Bay to Beijing

Tag: food

  • Day 11 – Closing Ceremony: The Final Day in Tianjin

    Author: Staci Edwards | Contributor: Kash Brown

    We kicked off Day 11 bright and early, waking up around 7:00 AM to get ready for one of our last full days in China. By now, our morning routine felt familiar—breakfast at 7:30 AM, meeting in the hotel lobby, and boarding the charter bus together.

    Our first stop was Ancient Chinese Culture Street. We’d been here earlier in the trip, but our group leader wanted to give everyone a chance to revisit for some final shopping or to check out stores we might’ve missed the first time around. It was a thoughtful way to help us wrap up our time in Tianjin—and a nice moment to soak in the local energy one last time.

    As usual, the locals were incredibly kind and welcoming. A few approached us, shy but excited, asking to take photos. We were happy to oblige—it was a sweet reminder of how much cross-cultural connection can happen in the simplest moments.

    We had about 45 minutes to explore and shop. Some stores sold beautiful jade pieces, handmade fans, traditional Chinese silk dresses, tea and snacks, while others offered calligraphy art and souvenirs.

    There was even a back alley with knockoff goods, but the vibes felt a little sketchy, so we didn’t linger there for long.

    Once we wrapped up, we met back at the designated meeting point, snapped a few group photos in front of a lion statue, and boarded the bus.

    Next stop: lunch at Song Zhi – The Old House. This meal felt like a celebration on its own. The spread was stunning—spicy garlic chicken, bok choy, fried seabass with sweet and sour sauce, and so many more flavorful dishes. Every bite was a reminder of just how incredible Chinese cuisine really is, and how much we’ve come to love it over these past few days.

    Song Zhi – The Old House Restaurant
    Seabass fish with sweet and sour sauce

    With full stomachs and full hearts, it was time to head to the closing ceremony—a moment we knew would be emotional, but unforgettable.

    As we got closer to the end of our journey, more students began to feel sad. We’ve all gotten so close to one another and we didn’t want to see us part ways just yet. However, the closing ceremony made us feel so much better, as we got to interact more with the international students. We explored the different booths of Chinese calligraphy, traditional Chinese clothing, painting, and so much more. We had a blast talking with the HEBUT students and giving them the gifts we brought from the United States.

    Then, it was time for the performances. Staci Edwards represented the American students as one of the hosts for the ceremony.

    We got to watch other international students sing and dance, and we also confidently performed “Cielito Lindo”, “Count on Me”, and “Cha Cha Slide”.

    The amazing Nohely Peraza even performed a step dance to “Stir Fry” by herself. Go Nohely!

    Through the closing ceremony, we all realized how grateful we were for this incredible opportunity to travel to China from America. We were wonderfully shocked by how welcoming everyone was and how much we actually wanted to take advantage of our 5-year visa and come back. We reflected on how much we will never forget this experience.

    As the closing ceremony wrapped and we looked around at all the faces—new friends, familiar teammates, and supportive leaders—it hit us just how far we’d come. From strangers to a tight-knit family, this journey gave us more than just memories; it gave us perspective, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for cultural exchange. We laughed, danced, shared, and grew. And while we may be heading home soon, the lessons, friendships, and experiences we’ve gained will stay with us long after the plane ride back. China gave us more than we ever expected—and for that, we’ll always be thankful.

    We closed out the evening with an incredible hot pot dinner at Hi, one of the most memorable meals of the trip. Hot pot is more than just a dish—it’s a full experience. At the center of each table was a simmering pot of flavorful broth, and we cooked our own ingredients right there—thinly sliced meats, fresh vegetables, seafood, and more. It was interactive, customizable, and totally communal—perfect for reflecting on the trip together over great food.

    To top it all off, the staff surprised us with a fun performance, singing and dancing while we enjoyed our meal. It was the perfect way to celebrate our last night in China.

    That’s a wrap on our final day in Tianjin! Next, we’ll begin our journey back to Beijing as we prepare to head home. Stay tuned for the last leg of this unforgettable adventure!

