Our time together in Beijing may have come to an end. But there is so much we can take from the experience, so much to reflect on, learn from, and so much to inspire us.
We want to thank everyone - including parents, providers, and support staff - for making this year’s Educational Visit to Beijing possible. The students showed great resilience, energy, and enthusiasm throughout the trip. This trip epitomized experiential learning, blending history, culture, and personal growth in a unique educational journey.
Mr. Adam Darell, MYP Coordinator
Experience Log
Day 1 (6 Feb) Our journey began with an early flight from Hong Kong to Beijing, where we were warmly welcomed by the Hutong team. We visited the stunning Summer Palace, learning its history while braving the freezing temperatures. After a day of exploration, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at Chabad, reflecting on our experiences before checking into our hotel.
Day 2 (7 Feb) After a restful night, students participated in tefillah and current affairs. We visited the Beijing Capital Museum to explore its rich history, followed by a lunch at the museum. We then ventured to Nanluoguxiang, delighting in vibrant shopping streets and local interactions. That evening, we enjoyed a sumptuous Shabbat dinner, where the students' respectful behavior earned them compliments from the Beijing Jewish community.
Day 3 (8 Feb) Saturday was dedicated to relaxation and connection. Students enjoyed a lie-in before participating in Shabbat activities that fostered friendships. After prayers at Chabad, we explored the art district of 798, admiring its installations and architecture. The day concluded with havdalah and reflections in our journals, followed by pizza and calls home.
Day 4 (9 Feb) Sunday was filled with cultural activities at the Temple of Heaven, including a kung fu lesson and interactions with local elders. After exploring the temple’s architecture, we practiced bargaining at the Pearl Market and concluded the day with an awe-inspiring acrobatics show, reflecting on our experiences over dinner at Chabad.
Day 5 (10 Feb) We awoke early to visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu, one of the modern wonders. Students either hiked up or took a cable car for stunning views. After a packed lunch on the wall, we enjoyed a scavenger hunt in the nearby bazaar, using language skills and keen eyes for bargains. The day ended with reflections at Chabad, highlighting the students’ teamwork and resilience.
Day 6 (11 Feb) Our day began with meaningful tefillah and a hearty breakfast. We focused on Beijing’s Central Axis, visiting the Planning Exhibition Hall for insights into the city’s history. After lunch, we explored Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, learning about its imperial significance. The day concluded with a celebratory dinner for Sylvia’s birthday and reflections on our experiences.
Day 7 (12 Feb) On our final day, we explored Beijing’s famous Hutongs, beginning with a rooftop briefing. Students engaged in tea tasting and traditional crafts, culminating in a mosaic representing their trip. The Hutong Amazing Race allowed students to research the neighborhood’s history. We ended the day with a feast and a viewing of Kung Fu Panda, reflecting on the hands-on learning experiences that enriched our journey.
Student Reflections
What experiences during our Beijing trip challenged you the most, and how did you handle the situations?
Noa: The cold weather was challenging to deal with - but after the first day we knew how to dress to keep warm. I also connected with new people I have barely spoken with before, like Grade 7s and some of my classmates who are new, like Silvia who just moved to Carmel and celebrated her birthday with us. I also got to know my close friends better!
Caelen: Walking on the Great Wall was a significant step outside my comfort zone. Climbing its many steps was challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and happiness I felt afterwards was well worth it.
Abigail: The moment when I was the least in my comfort zone was climbing the Great Wall of China. Though what I hadn’t thought about was the rush of energy when I would arrive. I had already gone to the Great Wall of China, but I was too young to remember much, so for me it was like seeing it for the first time and the view was breathtaking. I had so much energy that when we had the option to continue to more towers after lunch, I took it and did not regret anything.
Andy: The Great Wall hiking challenge left a deep impression on me because the trail was very steep and I thought I couldn’t climb over it at first, but I still finished it!
Romy: The most challenging experience that happened to me in Beijing was walking all the stairs to the great wall of China. The wall itself was breathtaking but to get there we needed to walk a ton of stairs. I overcame this obstacle by thinking positively and with the encouragement of my friends!
Which cultural activity helped you understand Chinese culture in a new way? What did you learn about yourself through this experience?
Abigail: We also did a tea tasting activity, it was the moment when I learned the most about Chinese culture. I have now understood their great respect for their guest, because of how much they pay attention to how much tea they pour. Both too much and too little is disrespectful. They also said that tea is a part of Chinese culture that makes everyone equal. This is the one lesson that I observed in Beijing that I want to bring back to my daily life.
Bela: When our group went to visit the Temple of Heaven’s park we saw old people training and exercising. This widened my thoughts on Chinese culture, showing me that it is not just dumplings and red clothes - but they really look after their health and fitness, even into old age.
Romy: One thing that surprised me the most was how elderly people would go to the park every morning to exercise, hang out with friends, dance and play jianzi! No matter their age, they showed amazing athleticism (at least much better than us!). It truly showed me that no matter your age you can still be active and hang out with friends.
How has this trip changed the way you think about exploring new places and experiencing different cultures?
Caelen: This trip profoundly changed my perspective on exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. I’ve grown more interested in understanding and appreciating diverse cultures, which is a valuable takeaway.
Rotem: This educational visit taught me the importance of being well-prepared. Being well-prepared helps you to face challenges and also contributes to making any experience more enjoyable.
Aliyah: The trip changed the way I think about exploring new places and experiencing different cultures by teaching me that guides are helpful just like our wonderful Hutong staff.
Nicholas: This trip to Beijing made me realise that you should never judge a book by its cover. At first, I wasn’t very keen to go to Beijing, especially with the school and all my new classmates whom I didn’t know too well, but it turned out to be better than I expected it to be. I made so many new friends on the trip and met new teachers to which I never really talked to before. In my opinion, that is what made it a rewarding experience.
Marshall: I think exploring new places and different cultures makes me much more curious to learn more about the world, and I like to learn more about other religions and beliefs through these experiences.
Zoe: During the trip, I pushed myself to talk to more people and ended up making many new friends. I want to thank the Hutong staff for organizing fun activities and the teachers for sorting most things out smoothly.
William: This trip has made me want to explore the cultures and day to day life of people in other countries more!