Hinghwa Cultural and Culinary Journey
On October 11, 2024, the Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa) Network and Chan Brothers Travel jointly kicked off the "Hinghwa Food and Cultural Tour," offering participants a unique chance to immerse themselves in the flavors and traditions of Hinghwa. The event aimed to foster cross-cultural exchanges while providing food and culture enthusiasts with a journey back to their roots.
Rich Cultural and Culinary Experiences
The trip brought together 73 participants from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with 69 Singaporeans of Hinghwa descent. For most, this was a homecoming to visit family or reconnect with ancestral heritage, while others came to experience authentic Hinghwa cuisine. The group, including members of the Singapore Puxian Network and Chan Brothers Travel clients, created a lively atmosphere. There were even non-Hinghwa participants who were visiting Hinghwa (Putian) for the first time, expressing excitement and fascination.
Upon arrival in Putian, the group visited Putian University, where they were warmly welcomed by Song Chaoyang, Vice President of the Putian Overseas Chinese Federation, and Zeng Jianpeng, Deputy Director of Cultural Relations. They underscored the importance of cultural connections and extending hometown traditions overseas. The university’s grand campus and impressive library left a strong impression, prompting many to take photos to commemorate the experience.
Song Chaoyang, Vice President of the Putian Overseas Chinese Federation: A warm welcome to the Singapore Puxian (Hinghwa) Network delegation on their hometown visit and cultural tour.
The tour attracted participants from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with 69 of them being Singaporean Hinghwa natives
The spacious campus and grand library of Putian University left a deep impression on the group members
The Scenic Beauty of Jiuli Lake and the Artistry of Sanfu Gallery
On October 15, the group traveled to Xianyou to visit the picturesque Jiuli Lake. Surrounded by lush mountains and set against emerald-green waters, the lake offered a refreshing escape. Later, they visited the Sanfu Art Gallery, which houses exquisite redwood furniture that showcases Putian’s traditional craftsmanship. The stunning woodwork received high praise, offering a glimpse into the artistry that has long been part of Chinese cultural heritage.
The picturesque Jiuli Lake, like a scene from a poem
The exquisite redwood furniture at the Sanfu Art Museum fully showcases the charm of Putian’s traditional craftsmanship
Exploring the Ancient Guanghua Temple
The group also explored Guanghua Temple, a Buddhist site with a 1,400-year history. This revered temple, often described with the saying, "Before you leave Hinghwa, visit Guanghua," serves as both a spiritual and cultural foundation for the region. Nestled in a serene environment of pines and cypresses, the temple impressed visitors with its tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Guanghua Temple, with its lush pines and tranquil atmosphere, feels like a serene paradise on earth
Encountering the Art of Wood Carving at Chunhui Art Gallery
Putian’s wood carving tradition is renowned, and the group had a special opportunity to see the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" sculpture by master artist Zheng Chunhui. Taking four years to carve from a single piece of camphor wood, this detailed sculpture vividly captures the bustling life of the Northern Song Dynasty. The group was honored to meet Zheng Chunhui himself, engaging in a discussion about his creative process and the cultural significance of wood carving in Putian. Chunhui Art Gallery serves as a major platform for local artists and a place where visitors can reflect on the beauty of these traditional art forms.
At Chunhui Woodcarving Art Museum, visitors admired the intricately carved "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" up close
A Taste of Hinghwa Opera and Culinary Delights
During the tour, participants enjoyed both local cuisine and performances of the unique Hinghwa opera. Known for its melodic singing and expressive storytelling, Hinghwa opera draws from folk tales, bringing the emotions and traditions of Hinghwa to life. The combination of food, art, and culture allowed participants to gain a deeper understanding of Putian's heritage.
The group’s cultural journey into Puxian opera
A Pilgrimage to Meizhou Island, Home of Mazu Belief
The group then journeyed to Meizhou Island, the sacred birthplace of Mazu, revered as the goddess of the sea by millions of devotees worldwide. In the early morning, participants took part in the solemn incense-offering ceremony at the ancestral Mazu Temple, feeling the spiritual significance of the ritual. Amid the rising fragrance of incense, the group followed traditional gestures, paying homage to Mazu with hands clasped and incense raised high—a moment that connected them to centuries of tradition.
That evening, the Mazu Light Show illuminated the night sky, blending vibrant lights and music to create a magical spectacle that celebrated Mazu’s enduring legacy in a way that bridged ancient belief with modern art.
The solemn morning worship ceremony at the Mazu Temple
Wuyishan: Tea Culture and Scenic Tranquility
The journey concluded in Wuyishan, where the group enjoyed a peaceful bamboo raft ride through crystal-clear waters amid stunning mountain scenery. Visits to historic tea plantations and Wuyi Palace enriched the experience, as participants learned about Wuyishan’s famed tea culture, indulging in the fragrance and flavors of locally crafted teas.
Amidst the clear waters of Wuyi Mountain, the picturesque peaks create a breathtaking landscape that leaves visitors enchanted
Hinghwa Homecoming: A Fusion of Flavors and Heritage
This journey was more than just an exploration of cultural sites; it was a celebration of Hinghwa identity through the flavors of home. From comforting bowls of Hinghwa noodles to traditional rice cakes, these foods brought back fond memories for many participants. For some, this was not just a culinary experience but a heartfelt reconnection to the Hinghwa spirit and a reminder of the vibrant heritage they share.
The journey has left a lasting impression, blending nature, history, cuisine, and tradition into an unforgettable exploration of Hinghwa culture.
