The Chinese Language Council International, the Confucius Institutes' headquarters, has donated 10 Chinese Culture Experience Centers to Group T. The interactive kiosks can be found at Vesalius Campus and give you a view on everyday China and Chinese history, language, and culture. An overview:
Kung Fu and Calligraphy
Calligraphy is the art of writing. Kung Fu refers to a series of movements similar to boxing, but carried out with weapons. A video demonstrates both.
Questions & Answers About Chinese Ancient Thinkers
The philosophies of Confucius, Laozi, and Zhuangzi lie at the heart of traditional Chinese culture. Their sayings illustrate their vision on studying, working, love, and friendship.
Chinese Characters Tripod
In ancient times, a cauldron on 3 feet was used to make sacrifices. A similar tripod portrays the history of Chinese writing, from 3500 to today.
Opera and Scenery
Beijing opera combines singing, dialogue, acting, and acrobatics. The kiosk makes a picture of your face, adds the traditional opera costume of your choosing, turning you into a real opera star! You can take a print home with you.
Chinese Scenery
China is a vast country with very diverse scenery. Select a province on the interactive map and see images of its natural splendor.
Science and Technology
Pictures and moving images show China's contributions to science. Did you know that paper, gunpowder, the compass, and printing all originated in China?
Paper-cutting of Chinese Horoscope Animals
The Chinese art of paper-cutting is more than 1800 years old. Enter your date of birth, and the kiosk will generate a paper version of your sign from the Chinese zodiac.
Chinese Folk Music
The erhu, guzheng, xiao (the vertical bamboo flute), Chinese bamboo flute, and the lusheng are typical Chinese musical instruments. Select an instrument to view a description and listen to a melody.
Changing Cities
Chinese cities have changed dramatically over the course of the 20th century. Images from Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Lhasa, and Guangzhou at different moments in time, illustrate this development.
Chinese Food
Chinese food is known for its longstanding tradition and variety. You won't be able to sample any food, but you can learn about the 8 Chinese cuisines: Shandong, Sichuan, Canton, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hunan, and Anhui.
- Check www.groupt.be for more on the Confucius Institute at Group T.