  • Day 8 – Planes, Precision, and Pastries

    Author: Antonio Valverde | Contributor: Kash Brown

    Today started off a little differently than usual. The night before, we were informed that one of our group leaders wouldn’t be joining us for the rest of the trip—she had tested positive for COVID. The following morning, one of the students who wasn’t feeling well the day before also tested positive. Our group leaders responded quickly and thoughtfully, bringing masks, antibacterial wipes, electrolytes, and medicine to help keep everyone safe. They wiped down the bus and reminded us to stay masked throughout the day. One of the chaperones even made a plate of food and fruit for the student who would be staying behind at the hotel. It was a moment of community care that set the tone for how we moved forward—together.

    After breakfast, the rest of us boarded the bus for a full day of industry tours and cultural experiences. Our first stop was Airbus Tianjin. When we first arrived we were greeted with heavy security along with the disclaimer that were not allowed to bring our phones on the tour, however we were able to capture a few photos of the outside area.

    We climbed four flights of stairs to get to the top floor of the factory for a full view. During the tour we were presented with deconstructed airplanes across multiple warehouse buildings. It reminded me of how in video games you can build your car and customize different parts of it. We saw half painted wings, detached tails, and suspended airplane bodies. We also learned that constructing an airplane at this company is a big collaboration effort with other countries as not all parts are constructed here in China. Over 75,000 to date.

    After our tour, we headed to the Sea-Gull Watch Company. When we arrived, a tour guide greeted us and immediately directed our attention to the ground, where a giant sundial-style clock was embedded in the pavement. She stood at the 12 PM mark, raised her right arm, and explained that based on the sun’s position and the time of year, your shadow would point to the current time. A few of us took turns trying it out—it was a fun and unexpected way to kick off the visit. Then we headed inside to begin the tour.

    We learned that Sea-Gull is one of the leaders in the watchmaking industry and it was prevalent in their rich history and attentive detailed designs. Before entering the museum we were presented with life size human operated clock on the floor that used our bodies and the sun to tell time. Another personal highlight for me was getting up close to the inner workings of the watches on display. 

    My favorite part of the day though would have to be learning how to make a Mahua which is considered a signature food of Tianjin. The Mahua consists of a twisted fried bread which can have a range of topping and flavorings added to it. Before we got to make our own Mahua’s we walked through a museum mapping out the history of this signature dish. We learned that the first Mahua was created hundreds of years ago and the same technique is still being used today. The process today has been expedited with the use of machines in order to quickly produce more but the initial twisting technique is still made by human hands.

    When it was our turn to start making our own Mahua it proved to be quite difficult at the start but once I got the twisting motion down I was set. It was relaxing and therapeutic in my opinion getting the experience of making this delicious ancient pastry.

    Afterwards we were gifted gift bags with Mahua and other goodies along with a framed puzzle. We were then released into a market where many boxes of Mahua made it back to the hotel with us. Overall it was a very eventful day of museums and good food.

    From aerospace innovation to centuries-old snack traditions, Day 8 was a reminder that precision, creativity, and culture come in many forms. Whether we were watching planes take flight or twisting dough by hand, we walked away with a deeper appreciation for the people and processes behind the things we often take for granted. And as always—good food, good people, and new memories made the day one to remember.

  • Day 7 – Politics, Culture, and Connection

    Author: Kash Brown | Contributor: Maira Chavez Ortiz

    We kicked off Day 7 the same way we had most mornings—up by 7:30 AM, breakfast by 8:00, and on the charter bus by 8:30. At this point in the trip, we’d all settled into a rhythm. The nerves had eased, friendships had grown stronger, and we were finding comfort in the routine—and in each other.

