OUR TOWN Project collaborates with youth from Japan and Taiwan to co-create an international cross-cultural perspective

"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.

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.