International students from Shandong First Medical University were welcomed at a group wedding ceremony in Daiyue district, Shandong's Tai'an, on Oct 18.
Ten couples, dressed in elegant traditional Chinese attire, participated in a series of ancient rituals to solemnize their unions. The event offered the students a captivating glimpse into Chinese matrimonial traditions.
"This is my first time seeing a Chinese wedding; it's truly beautiful and fascinating," a Pakistani student Ruonan stated, "The red costumes, symbolizing good luck for the bride and groom, are especially striking."
Fellow Pakistani student Rongfei expressed a deepened understanding, adding, "I hope to experience more of this culture in the future."
Beyond the ceremony, the event featured an intangible cultural heritage zone where students participated in activities like paper-cutting and dyeing. A separate agricultural products exhibition also attracted their interest, allowing them to sample local specialties.
"This place is wonderful. I love it and want to come again," shared another student named Xioahu.
The experience provided a memorable journey into Chinese romantic traditions and cultural heritage, turning the wedding into a profound cultural exchange for the visiting students.

A group of international students from Shandong First Medical University are welcomed at a group wedding ceremony in Daiyue district, Shandong's Tai'an, on Oct 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]