Live from China-Trip 2024
ACATCM’s Overseas Study Trip to China
We are excited to announce that ACATCM is embarking on its first overseas study trip to China since the COVID-19 pandemic, from May 23 to June 6, 2024. We will visit the vibrant cities of Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Tianjin, exploring Chinese medicine universities, discussing partnerships, touring hospitals, and gaining insights into pharmaceutical manufacturing. Additionally, we will immerse ourselves in Chinese culture, exploring historical landmarks and local traditions.
Follow our journey on this blog, “Live from China Trip 2024,” for live updates, photos, and stories. Join us virtually on this exciting journey of learning and cultural exploration.
May 23: Setting Sail – The Journey Begins
Today, students from the Alberta College of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACATCM) embark on an exciting journey to China. Our adventure began in Calgary, with flights to Vancouver, a transit through South Korea, and finally landing in the vibrant city of Shanghai.
For many, this is their first trip to China, and the excitement is palpable. We are eager to explore the rich culture and history of this incredible country. As we visit various cities and universities, we aim to strengthen educational and research ties and sign important agreements that align with our institution’s vision and strategic planning.
Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from our travels. #ACATCMChinaTrip #DepartureDay
May 24-27: Shanghai – a vibrant fusion of East and West.
The First Exploration into the Magic City
Our delegation landed in Shanghai, a city that seamlessly combines tradition and modernity, offering endless surprises throughout the weekend.
On the Bund, we admired Shanghai’s historic and modern skyline, while Yuyuan Garden immersed us in the ancient Jiangnan garden world. We also visited Disneyland in Shanghai, reliving childhood dreams with beloved cartoon characters.
We savored Shanghai’s famous snacks like Xiao Long Bao and Pan-fried Bao, each bite bursting with rich local flavors, complemented by renowned Chinese tea. Our group was delighted by the city’s cuisine and warm atmosphere.
Shanghai’s unique charm and vibrant culture left a lasting impression on all of us, evident in the big smiles in our group photos. This memorable visit has deepened our appreciation for the city’s allure.
Next, we head to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine to begin a long-term collaboration on education, research, and the advancement of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.
#ACATCM #Shanghai #StreetFood #ShanghaiDisney #YuyuanGarden #ShanghaiBund
Official Visit to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Following a joyful weekend, the ACATCM delegation made an official visit to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM). We were warmly welcomed by Dr. Han Chouping, the International Cooperation Director, and had the privilege of touring their prestigious campus and affiliated hospital. The highlight of our visit was establishing a long-term strategic partnership with SHUTCM, focusing on education, student and faculty exchange, research, and degree training. This collaboration aims to foster academic excellence and mutual growth in the field of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Our delegation also had the pleasure of experiencing a day in the life of SHUTCM students. Engaging in meaningful exchanges, our students shared insights into their respective fields of study and enjoyed lunch together at the SHUTCM student cafeteria. These interactions provided a welcoming atmosphere and a deeper understanding of campus life at SHUTCM.
In addition to these exchanges, we visited the SHUTCM museum and hospital. The museum offered a fascinating look into the history and evolution of TCM, while the hospital visit provided insights into how acupuncture and TCM are integrated into the Chinese healthcare system. We observed the state-of-the-art TCM pharmacy in operation, learning about the meticulous processes involved in the preparation and dispensation of traditional Chinese medicines. These experiences offered invaluable practical knowledge and reinforced the importance of integrating traditional practices with modern educational frameworks.
This visit to SHUTCM not only strengthened our academic ties but also enriched our students and faculty with experiences that will undoubtedly enhance their educational journey. We are excited about the future collaborations and exchanges that will emerge from this partnership.
Stay tuned for more updates as our delegation continues to explore and engage with the finest institutions of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Shanghai #StudyTrip #TravelVlog #AcupunctureYYC #TCMYYC #AcupunctureCollege #TCMCollege #CulturalJourney #StudentExchange #SHUTCM
May 28-31: Guangzhou, the heart of southern China’s trade and commerce.
Exploring Guangzhou: A Day of History, Medicine, and Nightlife
Our first day in Guangzhou was filled with enriching experiences and promising partnerships. We started our day with a visit to the city museum, where we were graciously hosted by city officials. The museum offered a deep dive into Guangzhou’s rich history, from its ancient roots to its modern development, providing us with a greater appreciation for this vibrant metropolis.
Next, we visited the renowned Guangzhou Acupuncture and TCM Hospital. Here, we engaged in fruitful discussions about a strategic partnership focusing on clinical specialties such as rehabilitation acupuncture and TCM dietary therapy. We also toured the hospital’s impressive herbal garden, learning about the cultivation and use of various medicinal plants integral to TCM practices. The hospital’s innovative approaches and commitment to integrating traditional practices with modern techniques were truly inspiring.
