5 Days Shu Non-Inherited Craftsmanship Immersion

Destinations: Chengdu

Tour Features:

This hands-on cultural study tour focuses on Chengdu's intangible cultural heritage, allowing international students to learn from master craftsmen, practice traditional skills like Shu embroidery and shadow puppetry, and understand the philosophy of "craftsmanship" behind ancient Chinese arts. The itinerary balances theory with practice, with English-speaking instructors guiding every step to ensure deep cultural understanding.

Best Season: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November) (mild weather for workshop activities)

Entry City: Chengdu (direct international flights from London, Tokyo, Singapore, etc.)

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Shu Culture

Morning: Arrive at Chengdu Shuangliu/Tianfu International Airport; private transfer to student-friendly hotel (with Western-style rooms and 24h service). Orientation session: overview of Chengdu's history, safety guidelines, and tour highlights.
Afternoon: Visit Chengdu Museum – guided tour of the "Flower-Covered Guan City" exhibition to learn about the origin of Shu crafts (Shu embroidery, lacquerware, gold and silver work) with interactive displays.
Evening: Explore Kuanzhai Alley – taste local snacks (sugar painting, egg cakes) and observe street artists demonstrating traditional crafts. Group dinner at a Sichuan restaurant (mild flavors available).

Day 2: Shu Embroidery Master Class

Morning: Visit Shujiang Brocade Academy (Shu Embroidery Museum) – watch ancient wooden loom demonstrations, learn about the 3,000-year history of Shu embroidery from professional guides.
Afternoon: Hands-on Shu embroidery workshop – under the guidance of inheritors, practice basic stitches and complete a small souvenir (bookmark or coaster) .
Evening: Cultural sharing session – students present their embroidery works, discuss cultural differences in craftsmanship with instructors.

Day 3: Shadow Puppetry & Lacquer Art Exploration

Morning: Chengdu Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park – watch authentic Sichuan shadow puppetry performances, learn about puppet making and storytelling techniques.
Afternoon: Shadow puppet workshop – design and color personal puppets, then perform short skits with peers. Visit the lacquer art studio to experience simple lacquer polishing.
Evening: Free time to explore Jinli Ancient Street – optional shadow puppet show tickets available for deeper experience.

Day 4: Traditional Craft & Modern Creativity

Morning: Visit Tianyi Nongyuan Art Expo Park – tour the living cultural laboratory, see how traditional crafts are integrated into modern design.
Afternoon: Creative workshop – combine Shu embroidery elements with contemporary art to make cultural souvenirs; interact with local art students.
Evening: Farewell dinner with craft-themed decorations; exchange works with new friends.

Day 5: Summary & Departure

Morning: Study tour summary meeting – share insights, complete a cultural quiz, receive completion certificates.
Afternoon: Private transfer to Chengdu Airport according to flight schedule.
Evening: Flexible departure arrangements (late-night flights accommodated with airport lounge access).