Located in Jianhu County, this cultural landmark is built around Huai Opera, a national intangible cultural heritage. What struck me most was how the town blends the charm of an old village with vibrant cultural life, making it a place where the past and present breathe together.
As I wandered through the streets, I saw artisans showcasing their crafts and performers preparing for the next show. Later, I attended a Huai Opera performance based on The Small Town, a famous play that has won top national awards.
The show was immersive and beautifully staged. It felt as though the entire village was part of the performance. What moved me most was watching young performers on stage. It was a clear reminder that cultural heritage survives not through monuments, but through people who keep the stories alive.
My cultural journey continued at the China Yellow Sea Wetland Museum. From the outside, the building immediately catches your eye: a modern structure transformed from an old railway station, with the image of a red-crowned crane spreading its wings.
Inside, it is the first museum in the world dedicated to showcasing the natural and human history of the Yellow Sea wetland region. It houses more than 3,000 specimens, including a sperm whale skeleton and elk remains.
What made the visit truly memorable were the holographic exhibitions and sound installations. At one point, I stood in a darkened room listening to the echo of bird calls and whale sounds as if time itself had rewound.
The museum is more than a display hall. It serves as a platform for education, research, and cultural exchange. It showed me how technology can make heritage more accessible and engaging, especially for younger generations who may not easily connect with traditional exhibits.
In Huai Opera Town and at the museum, I found two sides of Yancheng’s cultural soul: one rooted in living traditions passed down through people, the other preserved and reimagined through modern interpretation.
Both are essential. Yancheng may be known for its wetlands and green industries, but its cultural heartbeat is equally powerful.
These places offer more than sightseeing. They offer a connection to history, to artistry, and to the enduring human spirit that keeps traditions alive.
Hirwa’s path to the arts began during his undergraduate studies at Southern New Hampshire University. In 2019, while still a student, he joined the Writivism Mentoring Program, a project by The Center for African Cultural Excellence. Under the mentorship of Nigerian writer Adeola Opeyemi, he learned a lesson that continues to shape his creative process on the importance of showing rather than telling.
“I am greatly indebted to my time in the program and my mentor Adeola Opeyemi,” he reflects.
“That is the first time I learnt to show, not to tell. Even now in my poetry practice, what sets me apart from my earlier version is that I make sure to show, not to tell. And I believe this makes the poetry more visual. I think that rule also influenced my love for photography, at least subconsciously.”
By 2020, at the age of 22, Hirwa was admitted into the MFA program in Creative Writing at Texas State University, moving to the United States a year later. There, he studied under acclaimed poet Naomi Shihab Nye and refined his voice as a poet. His chapbook Hairpins, published by Akashic Books in 2023, was selected by Kwame Dawes and Chris Abani for the African Poetry Book Fund’s chapbook boxset series. The collection, he explains, captured his early 20s’ struggles with identity.
“The book captures my early 20s’ grapple with identity,” he says. “Most of the poems are attempts at understanding my own masculinity. I wrote the book when I was around 23 years old, fresh out of high school and college, and I had questions about where I stood on the spectrum of masculinity. Am I a soft man, am I a tough guy, why does it matter etc. Those are the ideas the book captured.”
Alongside the chapbook, his poems, essays, and fiction have appeared in Wasafiri, Poetry Society of America, Lolwe, and Transition Magazine. Each piece, whether a poem about solitude or an essay on small spaces, reflects his interest in how identity, belonging, and culture intersect.
But Hirwa’s work is not confined to the page. In 2024, shortly after returning to Rwanda, he staged his first solo photography exhibition, Stilettos, Nikes, and a Basketball, at L’Espace in Kigali with support from the Goethe-Institut. The exhibition marked the start of his photography career and a significant return home.
“The solo exhibition was a marker of various shifts in my life,” he explains. “It also meant that this is a person returning home to show home who he has become. Since my photography captures how I see the world, an exhibition like the one at L’Espace was a way to say to my home ‘this is what I have seen’.”
The response from audiences in Kigali was immediate.
“Attendees had good responses to the exhibition. I remember there is this teenage boy I found sitting on the floor reading a piece of text I had printed on a transparent paper and attached on the white floor. He admired the experimental approach to the curation of the physical display of the artworks, and what more can one ask for?”
