Singapore International School Students Education Tour in Lijiang

Lijiang, Yunnan, is a vibrant destination offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and ethnic diversity. This educational tour is designed to immerse students in the traditions and ecological conservation efforts of the region, while also enhancing their understanding of sustainable tourism practices and traditional craftsmanship. Through hands-on activities, academic sessions, and cultural exploration, the students will gain valuable insights into the Naxi culture, history, and the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Educational Philosophy and Approach

Educational Philosophy:
The educational philosophy of this tour emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to explore and understand the world around them. By engaging with local communities and ecosystems, students will gain:

• Cultural Awareness: Understanding and respecting the rich history, traditions, and customs of the Naxi people.

• Sustainability: Exploring sustainable tourism practices and how they contribute to the preservation of Lijiang’s natural and cultural heritage.

• Hands-on Learning: Through immersive activities such as local crafts, farming, and trekking, students will deepen their connection to the region’s traditions and ecology.

• Critical Thinking: Students will reflect on the challenges and opportunities for preserving the region’s cultural and environmental assets, empowering them to think critically about their role in global sustainability.

Educational Objectives:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of Naxi culture, history, and heritage.

• Explore the principles of sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.

• Study traditional architecture, preservation efforts, and cultural conservation in Lijiang.

• Enhance cultural empathy and global awareness through cultural immersion and community engagement.

Itinerary Design

Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang

• Activities: Transfer from Kunming to Lijiang. Welcome briefing and orientation.

• Evening: Introduction to the tour, overview of Lijiang’s significance, and the Naxi culture.

Day 2: Yi Minority Village and Immersive Farming Experience

• Activities:

  • Travel to Xuehua Village (30 km from Lijiang).

  • Participate in local farming activities such as gathering firewood, digging Chinese herbal medicine, and house renovation.

  • Learn about the Yi minority’s agricultural practices and traditions.

  • Educational Focus: The value of traditional farming methods and their sustainable nature.

  • Evening: Reflection session on the day’s experiences.

Day 3: Continuation of Yi Minority Village Activities

• Activities: Continue with farming activities in Xuehua Village, focusing on hands-on learning in local agriculture and traditional construction methods.

• Educational Focus: Students will learn about the preservation of traditional crafts and farming methods in a modern world.

• Cultural Insights: Understanding the Yi people’s relationship with nature and community life.

Day 4: Cycling Tour of Lashihai Lake and Naxi Villages

• Activities:

  • Cycling tour around Lashihai Lake Nature Reserve.

  • Visit Naxi villages, observe biodiversity, and learn about the endangered black-necked cranes and the role of local communities in wildlife preservation.

  • Explore Baisha Old Town and Shuhe Old Town, with a special focus on traditional Naxi architecture.

• Educational Focus: Study the local ecology, sustainable tourism practices, and the integration of community efforts in biodiversity conservation.

• Cycling Distance: 40-45 km over 4-5 hours.

Day 5: Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking

• Activities:

  • Early morning trek in the upper part of Tiger Leaping Gorge to study alpine ecology and conservation efforts.

  • Hike from Bendiwan to Half-Way Guesthouse, and then to Tina’s Guesthouse.

  • Learn about the physical geography of the gorge and its historical significance.

• Educational Focus: Study the role of ecotourism in preserving the gorge and local landscapes.

• Evening: Return to Lijiang for a reflection session on the trekking experience.

Day 6: Shibaoshan Mountain and Naxi Embroidery Workshop

• Activities:

  • Morning visit to Shibaoshan Mountain and its historic Stone Bell Temple, which dates back over 1300 years.

  • Explore the Nanzhao Kingdom’s history through stone carvings and ancient temples.

  • Learn traditional Naxi embroidery at a local workshop in Baisha Old Town, guided by a master artisan.

  • Cultural Immersion: Participate in a bonfire party with Naxi minority people and join in their traditional dances.

• Educational Focus: Understanding the preservation of intangible cultural heritage such as music, dance, and crafts.

• Evening: Participate in a traditional Naxi dance at the Bonfire Party.

Day 7: Departure from Lijiang

• Activities:

  • Group reflection on learning outcomes and personal experiences from the tour.

  • Free time for shopping or additional exploration in Lijiang.

  • Departure from Lijiang.

• Educational Focus: Reflection on the importance of cultural preservation and sustainable tourism, and how these lessons can be applied in their own communities.

Logistics and Accommodation

• Accommodation: Comfortable, culturally appropriate accommodations in Lijiang, with options for homestays in local villages to provide deeper cultural immersion.

• Transportation: Coordinated transportation for all excursions, including buses and private vehicles, ensuring comfort and safety.

• Meals: Local cuisine experiences, ensuring dietary requirements are met while introducing students to traditional Naxi and Yi foods.

Safety and Supervision

• Guidance: Experienced local guides and tour coordinators will accompany students throughout the tour, ensuring their safety and facilitating the learning experience.

• Supervision: Teachers and chaperones from the Singapore International School will provide continuous supervision, ensuring that students’ needs are met.

• Emergency Protocols: Safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and first aid measures will be outlined to both students and staff before the tour.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect

• Pre-departure Orientation: Students will undergo a cultural orientation session to understand Lijiang’s cultural nuances, traditions, and expectations of behavior.

• Respectful Engagement: Emphasis on respectful interactions with local communities, ensuring that students approach cultural immersion with mindfulness and sensitivity.

• Educational Reflection: Post-tour reflections will encourage students to consider their role as global citizens and the importance of cultural respect in today’s interconnected world.

Evaluation and Follow-up

• Post-Tour Evaluation: Surveys and feedback sessions will be conducted to assess the success of the educational goals and gather students’ impressions.

• Presentation of Findings: Students will be encouraged to present their experiences and insights through presentations or written reports, fostering public speaking and reflection skills.

• Follow-Up Activities: Follow-up projects on sustainable tourism and cultural preservation can be incorporated into classroom lessons to reinforce learning outcomes.

By blending academic exploration, cultural immersion, and hands-on learning, this educational tour offers Singapore International School students a meaningful, transformative experience in Lijiang, enriching their global perspective and deepening their understanding of sustainability, culture, and conservation.