    Our first stop of the day was Hebei University of Technology for a full schedule of lectures and cultural exchange. Professor Hui Wang led the first lecture, The Path of Chinese Politics, giving us a deep dive into how China’s system is designed to support long-term growth and stability. From electric vehicles and environmental reform to universal education, we learned how China’s approach is rooted in planning, intention, and collective progress. It was wild to hear that Beijing had only 176 days of good air quality in 2013—and how major reforms have turned that around in just a few years. One thing that stuck with us? Electric vehicles are never restricted under China’s driving limitations. That’s how committed they are to clean energy.

    We also explored China’s education system—learning how Chinese characters are broken down into phonetic blocks and how, through laws like the 1986 Compulsory Education Law, China eliminated illiteracy among young and middle-aged adults by 2000. Since 2006, basic education has been tuition-free for both urban and rural areas. That’s the type of policy impact we could all learn from.

    Once the first lecture wrapped up, we made our way to the university’s Teacher’s VIP Lounge for lunch. Somewhere along the way, half of our group got separated and ended up lost. While walking around trying to find the others, our group leader spotted a student riding by on her bike and asked if she could help. She kindly offered to guide us and actually rode alongside us toward the lounge. Halfway there, we ran into the rest of our group, so we thanked her for her help and asked if we could snap a quick photo before she continued on her way. Once we arrived at the lounge, we split into three tables and were served a diverse spread of dishes. The real highlight, though? A surprise scoop of ice cream at the end. Simple, but elite.

    After lunch, we met up with about 18 Chinese university students outside the dining area for a casual cultural exchange. Some of us were paired one-on-one, while others doubled up—no one seemed to mind. We had a little over an hour to connect, and even though we were given a wide range to explore the campus, our group leaders encouraged us to stay nearby. Some students hung out at a local coffee shop, some explored the food court, and others took their time walking through the campus library.

    One fun cultural difference? Naps. After lunch, most of the Chinese students went to take a nap—which, honestly, we respected. It brought us back to kindergarten days and made a lot of sense. Rest to reset. America, take notes.

    What stood out most during these interactions was how similar we all were—bonding over music, photography, fashion, and our favorite snacks. We exchanged WeChat info, took a big group photo, and made our way to the next lecture.

    Professor Shanglian Zhang welcomed us with high energy for her session on Diversity in Harmony: The Essence of Chinese Culture. She had previously taught the Finnish students who joined us, so there was a cool familiarity and vibe in the room. She spoke about China’s geography, its 14 bordering countries, and the incredible diversity in dialects, food, folk art, and traditions across regions. She broke down Confucian philosophy and what defines Chinese national character—diligence, kindness, hospitality, and balance. It was both educational and inspiring.

    After a full day of learning, we headed back to the hotel to rest up. Or so we thought. About 15 minutes after we checked in, the power went out. Thankfully, we had just gotten off the elevator (close call!). Luckily, it came back on within 20 minutes.

    Around 30 minutes later we were notified by the group leader to meet in the hotel lobby so we could out for dinner—this time all together in one room with three large tables and the usual lazy Susan setup. Most dishes were familiar by now, but one in particular stole the show: a ramen dish that came out displayed on a wooden plank, with the noodles draped over two chopsticks that were propped up in the center. It was basically made for a photo op—and yes, we all got the shot.

    After another amazing meal, a few of us decided to grab a foot massage before turning in for the night. Definitely one of the more unique experiences on this trip so far, but honestly, much needed after all the walking and long days. We made it back to the hotel feeling relaxed, full, and grateful.

    Today reminded us that the heart of cultural exchange isn’t just in the lectures or history lessons—it’s in the quiet conversations, shared laughs, and moments of connection. Whether we were learning about politics, discussing our favorite artists, or comparing philosophies on rest, we walked away with a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of something global. And that’s something we’ll carry with us, long after the trip is over.

  • Day 6 (Pt. 1) – Xiong’an – Smart Cities, Spicy Lessons, and Shared Stories

    Author: Staci Edwards

    (Xiong’an and Chili Farm)

    On Day 6, most of the group members began to feel settled in. We were making new friends, laughing at each other’s jokes, and trying new foods with one another. For some of us, this was our first time traveling internationally, but the positivity of Bill Kwong, Joy, and Emily made everyone feel safe and welcomed. Some students even began to feel a little homesick, but other members stepped in to remind them that we have each others’ backs.