Hirwa has since participated in group exhibitions at the Kigali Center for Photography and at The Strand in London, expanding the reach of his street photography. His images often portray the quiet dignity of everyday life—motorcycle taxi drivers in colourful vests, children at play, the textures of Kigali’s neighbourhoods.
His forthcoming full-length poetry collection, Dear Zoe, was a finalist for the 2025 Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poetry. The book, still awaiting publication, focuses on the Rwandan diaspora and the ways people sustain cultural identity abroad.
“The book ‘Dear Zoe’ documents the ways in which the Rwandan diaspora makes a living abroad, such as running or working in hair salons, restaurants, and many other jobs and lifestyles in such cities as Dallas and Brussels,” he says.
“I hope when it gets published, it will spark conversations on how the Rwandan diaspora make a living abroad, and their experiences in relation to identity, belonging, and nostalgia.”
Hirwa acknowledges that his influences are wide-ranging. He cites Teju Cole’s Blind Spot as a model for pairing photographs with prose, Joel Meyerowitz’s mastery of street photography, and Warsan Shire’s poetry about migration and belonging.
“The two men, both Cole and Meyerowitz, have taught me to focus on simple things in my artworks in general, both writing and photography,” he notes. “That is why, as a photographer, I am interested in capturing the beauty in the mundane, which reflects my poetry too in a way. As in, what is a day like for a moto driver working in Kigali during weekdays and going to the provinces on the weekend to his wife and kids? That’s where Warsan Shire comes in. Her poetry is about the humanity of people.”
Living and creating between Rwanda and the United States has also shaped his sense of belonging.
“Living transnationally has distracted this sense of belonging to me,” he admits. “When I was in the US, my poetry was my attempt at staying connected to my roots, my Rwandan culture. But it’s a real hustle since being away most times means whether one likes it or not he or she is acculturating, hence trying to keep the writing originally Rwandan becomes hard.”
For Hirwa, poetry, prose, and photography are not separate practices but interconnected modes of expression.
“Yes, they feed into one another because they are on a spectrum of realism versus abstractedness,” he explains. “My poetry is a transcription of my photography, and my essays and pieces of fiction are translations of my poetry.”
Looking ahead, he envisions expanding into film. Inspired by Rwandan filmmaker Kivu Ruhorahoza and Senegalese director Djibril Diop Mambety, he hopes to bring the same attentiveness to story and image into motion pictures.
For now, Hirwa remains rooted in Kigali, balancing writing with photography and documenting Rwanda with the same patience he first learned under mentorship. Whether in verse or image, his work is an evolving archive of how Rwandans see themselves, at home and abroad.
Umuganura in modern Rwanda: The evolving celebration of culture, unity and growth
Far more than a harvest festival, Umuganura is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s roots, an occasion to reflect on collective achievements, reaffirm national values, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that has guided the country through generations.
Deeply rooted in history and embraced with renewed purpose, this celebration continues to bridge the wisdom of the past with the promise of the future.
Umuganura dates back centuries to the time of the Rwandan monarchy. It was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
Communities across the kingdom would gather to offer the first fruits of their labour, typically sorghum, millet, and beans, as a sign of gratitude for abundance and divine blessing.
At the centre of this tradition stood the King, who played both a symbolic and spiritual role. The harvest was presented to him and, in turn, symbolically offered to the ancestors.
This ritual was not only about agriculture; it was a reaffirmation of national unity, respect for authority, and spiritual connection. Umuganura served as a mirror through which the nation reflected on its values, productivity, and collective identity.
Traditionally, Umuganura brought together various aspects of Rwandan life. Alongside the offering of harvests, the day included rituals, traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These cultural expressions helped reinforce social harmony and educate younger generations about shared values.
The celebration emphasised virtues such as hard work, humility, solidarity, and communal responsibility. It was also a time for communities to assess their achievements and set intentions for the seasons ahead.
{{Umuganura today
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In contemporary Rwanda, Umuganura has evolved into a national reflection point. While its agricultural foundation remains, it now extends to celebrating achievements across all sectors—education, health, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It is a day to acknowledge both individual and collective contributions to national development.
