sanxingdui's Archaeological Significance: Explore why the discovery of this ancient site has reshaped archaeological research about the Bronze Age in China.

Expert-Led Tour and Interactive Exploration:
A guided tour will provide in-depth explanations of the archaeological excavations and their impact on understanding ancient China. The museum offers a unique opportunity to examine objects that highlight the sophistication and cultural richness of ancient Shu.

Mid-Morning: Hands-On Crafting – Ancient Shu Artisan Experience

Course: "The Crafts of Ancient Shu" (《古蜀工匠记》体验课程):
After exploring the museum, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on experience, simulating the archaeological process of uncovering and studying ancient artifacts. This interactive course will give participants a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship that existed in the Shu Kingdom.

Course Activities:

• Simulated Archaeological Digging: Experience the excitement of uncovering ancient artifacts by carefully excavating in a simulated dig site.

• Ancient Jade Crafting: Learn the ancient jade crafting techniques, including the process of carving and polishing jade objects, which were highly prized in ancient Shu culture.

• Bronze Casting: Try your hand at a traditional bronze casting technique (范铸法), where participants will create a simple bronze figure, replicating the method used by ancient Shu artisans.

• Jewelry & Pottery: Create your own clay pot or jewelry inspired by ancient Shu styles, learning about their ceramic and metalworking techniques.

Cultural Insights:
An experienced artisan will lead the class, offering insights into the traditional methods that ancient Shu craftsmen used. This practical experience will allow participants to appreciate the technical skills that were passed down through generations and still resonate in the region today.

Lunch: Traditional Sichuan Cuisine

Culinary Experience:
After the hands-on crafting session, the group will enjoy a traditional Sichuan lunch at a local restaurant, where they can taste some of the region’s most iconic dishes like Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁), Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐), and Dan Dan Noodles (担担面). A discussion on how Sichuan cuisine has evolved over centuries will follow, emphasizing the role of spices and flavors in local culture.

Afternoon: "The Flourishing of the Ancient Capital" – Dramatic Cultural Experience

Course: "Flourishing Jinjiang: The Flower Blooms in the Capital City" (《花重锦官城》国潮戏剧赏析):
In the afternoon, the group will attend a cultural performance at a local theater or cultural center. This dramatic performance focuses on the history and culture of Chengdu, paying tribute to its thousand-year-old history as a center of Chinese culture and commerce. The performance will include traditional Chinese opera, local music, and storytelling elements that represent the cultural richness of Chengdu as the “Jinjiang City.”

Key Highlights:

• Traditional Chinese Drama: Experience a lively and immersive performance that brings Chengdu’s ancient culture to life.

• Theatrical Interpretation of History: Learn how Chengdu’s cultural history influenced arts, architecture, and daily life during the Tang Dynasty and beyond.

Late Afternoon: Free Time for Exploration

Exploring Chengdu’s Historic Streets:
After the performance, participants will have some free time to explore the ancient streets of Chengdu at their leisure. Some popular areas include Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子) and Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街), where travelers can browse through shops selling local crafts, Sichuan tea, traditional snacks, and more.

Optional Activities:

Tea-tasting at a Local Tea House: Discover the history of Sichuan tea culture in a traditional tea house.

Visit to Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠): If time permits, revisit the shrine to explore more about the Three Kingdoms and the legacy of Zhuge Liang.

Evening: Group Reflection and Dinner

Group Reflection:
The day will end with a group reflection, where participants can share their experiences and thoughts about the museum visit, the hands-on workshop, and the performance. This is a time to discuss what they learned about ancient Shu civilization and how it connects to modern-day Chengdu.

Dinner:
Enjoy another traditional Sichuan dinner, this time with an added focus on dishes from the Chengdu area, where the influence of ancient Shu culture can still be seen in local food and hospitality.

Theme: Conservation, Ancient Engineering, and Traditional Life
Key Focus: Nature, History, and Cultural Heritage

Morning: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (大熊猫保护中心) – Visiting the Home of China’s National Treasure

Visit to the Chengdu Panda Base:
Begin the day with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (大熊猫保护中心), one of the most famous wildlife conservation centers in the world. This center is home to more than 80 giant pandas, including newborn cubs and adult pandas, providing a unique opportunity to witness these iconic animals up close.

Key Highlights:

• Panda Conservation Efforts: Learn about the important conservation work being done to protect the giant panda and its natural habitat.

• Educational Programs: Participate in an educational tour that highlights the breeding and reintroduction efforts for pandas in the wild.

• Observation: Watch pandas eating bamboo, playing, and interacting with each other in their naturalized environment.

Interactive Activities:
The group will also take part in an interactive session where participants can learn about the behavior and habitat of giant pandas through hands-on exhibits and engaging presentations. There may be opportunities to learn about the panda’s diet, habitat conservation, and reproduction.