    After learning a bit about the rich history of China, the American students went to Xiong’an, also known as “The Smart City”. We took a look around the amazing developments and then headed to the museum that highlighted the great potential future of the area. The exhibition was amazing—from the holograms, to the projected images, to the physical mini representation of the city, we were shocked at the level of detail the museum put into creating a meaningful experience for its audience.

    Many of us bought a few items from the store of the museum, like bookmarks, incense, notebooks, pins, and stamps. Some of us actually spent more money than we anticipated! It was all worth it in the end though, because we got to bring these souvenirs home as gifts for our loved ones. Joy was also quick to help us translate when we weren’t sure of what something was <3.

    After an insightful visit to the Xiong’an exhibition, we went to a well-renowned chili farm with the Finnish students! We learned about how the factory uses the chilis’ sizes, color, length, and curvature to determine which ones they will sell and throw away. We got to test what we learned by sorting the chilis ourselves, AND even got to try one!

    Then, we participated in a panel where American students and Finnish students talked about how their respective countries are doing what they can to help their people thrive. What an interesting topic!

    Day 6 reminded us that growth isn’t just found in history books or high-tech exhibits—it’s found in connection. Whether we were in awe of futuristic holograms, sorting chili peppers by hand, or sitting in a circle sharing stories with students from Finland, we realized how different—and yet how similar—our worlds truly are. As this journey continues, one thing is clear: it’s not just about the places we visit, but the people we experience them with.

    The story continues… Day 6 (Pt. 2): Xiong’an – A Trip to the Future by Dennyce Martinez Arriaga

    Checkout more photos here.

  • Day 5: Echoes of the Past, Seeds of the Future

    Author: Bryan D’Mar Zepeda-Carranza

    The day after checking in to our hotel in Fuping, we started the morning by visiting one of two rural villages in Fuping. Historically, the area served as an important military post helping the Chinese army push back the Japanese; its mountainous terrain made it suitable for guerrilla warfare against the imperial army. Today, Fuping is described as having some of the poorest villages in the Hebei province; possibly largely ignored by previous Chinese leaders who were more focused on developing Chinas economic hubs. President Xi Jinping has promised to eliminate poverty in rural areas; his leadership aims to prioritize development in areas of need like Fuping and not just major metropolitan areas. 

    We walked up some steps into a very clean courtyard with a large TV in the center showing president Xi Jinping speaking to a woman. We found out that the courtyard and the area around was the woman’s former home and president Xi Jinping visited this exact location more than 10 years ago. To our surprise, the woman in the video appeared in front of us and shared her experience. Speaking a local Chinese dialect, Joy who is from Inner Mongolia and shares a similar dialect, attempted to translate. We learned that the village was in very poor condition before the governments visit. The villager went into detail about how difficult life was like back then having to care for her children and not having much food to live off of. Joy later explained she could feel the emotion coming from her voice. We also got to see the inside of her former home. Inside we were able to see a Northerner’s bed style which used the fire for cooking to warm the bed during winter. 

    We next got a small tour of a few villager homes, where we could see some of their personal belongings. Facing the main entrance was a  wall with a portrait of Mao and president Xi Jinping.

    We then continued to see more homes, this time former homes. The walls of these homes, over 100 years old, were made out of grass and mud; it was very hard to see inside since these homes did not have electricity. Walking in one actually reminded me of how many village people in Mexico, like my own mother, also lived like this. It made me wonder what she would think seeing homes of similar design all the way in China. We then visited another local area where the president met with not just village leaders but also the villagers themselves to discuss needs for the village for happiness.

    After visiting the villages, we then went to visit a mushroom farm that had biotechnology assistance. With assistance from researchers, the mushroom spores are exposed to intense sterilization techniques before seeded in optimal conditions in warehouses. 