Ceremonies are held at community and national levels, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions of local produce and crafts, and forums for dialogue on the country’s progress. Youth engagement is a key component, with schools and cultural institutions working to educate younger generations about the meaning and importance of Umuganura.
As Rwanda continues to grow and modernise, Umuganura remains a powerful reminder of the country’s rich heritage.
IGIHE spoke to young Rwandans from different walks of life to explore what this treasured tradition means in today’s world, reflecting on its historical roots and how it has evolved over time.
Once centred around offering the first harvest to the king, Umuganura has grown to recognise achievements in all sectors of life. Brighton Rutikanga emphasised how today’s celebration extends beyond agriculture to include progress in education, business, and other areas. He noted that the holiday encourages Rwandans to reflect on past goals and set new ambitions for the future.
Others, like Patrick Nshimiyimana, highlighted the personal and cultural importance of sharing the day with family, recalling warm memories of village celebrations with loved ones.
He and Brighton both celebrated educational accomplishments, seeing university attendance and academic improvement as major milestones. Alongside them, Hirwa Prince and Mutoniwase Fabrine shared stories of personal growth and community contributions, reflecting the spirit of resilience, connection, and national pride that continues to define Umuganura today.
“In the past, Rwanda celebrated by sharing harvests like cassava, beans, and maize. They’d bring them to the king and celebrate together, and it was awesome!”
“Now, it’s more than that. Most people rely on services and other sectors, so we use agriculture as a symbol to celebrate achievements in any field. In my sector, I reflect on last year’s goals and plan for the future,” said Patrick Nshimiyimana.
Umuganura is also a time to reflect on individual journeys and milestones. For many young Rwandans, it’s an opportunity to measure growth, whether in education, career, or service to others.
“The grades that I used to get weren’t good, and I didn’t think it was possible anymore, but my achievement when I got to university is that I started getting good grades. That was a breakthrough, and I’m grateful. This year, I’m still growing professionally, financially, everything,” said Prince Hirwa.
Speaking during the celebration of Umuganura in Musanze District, the Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana reaffirmed the enduring significance of this annual tradition in Rwanda’s cultural identity and national development.
“One may wonder if Umuganura remains relevant today. The answer is a resounding yes,” he said. “While its historical roots lie in agriculture and livestock farming, today’s Umuganura celebrates diverse sectors, including service output, technology, education, tourism, arts, and industries.”
The Minister emphasized that the foundational values of Umuganura, planning, resilience, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotism—are as vital today as they were centuries ago.
Habimana also called on Rwandans to uphold and integrate the values of Umuganura into their daily lives and ensure its transmission to future generations.
The project, led by award-winning architecture studio NLÉ in partnership with Masai Ujiri, president of the Toronto Raptors and founder of Giants of Africa, is scheduled for a grand opening next month.
Originally built in the 20th century as government housing, the building’s historical significance is deeply intertwined with Rwanda’s past.
Situated in Remera and adjacent to the recently renovated state-of-the-art Amahoro Stadium, it once served as the temporary United Nations headquarters during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, providing refuge in one of the country’s darkest chapters. More recently, it housed the Rwandan Health Authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic, further embedding it in the nation’s collective memory.
Now reimagined by NLÉ, a firm founded by Nigerian architect Kunlé Adeyemi and co-led by Berend Strijland, Zaria Court has been transformed from a dormant modernist relic into a thriving centre for sports, hospitality, culture, and entrepreneurship.
“What excited me about Zaria Court was the opportunity to transform a historic site into a vibrant catalyst within Rwanda’s emerging sports ecosystem,” said Adeyemi, known for the Floating Music Hub in Cape Verde.
“Through this development partnership, we demonstrate how architecture can positively impact communities and provide a replicable model of innovative infrastructure, empowering African youth and accelerating sustainable urban development.”
The newly activated Zaria Court offers a diverse range of facilities designed to meet the needs of Kigali’s youth and the wider community. At its heart is a multifunctional event court that hosts sports, music, fashion, and cultural programs, providing a vibrant space for various activities.
