Study Tour Abroad

'Nomadic Culture in a Globalized Era' Mongolia Study Tour

30 May 2023 - 6 Jun 2023

The Department of International Education at the Faculty of Education and Human Development is proud to have organised the "'Nomadic Culture in a Globalized Era' Mongolia Study Tour" for our students. This study tour aimed to provide an immersive experience to our students in understanding the Mongolian culture by exploring its nomadic lifestyle, cultural beliefs and practices, customs and traditions, historical heritages, and educational and socio-economic significance. The objective of this tour was not only to gain an understanding of Mongolian culture but also to recognise the importance of cultural sustainability. Through the study tour, our students explored how Mongolians preserve their nomadic culture and nature's ecological beauty towards the country's modernisation in the globalised area of Mongolia. The study tour was successfully held between 30 May and 6 June and was led by Dr Mic Cheng and Ms Emily Mang.

Students' Sharing
Ho Chiu Lam Edith
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Chinese Language)

This spiritual landmark for practices of Shamanism is drenched in milk and vodka and covered in scarves with different colors.

The memorial symbolises the Mongolia-Soviet Union friendship and honors the fallen soldiers of World War II. Inside, murals portray the countries' ties and wartime events.

This board on the hallway is a showcase of their teaching using of shoelaces, buttons, and other items to help the students practice how to take care themselves in daily life.

The chessboard featured braille markings on all four sides, making it possible for those with visual impairments to enjoy the game of chess.

Children would write their wishes or expressions of joy for Children's Day on banners and on the ground.

The horseback riding activity allowed me to experience the Mongolian people's history as a warrior nation

These are Mongolia traditional homemade milk products including yogurt, milk candy and butter cookies (Boortsog).

I learned how to relax and let go of my thoughts. In addition, we saw animal bones on the grassland, witnessing firsthand the natural cycle of life and death in nature.

After travelling to Mongolia, I was not only amazed by the country's abundant natural resources but also deeply touched by the experiences I had. One of the most memorable aspects of my trip was visiting several local schools and seeing how the children there welcomed us with such warmth and enthusiasm. Despite their shyness and timidity, they still managed to wave to us with a smile. I noticed a difference between these children and those in Hong Kong: their smiles were simple and pure, without the stress and pressure of city life. Although they expressed a desire for development and progress like those in Hong Kong, I found their innocence and sincerity to be precious and valuable.
Furthermore, I was touched by the natural environment in Mongolia. The animals there seemed to have a spiritual quality, unafraid of humans, likely due to the Mongolian people’s love and respect. Despite the fact that they hunt and eat sheep, they still hold a deep respect for the lives they take. The sheeps are free to roam in the vast grasslands until they are needed. The Mongolian people deeply respect nature and value the coexistence between humans and nature. This is something that our overdeveloped cities could learn from.
In conclusion, my trip to Mongolia gave me a new perspective and appreciation for the simple things in life. It showed me the importance of respecting the environment and the enthusiasm towards human beings.

Lee Kin Fung
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Primary) - Mathematics

Dschingis Khan Statue

Mongolia is a country with a deep spiritual tradition. The most famous temple in the country is probably the Gandan Monastery, which is located in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. This temple is home to several hundred monks and is one of the few Buddhist monasteries to have survived the 20th century.
In addition to visiting temples, the trip to Mongolia include visits to schools, including both local and international schools. One notable school to visit would be a visually impaired school, where students are taught to read Braille and develop other skills to help them succeed in life. This experience could be eye-opening and provide a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities in Mongolia.
Staying in a traditional Mongolian yurt, also known as a ger, is a unique and authentic way to experience the country's nomadic culture. These portable dwellings are made of felt and wood and can be assembled and disassembled quickly, making them ideal for a nomadic lifestyle. I really love the people there. They are pure and true. They communicate with you from the heart, which I cannot find in Hong Kong.
Overall, a trip to Mongolia could be a deeply enriching and transformative experience. The country's rich culture, history, and spiritual traditions offer a unique perspective on the world, and visiting its temples, schools, and nomadic communities can provide a deeper understanding of Mongolian people and way of life.

Li Chin Fung
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Physical Education)

A child was sitting in a tank on the Children's Day.

This is an airag bag made by the horse stomach skin.

This is a praying spoon.

