Promoting the Unique Charm of Zuoying Old Town Business District through the 2023 International Volunteer Program

The Old Town Business District Development Association in Kaohsiung is actively pursuing funding from the Kaohsiung Economic Development Bureau for its "Know Old Town International Volunteer" project. Collaborating with a team led by Professor Lin Yicheng and Professor Lu Meifei from Wenzao Ursuline University, the association is recruiting and training local international volunteers proficient in Chinese, English, and Japanese. The initiative aims to plan multilingual walking tours around the Lianchi Lake area, highlighting the unique features of the surroundings. This project is envisioned to bring new business opportunities to the post-pandemic Zuoying Old Town business district, aligning with Wenzao University's commitment to social responsibility.

Zhang Meihua, the chairwoman of the Old Town Business District Development Association explained that the project includes three routes, Explore Old Town - Safeguarding the Seasons of Spring and Autumn, Stroll through Old Town - Let's See the Past and Present Together, and Waterfront Old Town - Gods Protecting and Ensuring Peace. Recruitment of international volunteers began publicly in August 2023, with training starting in September after the launch ceremony held on August 26, coinciding with the lantern release and market activities around Lianchi Lake. English and Japanese roaming tours were conducted on October 7, 14, and 28, accompanied by engaging Qi Bing DIY sessions.

Recruitment for English and Japanese-speaking international volunteers included students from various departments at Wenzao Ursuline University, along with 53 professionals in the industry, including English and Japanese-speaking guides. Training was conducted by Gong Shuyong, the project manager for the OUR TOWN University Social Responsibility program, Chen Shuying, head of the Japanese department, and Lu Junwei, a teacher from National Pingtung University of Science and Technology. The three routes attracted enthusiastic participation, with a total of 163 participants, including 30 foreigners, showcasing the cultural and commercial charm of the Old Town.

Through on-site exploration and guided explanations, participants gained a deeper understanding of the rich history and unique stories of local businesses and products. For example, the century-old Chess Cake Cultural Center, with its guiding principles of "innovation, care, nature, and heritage," is known for its popular souvenir, the Chess Cake, made from organic agricultural ingredients. Another business, Hexing Tea House, focuses on the motto "Meeting Friends with Tea, Fragrance Drifting in the Old Town," and is renowned for handpicked tea leaves, specializing in black and oolong teas. Other establishments, including Yang An Pharmacy, Shengfu Wonton, Li Cheng Commercial, Pan Coffee, Xiang Tea Beverage, and Liantan Water Slide Theme Park, are dedicated to developing products that attract visitors while actively participating in community-related development activities.

The collaboration between the Old Town Business District Development Association and Wenzao Ursuline University not only promotes economic development for nearby businesses but also provides a learning and exchange platform for Wenzao students and international volunteers, including English and Japanese-speaking guides. This initiative encourages young people to gain a deeper understanding of local life and culture, fostering tourism development in the area while preserving and promoting the beauty and historical context of Kaohsiung's Old Town.