The site also includes an 80-room hotel, equipped with a gym, co-working spaces, meeting rooms, a conference hall, a swimming pool, and a rooftop bar, blending comfort with versatility.
Outdoors, visitors can enjoy five-a-side soccer pitches, a dedicated callisthenics training area, and a children’s play zone surrounded by lush native landscaping and open green spaces that encourage safe and informal social interaction.
Adding to its innovative spirit, Zaria Court features a modular retail park constructed from stacked shipping containers, creating affordable commercial spaces for Kigali’s emerging designers, food vendors, and entrepreneurs.
The construction of Zaria Court began in August 2023, marked by a groundbreaking ceremony presided over by President Paul Kagame and Masai Ujiri.
With its completion, it now stands not only as a model of adaptive reuse architecture but also as a powerful symbol of urban regeneration and youth empowerment. As the first development of its kind in Rwanda, Zaria Court embodies a forward-looking vision for community-focused infrastructure across Africa.
The new facility will be unveiled during Imboni Xperience, a flagship event scheduled for July 12, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Imboni Creative venue in Kigali (KG 550 St, No. 12). The event promises an immersive celebration of fashion, artistry, and community.
According to the organisers, Imboni Xperience will bring together some of the country’s most talented fashion designers, accessory makers, and visual artists in a vibrant showcase that reflects the richness and diversity of Rwandan creativity.
The Imboni Creative Hub is a dedicated space designed to support, connect, and nurture the next generation of designers and innovators.
Described as a “home for emerging talent,” the new Creative Hub will offer young Rwandan creatives access to workshops, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities.
At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to cultivating a community-driven approach to creativity, where artisans can co-create, share expertise, and collectively shape the future of Rwandan style.
“We believe the true magic of creativity shines brightest when it’s nurtured collectively. Our goal is to uplift these passionate talents so they can craft their own futures and inspire others to do the same,” said Ibambe Johnson, who co-founded Imboni Creative alongside two others.
Through the Imboni Creative Workshop, young designers and accessory artists will gain exclusive access to hands-on mentoring and the tools they need to hone their skills, spark their creativity, and bring their visions to reality.
With this celebration of art, fashion, and community, Imboni Creative invites all to come together and embrace the spirit of collaboration at the Imboni Xperience event, where “ideas blossom, tradition meets innovation, and artistry becomes a shared journey.”
Envisioned and developed as a premier cultural tourism district and resort area, Luyuan Village spans a substantial 370,000 square meters, demonstrating the scale and ambition of this undertaking.
The core objective of Nishan Luyuan Village is to vigorously promote Confucianism and offer visitors a comprehensive and immersive cultural experience. This is achieved through a carefully curated blend of architectural attractions that evoke traditional Chinese aesthetics and resonate with the Confucian era, alongside a rich program of cultural performances designed to bring the teachings, arts, and traditions associated with Confucius to life.
This is where my journey started, in the place where Confucius was born more than 2,500 years ago. As I explored the place, I began to see how his teachings—about respect, family, and learning, are still influencing people today, even as far away as Rwanda.
Just across from Luyuan Village lies Mount Ni, also known as Nishan. This mountain holds deep cultural significance as it is traditionally considered the birthplace of Confucius.
According to historical records, Confucius’s parents prayed at Mount Ni for a child, and shortly thereafter, his mother gave birth to him.
Mount Ni is home to several historical sites, including the Confucius Cave, where, according to legend, Confucius was born. The area also features ancient temples and academies dedicated to Confucian teachings.
From there, I visited Nishan Sacred Land, a large cultural park built to celebrate Confucius’ life and ideas. The University Hall stood tall and quiet, while the Hall of Benevolence, a space for reflecting on Confucian virtues, shimmered with golden phoenixes on the ceiling—symbols of virtue and renewal.
I walked through a hallway filled with clay statues of Confucius’ students. Each had a story: Yan Hui, who found joy in simple things; Min Sun, who deeply respected his parents; and Zizhang, known for honesty and self-control.
In the Hall of New Learning, an educational and interactive exhibition space within Nishan Sacred Land, I discovered the “Six Arts” that young people in Confucius’ time were taught: music, writing, archery, charioteering, math, and rituals. These weren’t just skills—they were lessons in living with balance and self-discipline.
