On Saturday, 22 November 2024, Panda Education's carefully curated"Jade Buddha Temple Cultural experience Half-Day Tour" for our current students unfolded perfectly. A group of over ten students set aside
their busy studies and the city's pace, gathering at the Jiangning Road Metro Station. With a sense of quiet anticipation, they stepped together into the serene oasis nestled within the urban landscape—the Jade Buddha Temple.
Led by our senior Chinese teacher, Mr. Shen Peigao, who provided seamlesssupport in Chinese, English, and Japanese, the participants began this brief yet profound journey. Upon passing through the temple gates, the city's hustle seemed to fade away. Before them stood the majestic Grand Hall and the radiant Jade Buddha Halls. Mr. Shen not only explained the temple's history and architectural beauty but also shared the wisdom and philosophy within Buddhist culture in an accessible way. The students listened attentively, gazing upon
the solemn and compassionate jade buddhas. Amidst the wafting incense and distant bell chimes, expressions of peace and focus settled on many faces, as if they were genuinely touching the profound and tranquil spiritual core of Chinese culture.
Following the tour, the group experienced the temple's classic vegetariancuisine. A bowl of simple, elegant noodles was not only a treat for the palate but also a practical lesson in the Buddhist dining philosophy of simplicity and gratitude. Over the meal, participants shared their impressions in Chinese, their laughter and insights making the lunch particularly warm.
The conclusion of the activity held a lovely surprise. Panda Education hadthoughtfully prepared a unique gift for each participant—a pure copper pendant engraved with the EsotericSix-Syllable Mantra. As this token, symbolizing peace and auspiciousness, was received, joy and appreciation blossomed among everyone. This was far more than a complimentary outing; it was a gesture of deep and considerate care from Panda Education.
Though brief, this half-day tour was rich in meaning. It transcended theconventional language classroom, becoming a direct cultural immersion for the heart and mind. What the students took away was not just newfound knowledge and a lucky charm, but a cherished memory of tranquility, connection, and simple
pleasure. Panda Education remains committed to going beyond "expert teaching," striving to be a warm guide for our students as they explore both the Chinese language and the depths of Chinese civilization.
All students' events at Panda Education are free of charged.