Late Morning: Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial (映秀512地震遗址) – A Reflection on Resilience and Recovery

Visit to Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial:
After visiting the pandas, the group will head to the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial Site (映秀512地震遗址), which commemorates the victims and survivors of the devastating 2008 Sichuan Earthquake. The memorial is located in Yingxiu Town, which was one of the worst-hit areas.

Key Highlights:

• Memorial Exhibition: Walk through the earthquake memorial and learn about the immense destruction caused by the earthquake and the subsequent rescue and recovery efforts.

• Survival Stories: Hear emotional survivor stories and witness the resilience of the people who lived through the disaster.

• Reflection and Impact: Understand how this disaster shaped modern China’s approach to disaster preparedness and infrastructure rebuilding.

Cultural Reflection:
The visit is not just a historical journey but also an emotional experience that connects participants to the theme of human perseverance and the efforts of Sichuan in rebuilding after such a catastrophic event.

Lunch: Traditional Sichuan Cuisine with a Local Twist

Lunch at a Local Sichuan Restaurant:
Following the emotionally powerful visit to the memorial, the group will enjoy a traditional Sichuan lunch at a local restaurant. This meal will feature the unique flavors of Chengdu, focusing on the region’s spicy, bold flavors.

Signature Dishes:

• Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) – Soft tofu in a spicy, flavorful sauce with ground pork.

• Dandan Noodles (担担面) – A classic street food dish with spicy sauce, peanuts, and ground pork.

• Hot Pot (火锅) – Enjoy a sizzling and interactive meal where participants can dip ingredients into a bubbling, aromatic broth.

Cultural Insights:
Along with the meal, a Sichuanese cultural talk will be given, explaining how local food traditions are intertwined with ancient cultural practices and daily life in Chengdu.

Afternoon: Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰) – Discovering an Ancient Engineering Marvel

Visit to Dujiangyan Irrigation System:
In the afternoon, the group will visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰), one of the most significant and oldest water engineering systems in the world. Dating back to the Qin Dynasty (秦朝), this ancient irrigation system is still in use today and has played a critical role in preventing floods and irrigating the Chengdu Plain for over 2,000 years.

Key Highlights:

• Ancient Engineering Mastery: Learn how the system uses gravity and natural water flow to divert water from the Min River, an incredible feat of engineering that predates modern dams.

• Cultural Significance: Understand how the Dujiangyan system not only transformed the region’s agriculture but also had a deep cultural and spiritual significance for the local people.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Discover why Dujiangyan is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and how it continues to be a living testament to ancient Chinese ingenuity.

“The River Engineer’s Journey” Course (《千年河工记》体验课程):
Participants will then engage in an immersive course designed to introduce them to ancient water engineering techniques used at Dujiangyan. They will:

Learn how ancient engineers used tools like the “Ma Cha” (杩槎) and bamboo baskets (竹笼) to control water flow.

Create mini models of the Dujiangyan system, understanding its principles and how these techniques were passed down for generations.

Late Afternoon: Kuan Zhai Alley (宽窄巷子) – Exploring Chengdu’s Historic Streets

Free Time in Kuan Zhai Alley:
After the tour of Dujiangyan, the group will head back to Chengdu and visit Kuan Zhai Alley (宽窄巷子), one of the most historic and charming areas in the city. Here, visitors can stroll through the narrow lanes, visit traditional courtyard homes, and explore the many shops, cafés, and art galleries that line the alley.

Key Highlights:

• Historic Architecture: The well-preserved traditional Sichuanese architecture offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

• Local Art and Crafts: Browse local handicrafts, including Sichuan silk, embroidery, and traditional Chinese calligraphy.

• Tea Houses: Stop by one of Chengdu’s famous tea houses for a cup of Sichuan tea, and experience the city’s vibrant tea culture.

Evening: Group Reflection and Traditional Sichuan Dinner

Group Reflection:
The day will end with a group reflection, where participants can share their experiences and thoughts on the visit to the panda base, the earthquake memorial, and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The goal is to connect the lessons learned about conservation, engineering, and resilience to the overall themes of the program.

Farewell Sichuan Dinner:
The group will enjoy a Sichuan-style dinner, celebrating the day’s adventures with local dishes and a chance to discuss their favorite moments. Participants can reflect on the cultural, historical, and environmental insights they gained throughout the day.

Theme: Modern Science, Technology, and Sustainable Manufacturing
Key Focus: Future Innovation, Green Industry, and Hands-on Learning

Morning: Chengdu Science Fiction Museum (成都科幻馆) – Journey into the Future

Visit to Chengdu Science Fiction Museum:
Begin the day with an exciting visit to the Chengdu Science Fiction Museum (成都科幻馆), a unique institution dedicated to exploring the future through science fiction and innovation. The museum is a key component of the World Science Fiction Park, which hosted the 81st World Science Fiction Convention. Here, you will journey into the world of space exploration, robotics, and advanced technologies.