    Here, we learned that this farm provides mushrooms to many supermarkets in China. I reflected here a little on how we were getting a glimpse of the sustainability China has in feeding its massive population. Of course, the visit ended with everyone having the opportunity to try one of their delicious mushrooms.

    Today reminded us that behind every government initiative or headline are real people with real stories. Walking through the village, hearing a mother’s voice crack with emotion, and seeing homes made of earth and grit grounded us in the resilience of rural China. From century-old homes to biotech-powered mushroom farms, Day 5 was a powerful reminder of what progress looks like—and how deeply connected our stories can be across borders.

  • Day 4 (Pt. 1) – Beyond the Label – What ‘Made in China’ Really Means

    Author: Nohely Peraza

    On May 16 we traveled from Tianjin to Fuping by bus, about a 3 hour drive. Fuping is located in a more rural area of China. General Secretary Xi Jinping visited Fuping County in December 2012. Fuping had been considered one of the poorest villages in the country, and the government worked with local officials to increase access to basic needs such as food, medical care, housing, and jobs. We visited a village the following day, on Saturday, May 17th, but on Friday we got an introduction to the region through its food, workers, and history. 

    When we arrived in town for lunch, we passed by a wedding celebration on our way to our dining room. It was so beautiful to see the red colors and hear the firecrackers honoring the newlyweds! Every single meal we have had has been delicious and expanded our taste palettes.

    After lunch, we visited a processed foods factory. The factory packaged fresh, locally-grown produce as well as ready-to-eat foods such as noodles and dumplings. Due to an increase in work productivity and the busy nature of family life, the demand for dried instant meals has increased. It was very interesting to see the flow between machine and manual labor, a juxtaposition we reflected on greatly throughout this trip, but especially in Fuping. 

    We then visited a factory that produced school uniforms. We saw how the material is cut using laser technology, is sorted for workers to assemble and sew, and transported on hangers to another floor for inspection and packaging.

    We also visited the museum that walked us through the history of school uniforms in China. A member of our group, Jeremy, played around with the settings on an AI uniform generator, and created ideas for Eastside uniforms! 

    After seeing how school uniforms are made, we made a brief stop at United Uniform Manufacturers, which makes uniforms for military, police officers, nurses and doctors, etc. We even saw a California Highway Patrol uniform, over 6,000 miles from home. This definitely puts into perspective seeing the words “Made in China” on our clothing and other goods. This experience enhanced our understanding of mass production, shipping, and at its core, the hard work of Chinese locals who are providing for their families and who have witnessed major changes to their local communities. 

    After the factories, we went to the Baoding Jinjachi Border Region Revolutionary Memorial Hall, which commemorated the Chinese Communist Party’s guerilla warfare tactics and victory over the Nationalist Party during the Chinese civil war.

    The museum was built to recognize Chairman Mao’s presence in this region during the war. We walked around the room he stayed in during this time period. It was chilling to be surrounded by the mountains where this history took place. We were struck by the graphic images of the violence endured by Chinese civilians during the time of Japanese occupation. 

    We then had a short ride to the hotel, where we ate dinner and then had free time to explore the local area. I went with some friends to the mall, and communicated with the help of gestures and my translation app to buy a pair of shoes.

    Day 4 took us deeper into the heart of China. From factory floors to powerful moments in history, we saw firsthand the resilience, innovation, and hard work that shape communities like Fuping. Each stop reminded us that behind every product and place, there are stories—and people—worth honoring. Another successful day!

    Checkout Day 4 (Pt. 2): Fuping’s Work, War, and Welcome by Lorenzo Lopez

  • Day 3 – A Day in Tianjin – Ports, Culture, and a Night on the Water

    Author: Jazmin Carrillo Morales

    We had an early wake-up call on Thursday, May 15. After breakfast at the hotel and a two-hour drive, we arrived at the Tianjin Harbor, one of the busiest ports in the world. Our tour guide met us there, he was very knowledgeable and passionate about the port’s history, current operations, and future development plans. He showed us a detailed map of the port city, and it honestly blew my mind how much infrastructure exists just to support the port’s workers and the surrounding community. It’s basically a city within the port.

