Journey to Anyang: Home of Chinese Characters

As a passionate traveler and cultural enthusiast from Pakistan, I have always been fascinated by the diversity of human heritage. My academic journey as a PhD student at Tianjin University's (TJU) School of Civil Engineering has provided me with the invaluable opportunity to explore China's rich history and traditions. To date, I have visited 20 Chinese cities — from Kashgar in the west to Shanghai in the east, and from Beijing in the north to Xiamen in the south — each offering their own unique cultural experiences.

I was fortunate to join a cultural trip to Anyang, central China's Henan province, one of China's ancient capitals and the birthplace of Chinese characters. This week-long journey, which combined participation in the International Chinese Characters Conference with cultural exploration, left me deeply inspired.

Our tour began at the Lingquan Grottoes and Kunyushan, where Buddhist carvings harmoniously blend with stunning natural scenery. During visits to local villages, I admired how the residents have preserved their traditions while embracing modernity. A highlight of the trip was learning calligraphy and receiving the word "Pakistan" written in oracle bone script — the earliest form of Chinese writing, discovered in Anyang.

The conference provided fascinating insights into the evolution of Chinese characters, transforming them from mere pictorial representations to a more structured and approachable language. At the Chinese Writing Museum, we had the chance to see Shang Dynasty oracle bones, which marked a revolutionary milestone in linguistic history. In the evenings, we were treated to spectacular cultural performances, including a mesmerizing drone show that beautifully depicted Anyang's rich heritage.

This immersion in the cultural roots of China was truly unforgettable. The warm greetings of "Bātiě!" (Iron Brother) from the locals constantly reminded me of the special bond between our two nations. Anyang isn't just a city — it is a living testament to the vibrancy of China's ancient civilization.

The author is a PhD candidate in TJU.

Source: Science and Technology Daily