In December 2024, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal announced the list of 21 young Nepali citizens for the Chinese Embassy Youth Pioneer Program (CNYP).
As the first project of CNYP, the Chinese Embassy informed us about its inaugural project, The China Visit, for the first ten CNYP members. December 1st, 2024, rolled around, and our group was ready for the next week of adventure.
We took Flight CZ6068 to Guangzhou, China, from Tribhuwan International Airport, Nepal. We began this journey through Guangzhou and Shenzhen with a promise of exploration and a deep dive into Chinese culture, technology, and history.
December 2, 2024
Engineering Wonders and Iconic Structures
Our journey began in the morning around Guangzhou, a city of flowers, with a visit to the Guangzhou Lijiao Sewage Treatment Plant.
It was an impressive display of sustainable engineering for water purification. Here, we had the chance to witness the intricate systems that support urban life, underscoring the importance of innovation in infrastructure.
Our next destination was the 604-meter-tall iconic Canton Tower, a prime example of modern architecture in Guangzhou. The Canton Tower is not only the world’s second-tallest television tower but also the tallest in Asia and China. It consists of 112 floors with mesmerizing panoramic views and architectural brilliance.
Technological Marvels
After lunch, we headed to GAC Aion New Energy Automobile Co. Ltd., where we explored cutting-edge technology and advancements in electric vehicles.
As a doctor, I was overwhelmed by the advancements in the medical sector made by this company. I wish we could deliver these modern medical technologies in Nepal, especially in rural and least-developed regions, where many people still lose their lives due to the lack of healthcare facilities and equipment.
This was followed by an inspiring visit to XAG, a smart agriculture technology company that pioneers modern agricultural systems and agricultural drone technology. These visits highlighted the region’s commitment to technological innovation.
A Serene Cruise
We concluded our first day with a cruise on the Pearl River, where the illuminated sky was reflected on the water’s surface, creating a spectacular view of the city at night. The gentle breeze of the Pearl River and the shimmering lights of Guangzhou city made a perfect end to our day.
December 3, 2024
Cultural Immersion
The next day started with an exploration of Chinese culture at the Guangdong Museum. The ancient artifacts and modern displays in the museum offered us a spectacular narration of the rich history and heritage of the Guangdong region. This added to our knowledge and appreciation for Guangdong’s cultural tapestry and development.
Wildlife and World-Class Entertainment
In the afternoon, we visited Chimelong Safari Park, where we encountered diverse wildlife that were protected in their natural habitat rather than in cages.
The day turned into an evening of astonishment at Chimelong International Circus, where artists from all over the world displayed their astonishing acrobatics, abilities, and artistry.
December 4, 2024
Journey to Shenzhen
On the morning of December 4, a 4-hour-long bus ride took us to Shenzhen, an innovative tech city in China. The journey itself was a visual treat, with lush landscapes and urban vistas unfolding along the route.
Pioneering Electric Mobility
In Shenzhen, our first visit was to the headquarters of BYD Company Limited, a global leader in electric vehicles and battery technology. The advancements we witnessed in this company reaffirmed the city’s status as a hub for technological breakthroughs. The designs of electric cars and batteries manufactured by BYD were admirable.
We learned that the Blade Batteries of BYD are made of LFP cells, which are less flammable than lithium-ion cells. They also performed the nail penetration test in front of us to show how safe their batteries are. Among all safety tests, the nail penetration test is considered the most rigorous test of battery safety.
December 5, 2024
Tech Giants
Our second day in Shenzhen started with a visit to the headquarters of Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., one of the leading companies in telecommunications and technology.
The insights we gained here were both inspiring and thought-provoking. Here, we explored in detail modern technologies and advancements in data storage, processing, and security.
Regional Collaboration
In the afternoon, we visited the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone. Here, we had a chance to explore the strategic partnerships shaping the future of finance and trade in Guangdong Province.
After this, a local channel in Nanshan, Shenzhen, contacted our local guide, arranged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China, to cover our journey and interview us. The interview went very well, and we headed for our pre-planned Cantonese dinner in a local restaurant.
December 6, 2024
Healthcare Innovation
On the third day in Shenzhen, we were welcomed at Mindray, a leading name in medical technology, showcasing the strides being made in healthcare solutions. It was enlightening to see the technology revolutionizing this vital sector.
This meticulously planned tour by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal for the members of CNYP was a tapestry of experiences that blended knowledge about China with fun. From the bustling streets and scenic beauty of Guangzhou to the technological wonders of Shenzhen, every moment was an individual chapter in the story of exploration and enrichment.
As a doctor, I was overwhelmed by the advancements in the medical sector made by this company. I wish we could deliver these modern medical technologies in Nepal, especially in rural and least-developed regions, where many people still lose their lives due to the lack of healthcare facilities and equipment.
Marvelling at Connectivity
Later that day, we enjoyed a scenic cruise along the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the longest sea crossing on Earth, where we got to witness stunning views of this engineering masterpiece. The 55-kilometer-long bridge stands as a testament to human ingenuity and modern technology.
December 7, 2024
Historical Insights and Modern Marvels
We started our last morning in Shenzhen with a visit to the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-Up Exhibition Hall, where we witnessed the transformative journey of the city over the decades.
After lunch, we visited the Ping An Finance Center, a 115-story, 599.1-meter supertall skyscraper in Shenzhen, completed in 2017.
It is the tallest building in Shenzhen, the second tallest building in China, and the fifth tallest building in the world. Here, we had an opportunity to experience breathtaking views and gain insights into modern architecture in Shenzhen.
Return to Guangzhou
In the afternoon, our journey started back to Guangzhou, with lingering memories of Shenzhen’s dynamic energy. This ride offered a chance to reflect on the profound experiences of the past days in Shenzhen and process all the information about the city we received during our tour through the Chinese Embassy Youth Pioneer Program.
December 8, 2024
Farewell
On the morning of December 8, we boarded the flight back to Kathmandu from Guangzhou with the hope of visiting China very soon. The week had been an exciting discovery, leaving us with unforgettable experiences and a better understanding of Guangdong’s cultural, architectural, technological, and historical assets.
This meticulously planned tour by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal for the members of CNYP was a tapestry of experiences that blended knowledge about China with fun. From the bustling streets and scenic beauty of Guangzhou to the technological wonders of Shenzhen, every moment was an individual chapter in the story of exploration and enrichment.
This was an ice-breaking visit for the young pioneers of Nepal like us, which enabled us to explore China realistically.
(Dr Sandesh Lamsal is a Nepali doctor known for his creative videos on different social media platforms and achievements in his social, professional and public life. He did MBBS from the Pavlov First State Medical University of St Petersburg, Russia in 2021 with a Russian government scholarship)