As I stood there, I remembered conversations I’d had back in Kigali with Rwandan students learning Chinese. Some of them speak about Confucian values like respect, hard work, and humility the same way these ancient students might have.
The Confucius Institute in Rwanda opened in 2009. At first, only a few students signed up—many thought learning Chinese was too difficult. But over time, interest grew. Today, nearly 20,000 Rwandans have learned Chinese through the Institute. For them, it’s not just about the language—it’s also about building bridges between cultures and learning values they can apply in their own lives.
Later in my trip, I went to Qufu, the hometown of Confucius. There, I visited the Confucius Temple, a peaceful place with red pillars and a golden roof. Under the shade of old trees, I listened to stories about ancient ceremonies and how they were meant to teach gratitude and social harmony—not just to honor the past.
Nearby, I toured the Kong Family Mansion, where Confucius’ descendants lived for centuries. Inside, I saw how his teachings helped guide not just personal behavior, but even the laws of emperors and the running of governments.
Back in Kigali, celebrations for United Nations Chinese Language Day echoed this cultural exchange. This year’s theme, ‘Chinese Language: A Gift Across Time and Space,’ was a reminder of just how far this ancient language has traveled and how deeply it’s being embraced in places like Rwanda.
Zeng Guangyu, director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda, recently told Xinhua that Chinese language skills have opened doors for Rwandan learners, enabling them to secure jobs, win scholarships, study in China, and even start businesses.
I realized that Confucius’ legacy is not confined to stone monuments or ancient texts. It’s alive in classrooms, in conversations, and in the dreams of young people who are using language not just to speak, but to connect, to grow, and also to build a future across cultures.
Though I did not understand the lyrics, the harmony and rhythm spoke to my soul. The Grand Song of Dong is a mesmerizing a cappella folk tradition that has endured for over 2,500 years.
Originating from the Dong people of China’s Guizhou Province, this unique choral art form was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.
Unlike conventional choral performances, the Grand Song of Dong requires no conductor or instrumental accompaniment. Instead, it masterfully blends multiple vocal parts to recreate sounds of nature, labor, love, and history.
The Dong people, an ethnic minority group with a rich cultural heritage, have historically relied on music to preserve their traditions.
Without a written language for much of their history, they passed down knowledge, moral values, and communal wisdom through songs. This makes the Grand Song more than just an artistic expression. It is a living repository of the Dong people’s history and way of life.
At the concert, each performance seemed to capture a different facet of Dong culture. Some songs mimicked the chirping of birds and the whispering wind, reinforcing the group’s deep connection with nature.
Others conveyed emotions of love, friendship, and collective memories. The seamless blend of voices created an auditory experience so rich and immersive that it felt like stepping into a different world.
Liping County, often referred to as the “capital of Dong Township,” plays a central role in preserving and promoting this tradition. The Liping Grand Song of Dong Ethnic Group (LPGS), established in 1972, has been instrumental in showcasing Dong music on global stages.
The ensemble has performed in France, Italy, Russia, and beyond, earning international acclaim. The influence of the Grand Song extends beyond traditional folk circles.
LPGS has collaborated with prominent artists, including Belgian pianist Jean François Maljean and celebrated Chinese musicians. Their performances at prestigious events, such as the 2008 Olympic Games and the 10th International Choral Festival in Vienna, underscore the global significance of this musical heritage.
As the concert drew to a close, I found myself wishing for more. Though it lasted nearly two hours, the performance felt fleeting, a testament to the captivating nature of the Grand Song of Dong.
Fortunately, I left with more than just memories. I had captured short videos and photos, preserving the magic of the evening. Experiencing this extraordinary tradition firsthand reaffirmed the timeless power of music to connect people across cultures.
The Grand Song of Dong is not just an art form; it is a bridge between past and present, between tradition and modernity. And for one unforgettable night, I was fortunate enough to walk across it
The exhibition hall showcases the Party’s history, achievements, and milestones through artifacts, documents, multimedia displays, and interactive exhibits. Located in Beijing’s Chaoyang District, near the Olympic Park, it stands as a testament to the CPC’s century-long journey.
