National Dong Hwa University (NDHU) recently welcomed a delegation from the University of Puget Sound, comprising seven students and one faculty member, for a four-day short-term cultural immersion program. The initiative aimed to foster cross-cultural understanding through hands-on experiences that showcased eastern Taiwan’s unique blend of indigenous heritage, local traditions, and natural ecology.

The program kicked off with a field visit to Fenglin Township in Hualien, where participants engaged in a Hakka cultural experience hosted by “Fragrant Grass and Ancient Trees.” Guests took part in traditional DIY fabric dyeing and lei cha (ground tea) making, gaining insight into the everyday wisdom and aesthetic values of the Hakka community through interactive, craft-based activities.

The delegation then toured the NDHU campus, where they were impressed by the university’s rich natural environment and academic atmosphere. Through interactions with NDHU faculty and students, the visitors gained a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s higher education system.

The cultural exchange continued with a visit to the Makutaay (Maogong) Indigenous Community in Fengbin Township, where participants experienced Amis cultural practices first-hand. Activities included wild vegetable identification and harvesting, preparing a traditional wild vegetable hotpot, collecting driftwood, and brewing millet wine. The immersive experiences were met with enthusiastic praise, as the visitors expressed admiration for the Amis people's sustainable lifestyle and traditional knowledge.

This short-term program not only promoted cultural exchange but also demonstrated NDHU’s ongoing commitment to international education and community engagement. Looking ahead, NDHU will continue to strengthen its partnerships with overseas institutions and expand opportunities for global learning.