    We also got to step inside one of their wine distribution centers, where they handle orders and prepare shipments. The tour was short and to the point, but packed with insight, especially for anyone interested in logistics or global trade. It gave us a better understanding of how products move around the world and how efficient systems keep everything running behind the scenes.

    After the tour, we headed to lunch, and it did not disappoint. The spread was incredible: fresh salad, noodles, tender chicken, fluffy pork buns, soup, tofu, and more. Everything was flavorful and comforting.

    Next up was a visit to the Ancient Cultural Street in Tianjin, one of my favorite stops of the entire day. The street was stunning, packed with colorful traditional buildings that looked straight out of a movie, lanterns hanging overhead, and vendors lined up selling everything from handmade jewelry to street food. We had about an hour and a half to explore on our own, and I could’ve stayed even longer.

    Walking through the street felt like stepping back in time, but in the best way. I had so much fun hopping between shops, trying to communicate with local vendors using a mix of hand gestures, basic Chinese, and smiles. I ended up buying earrings, a bookmark, and some Chinese chocolate to bring home for friends and family. A few of us also bought beautiful traditional hair clips, and the woman who sold them even styled our hair for us right there. It was such a sweet and unexpected moment.

    There was something really special about that street: the architecture, the energy, the sense of tradition. Every corner felt meaningful, like I was surrounded by living history. It felt amazing to not just observe, but actually engage in Chinese culture.

    After soaking in the vibrant energy of Ancient Cultural Street, we were guided to a nearby shop for a virtual tour of Tianjin. Using an interactive display, they walked us through how the city’s waterways connect across borders—showing how the rivers and sea flow directly into the port area. One highlight was learning about Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty and his excavation of the Yongji Canal, a major engineering feat that played a key role in shaping China’s transportation and trade routes.

    After that, we went to dinner, which once again was a feast. The dishes just kept coming: roast duck, rice, soups, veggies, pork, chicken. Every bite was delicious. You could tell everyone was satisfied and excited for what was coming next.

    And that next part was magical, a nighttime boat cruise through the city of Tianjin. As we boarded, the city lights began to glow, casting reflections on the water. For the next hour, we glided through the river, surrounded by illuminated skyscrapers, lit-up bridges, and crowds of people out enjoying the evening. The whole city felt alive. It was peaceful, beautiful, and a little surreal. Just sitting there on the boat, taking it all in with my friends, felt like something out of a dream.

    We ended the night by heading back to the hotel, tired, full, and grateful. It was a day filled with new sights, cultural connections, and moments I’ll remember for a long time.

    Day 3 in Tianjin was one for the books. From exploring one of the busiest ports in the world to walking the vibrant streets of Tianjin’s ancient market, every moment was layered with history, beauty, and connection.

    More adventures ahead… stay tuned.


    #EastsideToChina #TianjinAdventures #GlobalLearning #CulturalExchange #FromEPAtoChina #AncientCulturalStreet #PortOfTianjin #SuiDynastyHistory #LivingHistory #YouthCulturalTravel #TravelDiaries #StudentVoicesAbroad #EastsideStrong #ChinaImmersionProgram #JourneytotheEast

  • Day 2 – Tianjin Vibes, Cultural Exchange & AI Robots

    Author: Kash Brown

    Rise and shine—our first full day in China was packed.

    We were up early, dressed in matching blue polo shirts provided by Hebei University of Technology, ready for our first cultural deep dive. The shirts were fresh, but let’s be real—they ran super small. If you normally wear a medium, you were rocking an XL. Fashion adjustments aside, we came downstairs ready to roll.

    When we got to the bus, we found out we’d be sharing transportation with another student group—about 24 students from Finland here for a three-month study program. We were encouraged to mingle and connect, and naturally, we sat on opposite sides of the bus at first (them on the left, us on the right), but energy was open and positive all around.