As the sun set, we took a tour of Guangzhou’s bustling nightlife. The city came alive with vibrant lights and lively streets, offering us a taste of its dynamic culture. From the scenic Pearl River night cruise to exploring local markets and enjoying delicious street food, the night in Guangzhou was an unforgettable experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey through China, exploring new partnerships and cultural treasures.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Guangzhou #StudyTrip #TravelVlog #AcupunctureYYC #TCMYYC #AcupunctureCollege #TCMCollege #CulturalJourney #CityMuseum #NightTour #StrategicPartnership
A Historic Milestone and Deepening Our TCM Collaboration
Our second day in Guangzhou was marked by significant achievements and enlightening experiences.
In the morning, we reached a historic milestone as ACATCM and Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine (GZUCM) signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement establishes a full partnership on education collaboration, exchange programs, and research and scholarly activities. The signing ceremony, hosted by GZUCM’s Vice President Dr. Guo Hong and Director of International Partnership Dr. Jia Jianwei, represents a pivotal moment for both institutions. It aligns perfectly with our vision and long-term strategic planning, setting the stage for a future of mutual growth and academic excellence.
After the signing ceremony, we toured the beautiful and innovative GZUCM museum. The museum showcased the rich history and advancements in Traditional Chinese Medicine, offering us a deeper appreciation for the field and the university’s contributions.
In the afternoon, we visited the Guangdong Provincial TCM Hospital, the largest acupuncture and TCM hospital in China. Our students toured the impressive facility and attended a lecture by renowned TCM doctors. We witnessed integrated and modernized TCM practices firsthand, gaining valuable insights into how traditional methods are effectively combined with modern healthcare techniques.
We truly appreciated the warm hospitality of GZUCM and the insightful experiences provided by the Guangdong Provincial TCM Hospital. This day not only strengthened our academic ties but also provided our students and faculty with meaningful experiences in modern TCM.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey through China, exploring new partnerships and cultural treasures.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Guangzhou #StudyTrip #TravelVlog #AcupunctureYYC #TCMYYC #AcupunctureCollege #TCMCollege #CulturalJourney #GZUCM #GuangdongTCMHospital #MemorandumOfUnderstanding #EducationalCollaboration #StudentExchange #ResearchPartnership
June 1-2: Discovering Beijing: A Journey Through Time and Wonder
Our delegation from the Alberta College of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACATCM) embarked on an unforgettable tour of Beijing, immersing ourselves in the city’s rich history and modern marvels.
Our adventure began at the Forbidden City, where we explored the vast courtyards and majestic halls that once housed Chinese emperors. The intricate architecture and historical artifacts offered a deep dive into China’s imperial past, leaving us in awe of its cultural heritage.
Next, we indulged in the excitement of Universal Studios Beijing. The theme park’s immersive attractions provided a delightful contrast to the historical sites, offering a blend of entertainment and leisure that everyone enjoyed. It was a fantastic opportunity for our delegation to bond over thrilling rides and shared experiences.
The highlight of our tour was a visit to the Great Wall of China. Standing on this iconic structure, we were captivated by the panoramic views and the sheer magnitude of this ancient engineering feat. The experience was both humbling and inspiring, reminding us of the enduring spirit and ingenuity of the Chinese people.
Our tour of Beijing’s landmarks was a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Each site we visited enriched our understanding of China’s past and present, making this a truly memorable part of our China trip.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore and share more highlights from our journey.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Beijing #ForbiddenCity #GreatWall #UniversalStudiosBeijing #CulturalJourney #HistoricLandmarks #TravelBlog
June 3: Historic Visit to the National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion
On June 3rd, our delegation traveled from Beijing to Tianjin on the high-speed bullet train, experiencing a fast, smooth, and punctual journey. The reason for this visit was significant: we were heading to the National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion (国家中医针灸临床医学研究中心) to announce a groundbreaking partnership.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the center’s leadership. The highlight of our visit was the formal announcement of the partnership between the National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion and ACATCM. This collaboration marks the beginning of an international research initiative that will elevate ACATCM to the global stage of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) research.
The cornerstone of this partnership is the launch of our first joint research project focused on stroke patients. This project represents a historic move for ACATCM, expanding our research capabilities and contributing to the global understanding and treatment of stroke through TCM. Our collaboration aims to integrate traditional acupuncture and moxibustion techniques with modern medical research, fostering innovation and improving patient outcomes.
The significance of this partnership cannot be overstated. It underscores ACATCM’s commitment to advancing TCM through rigorous research and international collaboration. By working together with the National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, we are poised to make substantial contributions to the field and enhance our academic and research reputation worldwide.
