Organized by the Department of Industrial Engineering and MEM(Master of Engineering Management) Education Center of Tsinghua University, Ms. Haitao Wang and Ms. Rui Lu, as well as more than 50 international and Chinese students, alumni and their family members gathered at Yanqi Lake on October 29, 2023, immersing themselves into the most vibrant and colorful Beijing's autumn scenery and extraordinary experience of cycling, hiking and cross-culture.

Group Photo at Yanqi Lake

The day commenced with a lively warm-up session and a professional safety guidance, setting the tone for the exhilarating activities that lay ahead. Attendees, eager and ready, participated in stretching exercises as they prepared to explore the scenic beauty of Yanqi Lake. To promote collaboration, camaraderie, and a deeper cross-cultural exchange and communication, participants were divided into six groups and each group was assigned several tasks as well.

Warm-up and Cycling Safety Guidance

Guided by a professional cycling coach, all the participants could enjoy the cycling experience at their own pace, whether they were seasoned cyclists or beginners. The cyclists pedaled along the picturesque lakeside trails, breathing in the crisp air and admiring the vibrant foliage that enveloped them. The cycling route served as an ideal icebreaker, offering participants a chance to engage in spontaneous conversations while appreciating the scenic beauty. The diversity of languages, accents, and perspectives created a dynamic environment where participants were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and communicate beyond linguistic boundaries.

Cycling Ride at Yanqi Lake

The afternoon was dedicated to hiking the Xishan Trail of Yanqi Lake, a breathtakingly beautiful journey that rejuvenated even those who might have felt tired from the morning's cycling excursion. The serene surroundings offered a stunning colorful backdrop for capturing the autumn's splendid palette, and attendees made the most of this opportunity, capturing the vivid reds, oranges, and yellows of the season with their cameras. With the happy laughter and cheerful voices along the hiking, this unparallel natural experience offered an intriguing aspect to the expedition and a deeper cross-cultural engagement.

View of Xishan Trail at Yanqi Lake

As the day came to a close, the return journey was full of harmony and newfound friendships, singing from classic Chinese songs to popular English songs. This cross-cultural gathering was not only an opportunity to relish the natural beauty of Beijing but a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the lasting connections that can be formed when diverse perspectives come together. As autumn's vibrant hues transition to winter, the memory of this special day will remain etched in the hearts of all participants.

Students’ Voice

“The well-organized and action-packed event gave us plenty of chances to share our experiences living in China and discuss the similarities and differences between our cultures. I had the opportunity to have in-depth conversations with alumni from different countries and cultures, which allowed me to make friends from all over the world and expand my global perspective.”

------ Thi Ha Hlaing(段观保), 2017 GM Program

“Cycling and hiking at Yanqi Lake was a delightful experience. The serene surroundings and the organised activities brought us together, making it a wonderful way to spend time with fellow students, alumni, and their families. Amidst the picturesque landscape, we shared laughter and stories, creating a unique sense of unity and connection that made our day at Yanqi Lake truly special.”

------ Roberta Liu(刘叡澹), 2023 PM Program

“The involvement of cycling and hiking at Yanqi Lake demonstrates our commitment to fostering camaraderie, promoting physical fitness, and encouraging work-life balance. By engaging in outdoor excursions, we have the opportunity to connect with nature, build stronger interpersonal relationships, and rejuvenate our minds. Participating in such events not only showcases the group's dedication to personal well-being but also creates an inspiring environment that enhances creativity, collaboration, and overall performance.”

------ Bolong Yin(阴勃龙), 2023 MEM Program

Writers: William Guey, Rui Lu

Photographers: Lulin Shen, Yutan Yi, Rui Lu

Reviewers: Haitao Wang, Liang Ma, Lefei Li