Every May Day, Chengdu’s Wuhou Shrine, nestled in Sichuan province on the Chinese mainland, transforms into a vibrant hub of culture and history. This year, an adventurous Italian expat swapped his usual routine for a day behind the scenes, stepping into the shoes of a shrine staff member.
With a mix of excitement and jitters, he joined the opening parade, donning traditional attire and marching alongside locals. The rhythmic drums and swirling banners offered a crash course in ceremonial tradition, while friendly onlookers cheered him on, bridging cultural gaps with every smile.
Later, he manned the Heritage Market stall, offering fans, silk scarves and miniature replicas of the shrine. Between greeting thousands of visitors and mastering mobile payment apps, he learned that selling culture requires more than just a pitch—it demands storytelling and genuine curiosity.
Language hurdles popped up when explaining the significance of Zhuge Liang’s legacy, but gestures and digital translation tools kept conversations flowing. By the end of the day, he had not only sold souvenirs but also collected heartfelt wishes from travelers around the globe.
This immersive adventure highlights how hands-on experiences can deepen cross-cultural understanding. For travelers and digital nomads, diving into local traditions like these offers lessons you won’t find in guidebooks—ones that forge real connections and lasting memories.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
