Learning Beyond the Classroom: Discovering China 

Across China’s mountains, villages, and historic towns, WAB students are exploring for themselves how learning extends far beyond the classroom. Each China Studies trip invites them to experience culture, history, and connection in ways that only real-world exploration can offer. 

Before the October break, High School Students set out on eight incredible trips across six provinces. Each experience was thoughtfully designed to deepen cultural understanding, foster personal growth, and build connections. 

“It’s a new part of China I’ve never explored before,” one student shared. “I’m really excited to meet new people, build connections, and have an awesome experience.” 

These trips challenge students to step outside their comfort zones, from the bustle of ancient towns to the quiet strength of mountain landscapes and find joy in experiences that can’t be replicated inside a classroom. 

Grade 9: Foundations in Culture & Community 
Students explored the iconic water towns of Tongli, Zhouzhuang, and Xitang in Zhejiang and Jiangsu Provinces. Through poetry, modern history, and homestays with residents, they deepened their understanding of community life and cultural heritage. 

Grade 10: Deep Dives into Philosophy, Nature, and History 

• Qufu & Mount Tai (Shandong Province): A journey into the heart of Confucian philosophy. 

• Qinling-Zhongnanshan (Shaanxi Province): Hiking adventures that highlight sustainability and China’s diverse geography. 

• Pingyao (Shanxi Province): A photojournalism trip capturing the essence of traditional culture and history. 

Grade 11: Leadership and Global Citizenship 

• Inner Mongolia: Exploring sustainable development among Chinese minority cultures in desert and grassland ecosystems. 

• Tianzhen (Shanxi Province): A community service trip supporting a local village school, putting leadership and empathy into action. 

From camping in cold winds to hiking scenic trails and bonding around campfires, students reflected on how these moments of challenge and discovery brought them closer together. 

“It helps us learn a lot and appreciate everything we have,” said one student. “It’s good to see your friends, to be out in nature, and to get to know people in a totally different way.” 

Through China Studies students connect knowledge with experience, growing as globally minded, compassionate learners. They return with life-long memories and a richer understanding of understanding of China and of themselves. 

Watch the video above to see highlights from the Qinling-Zhongnanshan trip and hear the students’ reflections on what made this journey so special.