    Breakfast, Tianjin Style

    After experiencing a full banquet-style dinner the night before, we expected something similar for breakfast. Instead, we pulled up to a humble local restaurant with outdoor seating on the sidewalk. It was cozy and authentic.

    The staff was welcoming and wasted no time bringing out dish after dish of traditional Tianjin breakfast foods like Jianbing guozi —some dishes were different, some surprisingly good, and one in particular—a sweet bread—was a hit with everyone. We could’ve eaten that all week.

    Jianbing guozi

    After eating, we had a few minutes to talk with the Finnish students before heading to our next stop.

    Touring the Hebei University of Technology Museum

    At the museum, we split up into two groups—Americans with one tour guide, the Finnish students with another. We took a group photo outside before beginning a one-hour tour through China’s educational and cultural history.

    One part of the tour that stood out: learning how a former Chinese leader discouraged education, encouraging people to live as peasants. Later, under new leadership, China shifted to a forward-thinking model, valuing education and forming partnerships with global universities like Cambridge. Seeing how they evolved into a hub for innovation and technology really hit home.

    Another highlight from the museum tour was learning about Yu Zitan, the first female college student to attend Hebei University of Technology. She broke barriers by enrolling in the Department of Chemical Manufacturing and later went on to become a professor at the Northwest Institute of Technology, paving the way for future generations of women in STEM.

    Before leaving, we took a bathroom break and got our first real intro to Chinese restrooms. Instead of Western toilets, they had squat-style ones—a cultural adjustment for sure. Luckily, we’d been told to bring our own toilet paper, but it was still a surprise for most of us.

    Opening Ceremony & Introductions

    Next up: the official opening ceremony at Hebei University of Technology. We met education leaders, international students, and Abby—the local program lead for Journey to the East. Each of them introduced themselves and shared what they hoped we’d gain from the program.

    Then it was our turn. One by one, we shared our names, backgrounds, and what we were most excited to learn while in China. After intros, we were called up in groups of five to receive our very own Hebei University of Technology backpacks and take a group photo. A great touch to make us feel welcomed.

    Lunch: Lazy Susans & 20+ Dishes

    We headed to lunch where we were seated in three private rooms upstairs, each with large round tables and spinning tabletops (lazy Susans). It made it easy to try everything without reaching across the table.

    They brought out dish after dish after dish—at least 20 in total. There was a heavy presence of pork (about 60% of dishes), but we also had chicken, tofu, beef, and veggie options. A few of our group members had shellfish and peanut allergies, so we had to wait for Joy, our translator, to tell us which dishes were safe—which wasn’t always immediate. One standout surprise? A dessert-looking dish that turned out to be cold mashed potatoes with berry sauce. Unexpectedly good.

    Robotics, AI & 3D Printing Innovation

    After lunch, we visited the Scientific and Technological Achievement Center at Hebei University of Tech. The center was focused on robotics and AI.

    They began with a lecture on innovation, tech design, and how students at the university turn their ideas into reality. Afterward, we got to see some of their work in action—robots built by students that were controlled by remotes and could shoot golf balls across the room. A few of us even got to test them out before moving on to our next challenge: building our own miniature robots.

    To kick things off, we were split into six groups, mixing American and Finnish students together to build our own AI robots using 3D-printed parts. They showed us a video tutorial that made the process look easy—but once we got started, we quickly realized it was more complex than expected. Some teams ran into wiring issues, while others got their robots up and running smoothly, responding to voice commands and prompts.

    Once we wrapped up the activity, they let us keep the completed robots we built—definitely a cool souvenir and a reminder of what we’re capable of when we collaborate and problem-solve together.

    Hands-On Dumpling Making + Dinner

    To close out the day, we headed to a restaurant for a dumpling-making session. None of us had done it before, so it was a fun, hands-on experience. We learned how to flour the dough, add the filling (pork or seafood), and fold it into proper dumpling shapes.

