Expats learn how to write with a pen brush. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Twelve expats from nine countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India, experienced traditional Chinese culture in Nantong on Oct 20 by taking the chance of the Double Ninth Festival, which falls on Oct 23 this year.

A traditional Chinese tea ceremony is performed at the activity. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

They learned how to write blessings in Chinese with a brush pen, recited ancient Chinese poems about the festival, made Chongyang cakes, studied traditional Chinese medicine and watched a tea ceremony.

Expats show off the Chongyang cakes they made. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

An expat from Morocco said that Chinese calligraphy is not only science, but also art. It is interesting to write with a brush pen and he hopes to learn more about calligraphy in the future, he added.

Expats try making a sachet. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Yongtairen, a popular pastry brand in Nantong, has a history of about 100 years. During the activity, Ji Jinhua, the third-generation inheritor, taught the expats how to make traditional Chongyang cakes.

Expats are attracted by the intangible cultural heritage items in Nantong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

"My dream is to introduce Nantong delicacies to foreigners," noted Ji. "I have always stuck to traditional making techniques in order to help more people taste the most authentic Nantong flavor."