More than 60 international students from 10 countries recently learned the traditional Chinese art of sachet making during a cultural activity held by the East China Normal University Global Education Center in Shanghai.
The activity featured Chen Xingzhi, a representative inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage of sachet making in Shanghai's Minhang district.
During the activity, Chen share with the students the origins, production techniques, and spice formulas of sachets. These small bags not only symbolize good luck, health, and safety but also represent a fusion of traditional aesthetics and Chinese medicine culture.
Under Chen's guidance, the students embarked on a creative journey to sew their own exquisite sachets. The process involved filling the embroidered pieces with cotton and herbal powder, sewing them together, and adding finishing touches like tassels.
Chen was impressed with the students' finished products and encouraged them to further explore the beauty of intangible cultural heritage.
A student from the United Kingdom found the activity enjoyable and said, "I created a beautiful sachet in my favorite color, red. Participating in this activity allowed me to experience Chinese culture."
Elizabeth from Russia, who had never made a sachet before, found the activity interesting. She proudly showcased her creations and expressed her desire to keep them as souvenirs.
A Japanese student was also excited about the two sachets she made. One resembled a dragon robe and contained Chinese herbs, while the other was a red bag. She said she plans to hang them in her room as decorations.
