A bilingual approach to read Sanya's cultural history together

On Oct 25, a group of expats, English enthusiasts and local readers gathered at Sanya Library to delve into the cultural richness behind Sanya's landscapes through bilingual readings, cultural insights and interactive discussions.

The book reading and sharing event, formally titled "Beyond the Sea: Reading the Cultural Soul of Sanya", was organized by the Sanya Library under the guidance of the Sanya Municipal Bureau of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports, and co-hosted by the Sanya Public Cultural Center.

The session was led by Xiangzi, an English-speaking trainer in Sanya. He chose sections on Yazhou's historical culture from Savoring Sanya, a culture and history guidebook that came out last month, and used local historical sources to present Sanya's history in straightforward English, aiming to help international guests gain a deeper understanding of the city.

During the event, Xiangzi introduced a few historical sites in Sanya such as the Luobi Cave and the Yingwang Tower, explaining their cultural significance. The session also featured bilingual poetry appreciation, offering participants a chance to experience the cultural ambiance of ancient Yazhou.

One expat living in Sanya noted that while she was familiar with the city's coastal beauty, the event introduced her to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Yazhou, showcasing Sanya's diverse cultural appeal. Many international attendees expressed interest in visiting Yazhou Ancient City themselves.

This event served as a new platform for cultural exchange, connecting Chinese and international cultures through English reading. It also made Sanya's historical culture more accessible to an international audience.