In Miskolc, a northeastern city in Hungary, a Chinese professor is bridging cultures one cup of tea at a time. Fan Liyun, 59, known as Kristi to her students, has witnessed a remarkable surge in interest in Chinese culture at the University of Miskolc’s Confucius Institute, where she teaches Chinese language and culture.
“Since I arrived here in 2019, the number of students has at least doubled,” Fan remarked, her eyes gleaming with pride. “We usually held activities to attract students before new semesters. But it seems it’s no longer necessary as we almost had full enrollment before this semester started.”
Fan attributes this growing enthusiasm to the universal appeal of tea culture. By introducing traditional Chinese tea ceremonies and the rich history behind them, she has sparked curiosity and fostered deeper understanding among Hungarian students.
“Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a way of connecting people,” she explained. “Through tea, students learn about Chinese philosophy, art, and ways of life.”
The Confucius Institute at the University of Miskolc has become a hub for cultural exchange, drawing students eager to explore new horizons. The popularity of Fan’s classes reflects a broader trend of increasing interest in Asian cultures across Europe.
“It’s inspiring to see how a simple cup of tea can bring people together,” said one of her students. “Kristi’s classes have opened up a whole new world for us.”
As Fan continues to brew understanding and friendship between China and Hungary, she exemplifies the profound impact that cultural ambassadors can have in fostering global connections.
Reference(s):
A Chinese professor starts tea culture craze at a Hungarian university
cgtn.com
