Discovering Taiwan, Building Connections: TMU Field Trip for International Students

The one-day trip began with a visit to Green World Ecological Farm in Hsinchu, where students walked through open green spaces and observed a wide range of animals and plant habitats. The setting offered a slower introduction to Taiwan’s natural environment before moving into cultural activities.

The group later travelled to Beipu, a town known for its Hakka heritage. There, students took part in a hands-on lei cha activity, preparing the traditional drink by grinding tea leaves, nuts and grains using a mortar and pestle. The process was simple but required steady coordination, as ingredients were ground together into a thick, earthy mixture. For many, it was their first direct encounter with Hakka food culture.

In the afternoon, students explored Beipu Old Street, where historic buildings, local shops and temple spaces remain closely connected to daily life. Along the street, they encountered traditional snacks such as persimmon treats and Hakka noodles, while visiting sites like Citian Temple, an important local religious centre reflecting the area’s cultural roots.

Rather than following a conventional tour format, the program emphasised participation and observation. Through simple, shared activities, students engaged with local culture in a direct and practical way, while also building connections with one another.

One participant shared, “It was my first time making Hakka Lei Cha, and I didn’t expect the process to be so hands-on. It helped me understand the culture in a much more real way, and I also got to know my classmates more naturally.”

The program received strong feedback, with all respondents giving the activity full marks in the post-event survey. Many students highlighted both the cultural experience and the opportunity to connect with peers as key takeaways.

For many participants, the trip marked a starting point—not only for exploring Taiwan, but also for becoming part of a new community.