The next day, we explored the Bodu River Cultural Center, a space dedicated to learning and creativity. The building is modern, home to both a cultural center and a library. What impressed me most was not only its size, but its spirit of practical innovation, simple yet thoughtful ideas for daily use, like a table that could also serve as a canvas. China's libraries never fail to amaze me; they are peaceful sanctuaries that nurture curiosity and imagination. As someone who believes in the power of books, I was deeply touched to see how reading and culture are held in such high regard.
Kyaw Jaw Sine Marma tries rock climbing at the Bodu River Sports Center. [Photo provided to wndonline.cn]
Close by stood the Bodu River Sports Center, a place full of life and energy. Inside, there are facilities catering to a wide range of sports, including table tennis, rock climbing, and many more. We didn't hesitate to jump in, trying a variety of activities with childlike excitement. The sports center represents modern China's idea of balance, promoting both physical health and cultural engagement. It is not just a sports center; it is a lively community space where people of all ages come together to move, laugh, and connect.
Another fascinating stop was the SF Express Logistics Center, a showcase of innovation in modern logistics operations. I had never been to a logistics facility before, so it was captivating to watch the advanced methods of sorting packages and AI systems managing everything smoothly. Autonomous vehicles were moving swiftly across the floor, each performing its task with remarkable precision and coordination. It felt like watching a perfectly timed dance of technology and efficiency. I stood there amazed, realizing how innovation and human effort together keep the modern world running so smoothly.
Our final stop was the Hongshan National Archeological Site Museum, built over an ancient noble's tomb from the Warring States Period (475-221 BC). The museum preserves the traces of a long-gone civilization. Walking through the exhibits, I could almost feel history breathing quietly around me. The artifacts seemed to whisper stories of loyalty, artistry, and daily life in the Wu State. It was a reminder that every place carries memories that continue to shape the present.
Looking back, my impression of Xinwu is one of harmony between tradition and technology, body and mind, history and innovation. Every corner tells a story of resilience and reinvention. Xinwu doesn't just talk about progress; it lives it. If I were to describe Xinwu, I would say it is a place where the fragrance of osmanthus mingles with the hum of machines, where the music of the erhu flows alongside the rhythm of modern life. It teaches you how to look backward and forward at once, to honor the past while embracing the future.
The author, from Bangladesh, is currently an international student at the Suzhou Campus of Renmin University.
If you would like to share your Wuxi stories, then send us your writings at wuxiexpatstories@outlook.com.
Copyright © China Daily. All rights reserved.