The People’s Republic of China celebrated its 75th anniversary this year. Over the past seven and a half decades, the Chinese people have witnessed the growth and strength of their motherland. At Yenching Academy, it is a tradition to organize a flag-raising ceremony at Tian’anmen Square during the National Day holiday, and this year was no exception. Our Scholars immersed themselves in the grand ceremony, experiencing the moment of solemnity with excitement. Afterward, they toured the Temple of Heaven, captivated by the richness of Chinese culture and the charm of Beijing.

Flag-Raising Ceremony at Tian’anmen Square

On the morning of October 7, more than 50 Yenching Scholars from around the world attended the flag-raising ceremony at Tian’anmen Square. The grandeur and solemnity of the ceremony filled the air with excitement. The square was packed with people, all eagerly awaiting the event. The festive atmosphere was a striking contrast to the cool morning air. As the PLA Military Band played the bugle call, the ceremony began. The national flag guards marched to the flagpole and raised the national flag to the sound of the national anthem. Chinese students and visitors spontaneously sang along, their voices echoing over the square in a powerful display of national pride.

A couple of our Scholars even rode bikes from Peking University to Tian’anmen Square, creating a unique and memorable experience of life in Beijing.

Tour of the Temple of Heaven

After the ceremony, the Scholars enjoyed a tour of the Temple of Heaven. Built in the early 15th century during the reign of the Yongle Emperor (r. 1403–1424) of the Ming dynasty, the Temple of Heaven was the site of imperial sacrifices to Heaven and prayers for good harvests. The entire architectural complex is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese design. The students walked along the central axis of the complex, which runs from north to south, passing the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Echo Wall, and the Circular Mound Altar.

The Scholars were awe-struck by the magnificent paintings and sculptures inside the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which symbolized the ancient Chinese desire for prosperity and a good life. They also experimented with the Echo Wall, marveling at the incredible acoustics. Standing atop the Circular Mound Altar, the students felt a deep connection to nature, as if communicating with Heaven and Earth, in the same way that ancient Chinese worshipped Nature with reverence.

This National Day trip allowed both Chinese and international students to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, which has remained unchanged for millennia, while also exploring the dynamic city of Beijing—a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Words from YCA Scholars

Wang Xiru (China, 2024 cohort): “I was excited to see the flag-raising ceremony at Tian’anmen Square. We sang the national anthem together with others from all over the country. Later, we enjoyed a walk in the Temple of Heaven, in the shades of ancient cypresses and pines and surrounded by marble railings. The trees and buildings there are witnesses to the historical developments.

I think my fellow students from outside China must have had a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese culture in this trip. It was my best moment of pride for my country. I’m grateful for our laoshi. Thank you for them to organize such a wonderful trip. The students from different cultures grew closer to each other in the event.”

Isaac Gray (US, 2023 cohort): “It’s unparallel experience to ride a bike from Peking University to Tian’anmen Square. We saw a Beijing that is different from what we’ve seen. It was a long trip, of course; but it was remarkable.”