Students make zongzi. [Photo/WeChat account: jxfabu]

The Oxford Chinese Students and Scholars Association in Oxford, England hosted a cultural exchange activity for the upcoming Dragon Boat Festival on May 18, where Jiaxing's iconic zongzi, the sticky rice dumplings, took center stage.

Bao Yifan, a Jiaxing native and event organizer, shared the festival's origins and customs with international students. "When I was young, my family would wrap zongzi themselves. Through constant exposure and observation, I also learned how to do it. Being able to share the zongzi culture of my hometown with so many classmates from different countries makes me feel meaningful," she said.

Attendees followed a tutorial by Tu Caihong, inheritor of Wufangzhai's zongzi-making technique, a national intangible cultural heritage item, while local Chinese residents offered hands-on guidance.

A UK student who tried zongzi for the first time, said it's incredible to craft traditional food himself — like unlocking a new world.

Flown in for the event, the Jiaxing zongzi also drew praise. "The glutinous texture and savory fillings are perfectly balanced," said Tom from Brighton, England.

The festival expanded beyond zongzi, featuring calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and ancient crafts like movable-type printing. Many international students left inspired, with some vowing to visit Jiaxing for authentic zongzi.