Kathmandu— More foreigners are shifting from simply observing China to embracing its culture in their daily lives. From American Emma Chen drinking unfermented Pu'er tea during the summer solstice to German art teacher Anke Deber cooling off with a refreshing drink along the Grand Canal, visitors and residents alike are finding new ways to connect with Chinese traditions and modern conveniences.

Ancient Traditions in Modern Life

American Emma Chen, a volunteer guide at Hangzhou's Liangzhu Museum, follows ancient Chinese practices like drinking unfermented Pu'er tea during the summer solstice. She has immersed herself in China’s Neolithic cultures and now helps visitors understand the wisdom of the Liangzhu civilization through its sophisticated social structure and farming practices. Chen also studies museum management at Zhejiang University and translates books on Liangzhu culture, sharing these stories with a global audience.

Direct Encounters Reshape Perceptions

German art teacher Anke Deber braves the summer heat to explore China’s landmarks like the Grand Canal and West Lake. Thanks to visa-free policies, her journey is seamless from boarding a flight with a Chinese friend. She sketches ancient pavilions and ceramics, capturing the charm of Oriental life in her artwork. Social media and expanded exchanges are reshaping how the world experiences China through direct encounters and personal stories.

Cultural Appeal Grows

The trend of 'becoming Chinese' has gained momentum on social media, with content creators around the world adopting Chinese habits like drinking hot water or wearing slippers. This cultural resonance reflects China’s rising appeal and the increasing understanding between different civilizations. A Pew Research Center study shows a median of 46 percent of respondents across 20 countries hold favorable views of China, up from 32 percent in 2023.

Entrepreneurship and Cultural Exchange

Ugandan entrepreneur Adikin Rose Mary has embraced livestreaming platforms to share the social customs and everyday life of rural China with millions of followers. Her homecoming tour to Uganda also drew significant attention, showcasing cultural exchanges between China and Africa. Italian vlogger Leonardo Lazzari shares his experiences in China on TikTok, attracting over 26,000 followers and planning customized travel packages featuring traditional Chinese medicine experiences.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.