Invited by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), a delegation of Iraqi social media influencers, including several with millions of followers, embarked on a cultural odyssey in Foshan, Guangdong Province, starting on April 26. This trip was organized by the Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (GDPAFFC).

 

A delegate feeds and pets a pigeon at Nanfeng Ancient Kiln. (Photo: Qin Shaolong)

The trip aimed to bridge cultural divides and showcase China's rich heritage through immersive experiences, ranging from ancient ceramic craftsmanship to Cantonese culinary arts.

"I came to China for the first time, and it exceeded all my expectations," said Hussein Al-Amshawee, an Instagram influencer with 250,000 followers. "The moment I stepped into Nanfeng Ancient Kiln, I was mesmerized by the centuries-old kilns still firing clay pottery. It felt like walking through a living history book." The delegation's exploration of Foshan's famed ceramic arts highlighted centuries of craftsmanship, with artisans demonstrating traditional techniques that have shaped Lingnan culture.

 

Delegates try their hand at paper-cutting techniques. (Photo: Qin Shaolong)

Beyond workshops, the group delved into intangible cultural treasures. Mustafa Al-Safawi, a TikTok star with 1.9 million followers, marveled at Cantonese cuisine during a hands-on lesson in making ginger-infused milk curd. "The flavors here are unlike anything," he noted. "The food in Foshan is different from that in other cities, such as Beijing, Henan, and Zhangjiajie. I like every dish here."His video diary, showcasing the intricate dessert-making process, quickly garnered thousands of views.

The delegation's interactions extended beyond artifacts and recipes. Ali Al Jayar, a photographer and travel blogger, praised the warmth of local residents. "From the moment we arrived, people greeted us with genuine smiles," he noted. According to him, people in Iraq often see negative portrayals of China online, but this trip shattered those stereotypes.

 

Blogger documents their trip on camera in Foshan. (Photo: Qin Shaolong)

Cultural exchange flowed both ways. During a performance of Cantonese opera and lion dances at Foshan Ancestral Temple, influencer Ahmed Al-Hamdani expressed his awe, describing the energy of the performers, the colors, and the music as pure magic. He wants his audience to see this side of China. His raw, unscripted reactions to the spectacle resonated deeply with viewers back home.

Reporter | Guo Zedong

Video & Photo | Qin Shaolong

Editor | Yuan Zixiang, James, Shen He