by Eileen, Student
"OUR TOWN Sustainable Cross-Domain Collaboration Platform Project" by Wenzao Ursuline University's University Social Responsibility Initiative assisted in hosting a field trip on February 1, 2024. A total of 138 students and teachers from Da-Yi Junior High School in Kaohsiung City and Tomakomai Senior High School affiliated with Komazawa University in Japan were welcomed to explore the historic sites of Zuoying Old Town. During the excursion, led by teachers Gong Shuyong and Weng Xinyi, along with four intern students with language proficiency in English and Japanese, the young participants were guided to learn about the historical stories of the temples and landmarks in the Zuoying Old Town area.
The walking tour began at the East Gate of Zuoying Old Town, passing through the Zuoying Old Town Jian Cheng Museum and Lianchi Lake, and visiting local attractions such as the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas and Ci Ji Temple. Under the guidance of Wenzao students and teachers, the participants also had the opportunity to experience the traditional way of entering the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas for good luck. Furthermore, with the introduction from Wenzao students and teachers, the youth gained insights into the historical narratives behind the deity Bao Sheng Da Di. The interns expressed that the highlight of their experience was using their language skills to introduce Zuoying Old Town to foreigners and witnessing the participants' focused and joyful engagement.
"Our Town" organized this cross-domain collaborative activity to expand opportunities for local cooperation. By promoting collaboration between Zuoying Old Town and educational institutions, associations, and various organizations, the project aims to leverage resources, professional expertise, and relationship networks to create more local services and learning opportunities. This, in turn, enhances the cultural literacy of the local community and extends its influence. Through cross-domain collaborative activities, the project seeks to increase international exchanges, thereby elevating the visibility of Zuoying Old Town in Kaohsiung on the global stage.
This collaboration with Da-Yi Junior High School in Kaohsiung and Tomakomai Senior High School in Japan showcased the unique cultural heritage of Zuoying Old Town through a guided tour, emphasizing Wenzao's capabilities in nurturing cross-domain talents. Future expectations include more opportunities for international exchanges to strengthen students' cultural learning and global understanding.
A group photo of all participating teachers and students.
A group photo of the faculty from Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages and Da-Yi Junior High School.
A group photo of participating teachers and students by the side of Lianchihtan.
Teacher, Weng Xinyi (leftmost), leading Wenzao intern students in presenting the guided tour content.
Teachers and students actively visited the Tzu Chi Temple in the old town of Zuoying.
Teachers and students attentively listening to the English and Japanese guided tour commentary.
