Ready to hike: IE students kick off the Great Wall adventure together

On March 23, over 40 students, together with Prof. Linning Cai, set off on an unforgettable hike to the Lupiguan(鹿皮关) Great Wall. Organized to foster connection between international students and Chinese MEM students, the event blended outdoor adventure, physical challenge, and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.

The adventure began with a morning bus ride from Tsinghua University, where excitement filled the air. Students chatted, shared snacks and drinks, and began getting to know one another in a relaxed atmosphere. Upon arriving at the trailhead, team leaders—experienced hikers—guided a group warm-up and conducted gear checks to ensure everyone was equipped with trekking poles and had access to a navigation app for safety along the rugged trail.

From warm-ups to wild trails and cherry blossom moments

With the sun shining and spirits high, the group set off along winding dirt paths and gentle hills. Conversations quickly grew deeper, with students exchanging personal stories and asking questions about each other’s cultures. Some international students took the chance to practice their Chinese, creating a natural space for language learning and connection. “I never thought I’d be practicing my Chinese on the Great Wall!” laughed one participant.

Smiles, snapshots, and mid-hike joy

After a steady climb, the group reached the ancient stone structure of the Lupiguan Great Wall. Unlike most touristy sections, this wild and largely unrestored area offered an authentic and breathtaking experience. The view from the top included rolling hills, cherry blossoms in bloom, and the Bai River winding through the valley. On one of the beacon towers, the group enjoyed a well-earned lunch and took commemorative photos.

Teamwork, triumph, and unforgettable views

As the sun softened in the afternoon, the descent began. Tired legs didn’t stop the laughter—students encouraged one another along the way, reflecting on the challenges they had overcome. A sense of shared accomplishment was clear in every smile. On the return bus ride, exhaustion quickly gave way to celebration. A karaoke session soon broke out, turning the bus into a rolling stage where both Chinese and international students sang together, bridging cultures through music.

More than just a hike, the Lupiguan Great Wall journey became a moment of connection — across cultures, languages, and landscapes. For many, it was a powerful reminder of how nature can bring people together, offering space not only for challenge and adventure, but also for laughter, learning, and shared reflection. In the quiet strength of the mountains and the warmth of new friendships, the day became a lasting memory.

Group photo

Student voices

The hike was a refreshing escape into nature, filling me with a sense of peace as we navigated lush trails and breathed in the crisp mountain air. Sharing laughs and encouraging one another during challenging climbs deepened my bond with classmates and made me grateful for my teacher's guidance. Returning home, I felt a renewed appreciation for teamwork and the beauty of exploring the outdoors together.

——Mamun Md Al, 2024 IMEM Program

It's an amazing hike with the IE classmates. Although the route was a little tough and full of challenges, we have enjoyed the fantastic natural attraction of historical great wall, river, mountain and spring flowers. Moreover, group activity and communication with each other during the hike enhanced the friendship between international students. I appreciate the department for organizing this and look forward to the next one.

——Haitao Chen, 2021 MEM Program

Writer: Milan Schaffrath

Photographers: Hiking group

Reviewers: Liang Ma, Lefei Li