During my travels in Mongolia, what left the most profound impression on me was the government's focus on children. June 1st is International Children's Day, and the Mongolian government designates it as a public holiday, encouraging the entire nation to celebrate the occasion and raise awareness of the importance of protecting children's rights. I had the opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere firsthand on that day. I went to Central Square in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, where a joyful atmosphere filled the air. Every child had a smile on their face and was full of energy, with laughter echoing all around. I could feel that every child was enjoying a carefree life and living in the moment. It was the first time I had seen children being the center of attention on Children's Day. This experience made me realize the importance that Mongolia places on children, seeing them as the future of the country and a valuable asset. Being a part of this day's celebration made me reflect on the situation of children in Hong Kong.

Liang Xiao Bin Benny
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Geography)

Mongolian National Children's Day celebration in Central Square includes workshops and carnivals for children, with some roads designated as pedestrain areas for children to experience driving. The event is filled with happiness and harmony as families gather to celebrate.

Visiting Terelj National Park was unforgettable, with its natural landscape, traditional Mongolian gers, and slow, peaceful lifestyle. The animals are fed on natural grass, creating a high-quality ecosystem.

Experiencing the nomad’s lifestyle in daily commuting and hobbies

Under globalization, Mongolia has experienced a transfer of construction, technology, and culture. Modern construction features can now be seen in Mongolian buildings, and some Mongolians are gradually replacing traditional ger with modern facilities, though some will still keep the ger in their homes to preserve their local culture. Mongolians no longer use herds for transport, preferring to use cars instead. Furthermore, Mongolia is no longer just a nomadic culture, but a mix of Korean, Russian, and Chinese cultures. Food and daily necessities are imported from different countries, and leisure activities like karaoke are a result of globalization. Mongolia is still developing and modernizing, but there is a debate about whether the country will lose its nomadic cultural features through the rapid process of urbanization in the future.

Suen Ka Chun Asher
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Chinese History)

Locals who live in Ger District were getting water from the water station.

A group photo with the students at a local school in Mongolia.

My two-week study tour of Mongolia was a truly eye-opening and life-changing experience. I had the opportunity to explore both urban (Ulaanbaatar) and rural areas (Gorkhi Terelj National Park) and I was struck by the warmth and friendliness of the people. Mongolians have a genuine smile on their face and are nice to everyone. One interesting fact is that Mongolia is one of the least crime-ridden countries in Asia, making me feel safe to explore the city. Ulaanbaatar is the heart of the country, with its wild traffic, good sights, delicious food, and friendly people, making it worth taking the time to visit. As a nature lover, Mongolia is truly magical to me. I had a full Mongolian experience during the study tour, from living in traditional Mongolian yurts to trying horse riding for the first time, from holding an eagle to climbing to the top of Turtle Rock. I enjoyed staying in the National Park and had a golden opportunity to embrace nature. One thing I learned from the Mongolians is their deep respect and love for nature. Mongolian families have a deep respect for the environment and I was amazed to see no garbage in the National Park. This experience inspired me to take action to protect the environment. In conclusion, Mongolia is a special place where everyone can reconnect with nature. Mongolians are some of the most hospitable people in the world, and I have met many nice people there. Thank you for the wonderful memories. I love this place and the people here so much!

Yip Sea Hong
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Physical Education)

An elementary school in the Ger District

Nomad's daily life.

The local community of the Ger District

What struck me the most during my trip to Mongolia was the deep respect that Mongolians have for nature. They thank cows after getting milk from them, apologize to horses after riding them, and celebrate with the sky for what it has given them. Only true nature people can be so respectful to nature, and they are truly connected to it. As city people, it's difficult for us to understand, but we should try. We are all creatures living on and sharing this planet, and we should all respect it. The picture shows a morning walk and meditation with our tour guide Tuul. Although I don't know how to meditate, it calmed me down and made me feel the nature, listening to the music of nature. It was the first time I really felt connected to the earth. So, city people, just try to remember that we are all living on this beautiful planet.
Mongolia is a nation full of heart. From what our local guide told us to the locals we met and talked to, Mongolians are true to their hearts. Our tour guide Tuul once said, 'city is good at educating your mind, but not your heart.' In the city life, our minds are trained well, but do we forget that everything should come from the heart?

Acknowledgement

Source: Dr Mic Cheng, Ms Emily Mang; Department of International Education (IE@EdUHK); for more information, please click Read More

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