Inside, visitors encounter an extensive collection of historical items and photographs, including rare Party documents, original manuscripts, and personal belongings of key leaders like Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. Advanced multimedia technology enhances the experience, bringing history to life.
Beyond being a historical archive, the hall serves as an educational and patriotic site, reinforcing the Party’s legacy and development. It has become a key destination for Party members, students, and researchers.
A visit to the Museum of the Communist Party of China is a rare and unforgettable experience. Walking through its vast halls offers a deeper appreciation of the Party’s enduring influence.
Here are five fascinating facts about the museum:
{{1. The Largest Party History Museum in China
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Spanning an impressive 150,000 square meters, the CPC History Exhibition Hall is the largest museum dedicated to a political party in China.
Unlike other historical museums that focus on isolated events, this hall presents a sweeping narrative of the CPC’s evolution. It chronicles defining moments such as the Long March, the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, and the country’s economic reforms in the late 20th century.
{{2. Over 2,500 Exhibits
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Key exhibits include original documents from the First National Congress in 1921, marking the Party’s founding; relics from the Long March, such as weapons, clothing, and personal items used by Red Army soldiers; and Mao Zedong’s handwritten notes and speeches, including the declaration of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
Others are records from China’s economic transformation under Deng Xiaoping, highlighting key policies of reform and opening up; and technological achievements, including China’s space program, high-speed rail development, and the Belt and Road Initiative.
{{3. A High-Tech Approach to History
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While deeply rooted in historical narratives, the museum embraces cutting-edge technology to immerse visitors in the CPC’s past.
One of the museum’s most striking features is its use of cutting-edge technology to bring history to life. A 360-degree immersive theatre transports visitors into key moments of the past, from the intense battles of the Red Army to China’s groundbreaking first spacewalk.
Artificial intelligence narrators provide insightful commentary, offering deeper context and guiding guests through the Party’s historical milestones. Augmented reality reconstructions further enhance the experience, allowing visitors to engage with digital recreations of historical events.
This seamless fusion of history and technology makes the museum’s storytelling not only immersive but also particularly appealing to younger generations accustomed to digital interactions.
{{4. Symbolic Architecture
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The CPC History Exhibition Hall stands as a symbolic structure, with every detail of its design reflecting the Party’s revolutionary spirit.
The architecture is laden with meaning, with each feature serving as a reminder of the Party’s enduring legacy. The striking red façade captures the essence of the Party’s revolutionary roots, while a massive golden hammer-and-sickle emblem underscores the CPC’s leadership role in shaping the nation.
A grand star-shaped dome, inspired by the Great Hall of the People, symbolizes national unity and strength. Inside, sculptures and murals of key CPC figures like Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and Deng Xiaoping highlight their pivotal contributions to China’s development.
Central to the building, the main structure takes the form of the Chinese character “人” (ren), meaning “people,” symbolizing the Party’s steadfast commitment to serving the people.
{{5. Xi Jinping’s Personal Involvement
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The establishment of the CPC History Exhibition Hall was personally overseen by President Xi Jinping, who stressed its importance in reinforcing Party unity and educating future generations. Beyond preserving history, the museum serves a political function, shaping narratives about the CPC’s legacy.
Before its official opening, Xi Jinping led a delegation of senior Party officials on a private tour, underscoring its significance. Today, the hall is a mandatory stop for Party cadres and students, reinforcing ideological training.
As Xi Jinping has frequently stated, “History is the best textbook.” The CPC History Exhibition Hall stands as a powerful instrument in preserving and promoting the Party’s vision for China’s future.
However, one experience stood out above the rest: my encounter with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly acupuncture.
Traditional medicine is an integral part of every culture. In Rwanda, I have often heard about traditional healing practices, but I had never personally explored them. However, when I travel, I make it a point to experience new things firsthand.
So, when the opportunity arose to visit Beijing Massage Hospital, I knew I had to try acupuncture—one of the most renowned components of TCM.
Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a premier institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.
Established in 1958, the hospital has built a stellar reputation for integrating TCM practices with modern rehabilitation techniques. It is particularly known for treating musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic pain through methods such as tuina (therapeutic massage), acupuncture, and herbal medicine.