We are excited about the future of this partnership and the opportunities it will bring for our students, faculty, and the broader TCM community. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore and develop this promising collaboration.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Tianjin #ResearchCollaboration #TCMResearch #Acupuncture #Moxibustion #StrokeResearch #GlobalPartnership #TraditionalChineseMedicine #InnovativeHealthcare #BulletTrainJourney
June 4: Strengthening Bonds: ACATCM’s Visit to the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences
On June 4th, our delegation visited the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (中国中医科学院) in Beijing, a longstanding friend of ACATCM. This visit was more than a reunion; it was an opportunity to further solidify our collaboration on education, research, and technology development in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
The China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences has been a pivotal partner for ACATCM, and our relationship dates back to before the COVID-19 pandemic. Reconnecting with our colleagues at the academy was both heartwarming and productive. During our visit, we engaged in in-depth discussions to renew and expand our joint efforts in advancing TCM.
One of the main focuses of our meeting was the consolidation of our educational collaboration. We discussed new strategies for student and faculty exchange programs, aiming to provide richer educational experiences and broaden the academic horizons of both institutions. These exchanges will enable our students and faculty to gain valuable insights and expertise, further enhancing the quality of education we provide.
In the realm of research, we explored various collaborative projects that leverage the strengths of both ACATCM and the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. Our discussions highlighted the potential for joint research initiatives that could lead to significant advancements in TCM practices and applications. We are particularly excited about the prospect of co-developing innovative research methodologies and sharing our findings with the global TCM community.
Additionally, our visit underscored the importance of technology development in modernizing TCM. We discussed ways to integrate cutting-edge technologies with traditional practices, aiming to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of TCM treatments. This includes the development of new tools and techniques that can be used in both clinical and research settings.
The visit to the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences reaffirmed our mutual commitment to advancing the field of TCM. By strengthening our collaboration, we are poised to achieve greater heights in education, research, and technology development. This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of promoting excellence and innovation in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to foster meaningful collaborations and make strides in the world of TCM.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Beijing #ChinaAcademyOfChineseMedicalSciences #TCMResearch #EducationalCollaboration #TechnologyDevelopment #TraditionalChineseMedicine #GlobalPartnership #InnovationInHealthcare
June 5: Reflecting on an Eye-Opening Journey
On June 5, our delegation flew back to Shanghai for a day of retreat and reflection. This day was a chance to unwind, finish any unfinished business, and enjoy some leisure time before our departure. Many of us took the opportunity to explore the city a bit more, do some last-minute shopping, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Shanghai.
In the evening, we gathered for a group dinner, a perfect moment to revisit the highlights of our incredible journey. Over delicious food, we shared stories and experiences from our visits to various cities and institutions. The students expressed how eye-opening the trip had been, with many of them stating they plan to return to China in the future to further their studies and explore even more.
Our trip included significant milestones, such as the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding with Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, establishing a research partnership with the National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, and renewing our collaboration with the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences. These partnerships are poised to advance TCM education, research, and practice on a global scale.
We also had the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks and experience the rich cultural heritage of China. From the bustling streets of Beijing and the historic Great Wall to the serene gardens and lively markets of Shanghai, each city offered unique insights and unforgettable experiences.
As we prepared to return to Calgary, Canada, the sentiment among the group was unanimous: this trip had been transformative. It not only expanded our academic and cultural horizons but also strengthened the bonds between our institutions and provided invaluable experiences that will shape our future endeavors in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Stay tuned for more updates and reflections from our journey as we continue to build bridges and forge new paths in the world of TCM.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #Shanghai #Beijing #Guangzhou #StudyTrip #TravelVlog #AcupunctureYYC #TCMYYC #AcupunctureCollege #TCMCollege #CulturalJourney #StudentExchange #GlobalPartnership #ReflectingOnTheJourney
June 6: Returning Home: A Smooth Journey and Exciting Future Ahead
On June 6, our delegation boarded the flight from Shanghai to Calgary, with a stopover in Seoul and Vancouver. The journey was seamless, thanks to our superb travel agency, who ensured a comfortable and enjoyable trip. We were even treated to the first-class lounge at Incheon International Airport, making our layover a relaxing experience.
As we landed safely in Calgary, we carried with us the memories of an unforgettable journey through China. The trip was filled with significant milestones, enriching cultural experiences, and groundbreaking collaborations in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
On our return, we were thrilled to hear the fantastic news that our 2024 graduating class had achieved a 100% pass rate on their licensing exams. Congratulations to all the graduates! This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students and faculty.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming Convocation 2024 and the RBC Huatuo Invitational Golf Tournament. These events mark new beginnings and opportunities to continue our journey of learning, promoting acupuncture, and advancing Chinese medicine.
Our trip has deepened our commitment to TCM and strengthened the bonds between ACATCM and our international partners. We are eager to build on this foundation, fostering innovation and excellence in TCM education, research, and practice.
Thank you for following our journey. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore, learn, and contribute to the world of acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
#ACATCM #ChinaTrip #HomewardBound #CalgaryBound #TCMResearch #Acupuncture #Graduation2024 #RBCHuatuoInvitational #TCMCommunity #JourneyContinues