    Soon after, the Finnish students arrived and joined in. Once everyone finished prepping their dumplings, the restaurant staff cooked them and brought them out with the rest of our meal. Eating something we’d actually made ourselves made the meal that much better.

    Calling It a Night

    After dinner, we hopped back on the bus and returned to the hotel to finally wind down. It was a full day of cultural exchange, history, hands-on learning, and new friendships forming—exactly what this program is all about.

    Tomorrow’s another adventure. Let’s go!

    #EastsideToChina #China #Tianjin #GlobalLearning #StudentVoicesAbroad #EastPaloAlto #FromEPAtoChina #CulturalExchange #EastsideCollegePrep #YouthCulturalTravel #AIandInnovation #Dumplings

  • Day 1 – Bay to Beijing

    Author: Kash Brown

    It’s Official—We’re headed to China!

    After months of anticipation and prep, we’ve finally kicked off our Eastside China Immersion Program with a long flight from SFO to Beijing! Since getting selected in March, the excitement’s been real—and now that we’ve landed, it’s all starting to sink in.

    This program, hosted by Hebei University of Technology, gives students, alumni, and college students from Eastside College Prep a chance to experience China firsthand. It’s about more than just travel—it’s about breaking down stereotypes, learning through connection, and building bridges through food, language, art, music, and shared culture.

    Our trip wouldn’t be possible without Bill Kwong, our group leader and the heart of this experience. He’s been with us every step of the way—from organizing info sessions and handling logistics to dropping gems about Chinese culture, helping us get our visas, and guiding us throughout the trip.

    Departure Day: SFO International Airport

    We started the journey early in the morning with 23 of us—students, alums, and chaperones—meeting at SFO. It was raining (classic Bay Area weather), but everyone showed up on time, excited and ready. The check-in process was smooth, and once we got to the gate, Bill gave us a warm welcome and led an icebreaker game so we could get more familiar with one another.

    Right before boarding, United Airlines offered $2,500, hotel, food vouchers, and miles to anyone willing to give up their seat. Tempting, but with our whole crew flying together, we had to pass on that one.

    Flight to Beijing – 13 Hours in the Air

    Once we boarded, we had a bit of a delay—about an hour—because they needed to rearrange the luggage to balance the plane’s weight. Then it was wheels up to Beijing!

    The flight was about 13 hours long, and United kept us well-fed (though the meal names didn’t match the timing). Our first “breakfast” was actually dinner: chicken or beef stir-fry, a side salad, roll, cheesecake brownie, and a drink. A few hours later we had a lighter meal—balsamic chicken with arugula and mozzarella—and before landing we got our “dinner” (which was actually breakfast): scrambled eggs, sausage, potatoes, fruit, croissant, and juice. Confusing, but solid.

    Between naps, chatting, and filling out our customs forms, the flight went by smoother than expected.

    Arrival in Beijing – Humidity & Hospitality

    The second we stepped off the plane, the humidity hit us hard—a big shift from the Bay! We navigated the airport, took a quick shuttle to customs, and got through pretty quickly. After scanning our carry-ons and picking up our checked bags, we noticed one student’s bag didn’t make it. Luckily, Bill was on it and made sure it’ll arrive tomorrow.

    We were welcomed at the airport by our local hosts and boarded our private charter bus to dinner.

    First Meal in China – A Warm Welcome

    Our first dinner in China was the perfect start to this trip. The food was amazing, the setting was beautiful, and the hospitality was unmatched. We tried a wide range of dishes, shared laughs, and really started to feel the cultural exchange come to life.

    After dinner, we headed to our hotel. Bill had let us know that the hotel plans changed the day before, which ended up being a win—the Holiday Inn we checked into was modern, clean, and comfortable. A great spot to get some rest after a long day.

    Day 1 – In the Books

    From the rainy streets of East Palo Alto to the chill vibes of Tianjin, Day 1 was packed with firsts, bonding, and a lot of anticipation for what’s next. We’re excited to explore, connect, and share our experiences along the way.

    Stay tuned—this journey’s just getting started.

    Check out more photos here.