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. While some people dismiss it as quackery, I was eager to judge for myself.
What made my experience even more interesting was that, on the morning of my visit, I woke up with a nagging pain in the upper right part of my back. Whether from poor posture or an awkward sleeping position, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test acupuncture’s effectiveness.
Walking into Beijing Massage Hospital, I was immediately struck by its calm and orderly atmosphere. After a brief consultation, I was guided to an acupuncture specialist who assessed my condition and explained how the treatment could help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.
As the session began, I felt a slight prick as five thin needles were inserted into targeted points on my back. Contrary to my expectations, there was no real pain—just a mild tingling sensation.
I lay still, breathing in the serene environment as the needles worked their magic. The entire process lasted about 10 minutes. While I wasn’t instantly cured, I felt a noticeable sense of relief and a soothing warmth where the needles had been placed.
Just before my session, a friend who accompanied me opted for a general health check-up using traditional Chinese diagnostic techniques. What I witnessed was nothing short of fascinating.
The doctor placed two fingers on her right wrist, closed his eyes briefly, and then asked her to open her mouth so he could examine her tongue. After only two minutes of assessment, he confidently diagnosed her with digestive issues, sensitivity to cold, and a need for more exercise.
To my amazement, my friend confirmed that all his observations were accurate. It was incredible to witness the precision of this ancient diagnostic method, which relied solely on pulse reading—a practice that has existed in China for thousands of years.
Beijing Massage Hospital offers a wide range of TCM treatments beyond acupuncture, including medical massage (tuina), moxibustion, rehabilitation therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine consultations, among others.
My experience at Beijing Massage Hospital was eye-opening and reaffirmed a saying in my native Kinyarwanda: “Buri gahugu n’umuco wako,” which means each country has its own culture and practices.
Located in the southeast of Beijing, Tongzhou is often referred to as the eastern gateway to the Chinese capital. With its strategic location at the northern end of the Grand Canal and the easternmost point of Chang’an Avenue, this district has transformed into a hub of administration, culture, and cutting-edge technology.
At the center of Tongzhou’s transformation stands the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center (BMAC), proof of the city’s vision for sustainability and green development.
This contemporary complex represents Beijing’s attempts to decentralize and ease traffic in its historic center.
As I strolled through the administrative center, I was astounded by how well it integrated eco-friendly architecture and cutting-edge urban planning with its surroundings.
The exhibits within the building narrate the remarkable story of Beijing’s growth, showcasing decades of urban evolution while staying rooted in its cultural identity.
{{Drifting through history on the Grand Canal}}
Leaving the administrative center, I set off for a boat ride on the Grand Canal, a moment that turned out to be both educational and deeply immersive.
As I sat on the upper deck, a chill from the air bit through my t-shirt, but I hardly noticed. The guide’s narration transported me centuries back to when this marvel of engineering was constructed.
Built over 1,400 years ago, the Grand Canal is the longest and oldest canal in the world, stretching over 1,700 kilometers and connecting Beijing to Hangzhou.
This waterway, once a lifeline for trade and cultural exchange, passes through different municipalities and provinces, facilitating the movement of goods and people for generations.
Listening to its history while gliding over its waters was an amazing experience.
{{A library like no other}}
From history to innovation, my next stop was the Beijing Library, a structure that left me fascinated the moment I walked in. Its stunning architecture, which was designed to mimic a mountain, is an example of how science and nature can coexist.
Stepping inside, I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its collection. Home to over 8 million books, including works by President Xi Jinping, the library attracts 10,000 visitors on weekdays and twice that number on weekends.
What fascinated me the most was the technology embedded within the facility. From AI-powered book-sorting robots to immersive digital reading experiences, the library represents the future of learning.
If it weren’t for my tight schedule, I would have spent an entire day exploring its many wonders.
{{The innovation hub of tomorrow}}
Beyond its cultural and historical sites, Tongzhou is fast becoming a hub for technology and new energy enterprises. Companies like Colorfulead, Bor Ewin Technology Co Ltd and Wisson are leading the way in green innovations and robotics.
As my day in Tongzhou came to an end, I reflected on what makes this district so unique. It is a place where history, nature, and technology intertwine to create something extraordinary.