Key Highlights:

• Explore Future Technologies: The museum features exhibits on space travel, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the future of humanity as imagined through the lens of science fiction.

• Interactive Exhibits: Get hands-on with interactive displays such as air cannons, Harry Potter wands, and a variety of other scientific experiments.

• Learn About Space Design: Gain insights into the design processes of future cities and space colonies, and how they relate to ongoing scientific research and future predictions.

• Virtual Reality and Immersive Experiences: Enjoy immersive virtual reality experiences, allowing you to feel as if you are traveling through futuristic cities and space stations.

"Nebula Science Fiction Experience" (星云科幻记) Course:
Participants will engage in the Nebula Science Fiction Experience (星云科幻记), a hands-on workshop that includes:

DIY Projects: Create your own science fiction-themed handicrafts, such as space-themed models and innovative gadgets.

Drone Flying Experience: Learn to fly drones and explore the potential uses of drones in various industries.

Science Interaction Activities: Get involved in science experiments such as magnetic fluid displays, air cannons, and thought-controlled spiders, offering a deeper understanding of modern scientific concepts.

Late Morning: Lynk & Co Car Factory (领克汽车工厂) – A Glimpse into the Future of Green Manufacturing

Visit to Lynk & Co Car Factory:
After the morning at the science museum, the group will head to the Lynk & Co Car Factory (领克汽车工厂), an immersive green manufacturing facility located just outside Chengdu. Lynk & Co is a leading sustainable car brand, known for its smart, eco-friendly vehicles and cutting-edge green manufacturing practices.

Key Highlights:

• Factory Tour: Explore the factory’s layout, including the assembly lines, zero-carbon emissions facilities, and advanced robotics used in car production.

• Sustainable Manufacturing: Learn about the factory’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, and how they are working towards green production processes and eco-friendly materials.

• Meet the Engineers: Speak with engineers and specialists who are designing the next generation of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies.

"Automobile Engineer" (汽车工程师) Course:
The "Automobile Engineer" experience course will allow participants to:

Discover the Structure of Vehicles: Understand how cars are designed and manufactured, from body frames to power systems.

Hands-on Mechanical Experience: Build your own miniature mechanical vehicle and learn about electric circuits and vehicle mechanics.

Observe Key Workshops: Visit key production areas such as the stamping, welding, and final assembly workshops, and learn how the assembly process takes place in an advanced car factory.

Lunch: Sustainable Dining with a Modern Twist

Lunch at a Green Restaurant:
The group will enjoy a lunch at one of Chengdu’s green restaurants, a place known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious dining. The restaurant features locally sourced organic produce and green-certified ingredients.

Signature Dishes: Enjoy innovative dishes made from locally grown vegetables, organic meats, and sustainable ingredients.

Zero-Waste Practices: Learn about the restaurant’s zero-waste practices and environmentally friendly kitchen operations.

Afternoon: China Commercial Aircraft Corporation (中国商飞C919大飞机科普基地) – The Dream of Chinese Aviation

Visit to the C919 Commercial Aircraft Base:
After lunch, the group will visit the China Commercial Aircraft Corporation (中国商飞C919大飞机科普基地) to explore the C919, China’s first domestically developed large commercial aircraft. This aircraft represents China’s ambitious efforts to develop an indigenous aviation industry and compete in the global aerospace market.

Key Highlights:

• C919 Birth Story: Discover the history of the C919 aircraft, from its design to its development and testing processes.

• Interactive Exhibits: Explore the interactive displays that show the cutting-edge technology used in the aircraft’s design and construction, including materials science, aerodynamics, and aviation engineering.

• C919 Cockpit Simulation: Step into a simulated cockpit of the C919 and experience what it’s like to be a pilot flying this state-of-the-art aircraft.

"Great National Aviation Dream" (大国航空梦) Course:
This hands-on course will involve:

C919 Aircraft Interaction: Learn about the C919’s advanced technology, including its flight systems and cockpit instrumentation.

Simulated Flight Experience: Participate in a flight simulation, gaining an understanding of how pilots navigate and control a modern commercial airliner.

Ground Command Training: Get involved in ground operations, including aircraft refueling, pre-flight checks, and safety protocols.

Evening: Reflection and Farewell Dinner

Reflection on the Day's Learnings:
In the evening, there will be a group discussion and reflection session. Participants will have the opportunity to share their thoughts on the technological innovations they learned about, including green manufacturing, aerospace technology, and future engineering.

Farewell Dinner:
The day will end with a farewell dinner at a renowned Sichuan restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Sichuan cuisine. This meal will provide a final opportunity to reflect on the culinary heritage of Chengdu and the technological wonders the group has encountered during the day.

