Chinese people and Chinese culture

Beyond the technological marvels, one of the most surprising and delightful aspects of my time in Chengdu has been its food culture. Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, particularly the famous numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns. My first encounter with hotpot, where you dip fresh ingredients into a bubbling pot of spicy broth, felt like an immersion into a new world. The heat was intense, but the warmth of the people made the experience unforgettable. The Chinese people, particularly in Chengdu, are incredibly welcoming and genuinely curious about visitors from abroad. From my professors to local shopkeepers, I am always met with smiles, open conversations, and a readiness to help. My language barrier, which initially seemed daunting, became less of an issue thanks to the kindness and patience of the people around me. They were more interested in understanding where I came from, what I am studying, and how I feel about their culture than simply viewing me as an outsider.

This openness to connection is something that I hadn’t anticipated. It’s not just about Chinese hospitality; it’s about a genuine desire to exchange knowledge, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections.

My experiences have shattered the stereotypes of the cold, reserved Chinese people often portrayed in media. Instead, I’ve found a warm, inquisitive, and proud society eager to share its progress and learn from others. China’s digital success is not confined to its borders. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Digital Silk Road, China is exporting digital infrastructure to developing countries, empowering them to leapfrog traditional stages of technological development. From Africa to Southeast Asia, China’s expertise is shaping global digital policies, influencing standards in cybersecurity, AI ethics, and e-governance.

In conclusion, China’s digital transformation, exemplified by cities like Chengdu, offers invaluable lessons for the world. By prioritizing infrastructure and digital inclusion, China has successfully empowered its citizens and positioned itself as a global leader in innovation. As I reflect on my time in China, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness this transformation firsthand. The experience has not only reshaped my perception of China, but has also deepened my understanding of the possibilities that digital advancement holds for global development. If the world truly seeks to bridge digital divides and drive inclusive growth, there is much to learn from China’s remarkable journey.

In my eyes, China is not just a rising power: it is a blueprint for the future of digital development.

About the author: 

Ama Bonuah Quaye is from Ghana. She is a postgraduate student at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), and an assistant at the Center for West African Studies of UESTC.

References

1. https://www.cdht.gov.cn/gaoxin/c141902/2025-01/27/content_4e099d10e0074ba9af1a7e40ae5424aa.shtml

2. https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/4662030-ai-integration-transforms-chinas-transport-sector#:~:text=In%20Chengdu%2C%20southwest%20China's%20Sichuan,with%20a%20drone%20docking%20station.

3. https://www.iot-now.com/2020/11/27/106265-chengdu-making-strong-push-to-foster-next-gen-ai-technology/

4. http://en.people.cn/n3/2023/0811/c90000-20057243.html