Theme: Aviation, High-Tech, and National Achievements
Key Focus: Chinese Aerospace, Technological Mastery, and National Pride

Morning: China Commercial Aircraft Corporation (中国商飞C919大飞机科普基地) – Exploring the Future of Aviation

Visit to China Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC):
Begin Day 5 with a visit to China Commercial Aircraft Corporation (中国商飞C919大飞机科普基地), home to the C919, China’s first domestically produced large commercial aircraft. The C919 is a groundbreaking achievement in China’s aviation industry, aiming to compete globally in the commercial aviation sector.

Key Highlights:

• C919’s Journey: Learn about the C919’s development, from its initial concept to its current status as one of the most advanced aircraft in China. Discover the technological innovations that have made this aircraft a milestone in Chinese aviation.

• Aircraft Engineering: Explore the engineering processes and materials technology that make the C919 one of the most sophisticated planes in its class.

• Interactive Exhibits: Engage with interactive exhibits about the aerodynamics, flight systems, and design behind the C919.

"Great National Aviation Dream" (大国航空梦) Course:
During the visit, participants will engage in the "Great National Aviation Dream" (大国航空梦) experience course. This will include:

C919 Cockpit Experience: Step inside the simulated C919 cockpit to understand the controls and instruments that pilots use to fly this cutting-edge aircraft.

Flight Simulation: Take part in a flight simulation experience, where participants can control the aircraft, experiencing what it's like to pilot one of China’s most advanced commercial jets.

Aircraft Ground Operations: Learn about the ground operations that ensure the safe and efficient movement of the aircraft before and after flights, including maintenance, safety checks, and refueling procedures.

Late Morning: Sichuan Aerospace Industry Base (四川航空航天产业基地) – The Heart of China's Aerospace Innovation

Explore the Sichuan Aerospace Industry Base:
After the visit to COMAC, the group will head to the Sichuan Aerospace Industry Base (四川航空航天产业基地), a major hub for aviation and aerospace research. This base plays a vital role in the development of Chinese aviation, working on everything from aircraft manufacturing to space exploration technologies.

Key Highlights:

• Aerospace Innovation: Gain insights into China’s space exploration programs, including satellite technology, rocket engineering, and aerospace components production.

• Explore Aerospace Factories: Visit various production lines for aerospace parts, such as turbine engines and aircraft wings, and see firsthand how these components are made for both domestic and international use.

• Meet Aerospace Engineers: Engage with engineers who specialize in advanced aviation technologies, including composite materials, navigation systems, and space missions.

Lunch: Innovation in Aerospace-Inspired Cuisine

Aerospace-Themed Lunch:
For lunch, enjoy a meal at a modern, themed restaurant that takes inspiration from the aerospace industry. The décor and menu will feature elements related to space travel and aviation technologies, giving participants a fun and educational experience during mealtime.

Thematic Dishes: Indulge in unique dishes inspired by space-age food technologies and Sichuan cuisine, such as space-inspired snacks, freeze-dried ingredients, and hydroponic vegetables.

Afternoon: Chengdu High-Tech Zone (成都高新技术产业开发区) – Exploring the Future of Technology and Innovation

Visit to Chengdu High-Tech Zone:
The final stop of the tour is the Chengdu High-Tech Zone (成都高新技术产业开发区), one of the leading innovation hubs in China. This area is home to cutting-edge technology companies, startups, and research institutions working on the future of AI, robotics, IT systems, and biotechnology.

Key Highlights:

• Tech Company Tour: Explore some of the top tech companies in the area and see how China’s technology giants are advancing AI, cloud computing, and big data.

• Innovation Labs: Visit research labs where breakthroughs in robotics and smart manufacturing are being made, showcasing the latest in automation and data science.

• Startups and Incubators: Discover the role of startups in shaping the future of technology, and how incubators in the area foster new and innovative business ideas.

Interactive Tech Demo:
At the High-Tech Zone, participants will also have the chance to engage with interactive technology demonstrations, where they can experience firsthand the innovations that are shaping the future of industries such as robotics, healthcare technology, and automated manufacturing.

Evening: Reflection and Closing Ceremony

Group Reflection and Closing Ceremony:
The day will conclude with a group reflection session where participants will have the chance to share their experiences and insights from the past five days. This is an opportunity to discuss how aviation, technology, and innovation are transforming China and the world.

Discussion Topics:

• Impact of Aerospace on Global Industry

• The Role of Green Technologies in Manufacturing

• China's Technological Advancements and Global Position

Farewell Dinner:
To celebrate the end of the tour, participants will enjoy a farewell dinner at a luxurious restaurant in Chengdu, where they can reflect on the entire experience while enjoying a delicious meal. The dinner will be a fusion of traditional Sichuan cuisine and modern culinary techniques, symbolizing the blend of history and innovation that has marked the tour.