On May 27th, an atmosphere of vibrant cross-cultural exchange filled the Dobe Tiantan International Cultural and Creative Industry Park near Beijing's Temple of Heaven. Translia's Beijing office warmly welcomed a study group from the College of Business at East Carolina University (USA) for a US-China cultural exchange event themed "Language Technology Empowering Cultural Heritage Preservation and Communication." This event not only showcased cutting-edge practices in the language service industry but also orchestrated a beautiful symphony of cultural resonance through diverse experiences at the Hongqiao Market.
🌐 The Digital Pulse of a Cultural Park: Envisioning the Future of Cultural Dissemination
The day began with the ECU study group touring the dynamic Dobe Tiantan International Cultural and Creative Industry Park. The diverse startups seamlessly blending culture with technology, alongside "Beijing Street"—an alley of unique handicraft studios—left a lasting impression on the students and faculty, illustrating the digital future of cultural communication.
Following the tour, a language service exchange meeting was held at Translia. CEO Mr. Shawn Wang first provided the guests with a comprehensive overview of translation and localization industry trends, along with an introduction to Translia's company profile and core services. Subsequently, CRO Mr. Sheng presented two vivid client case studies, demonstrating how professional localization services have successfully helped brands from various sectors expand into international markets and enhance their business value. CTO Mr. David Chen then focused on introducing the cutting-edge technologies in the localization industry, such as AI, translation management systems, and cloud collaboration platforms, discussing their potential applications in improving translation efficiency, ensuring quality, and empowering cultural communication. During the meeting, the Translia team also touched upon the company's vision for leveraging language technology to serve cultural heritage, including innovative concepts like building an "ICH Terminology Cloud." This initiative aims to systematically organize and promote core terminologies and knowledge systems of Chinese ICH, thereby contributing to the international dissemination of China's rich traditional culture. These presentations and insights were highly praised and well-received by the ECU faculty.
🎋 A Multifaceted Exploration of Hongqiao Market: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
In the afternoon, the group embarked on an in-depth exploration of the historic Hongqiao Market. This visit was more than just an ICH craft experience; it was a comprehensive look at cultural preservation and innovative business models. The tour began at the market's ICH Incubation Park, offering insights into how traditional crafts are innovated and developed in the modern era. Next, they visited a Live Streaming Base, witnessing how digital technology is forging new marketing channels for ICH products. At specialty shops like Fenghua & Wenli Jewelry, students and faculty admired exquisite pieces blending traditional and contemporary designs. The building's serene Garden and the Guantan Terrace, offering a view of the distant Temple of Heaven, provided moments of tranquility and aesthetic appreciation.
Following these visits, a business discussion focusing on Hongqiao Market's commercial strategies and international promotion took place, exploring how this historic market can revitalize itself in today's globalized context.
Subsequently, the much-anticipated hands-on ICH workshop began. Students and faculty tried their hand at the splendid art of cloisonné enameling, the delicate skill of snuff bottle inner painting, the intricate beauty of Su embroidery, and the unique craftsmanship of Chinese fan making. These living examples of intangible cultural heritage allowed the American guests to deeply connect with the warmth and charm of Chinese civilization through direct participation.
During the visit, Translia also discussed how its multilingual marketing content localization services can assist Chinese traditional crafts and cultural products in reaching global markets by tailoring content precisely to the cultural characteristics and consumer habits of different overseas audiences. Prof. Shirley, leading the ECU group, praised this approach, recognizing such in-depth cultural translation as key for Chinese ICH products to achieve a modern presentation and connect with global consumers.
🌍 Envisioning Cultural Interaction: Building Bridges for Mutual Understanding
The afternoon's panel discussion, "Commercialization and International Communication of Cultural Industries," sparked lively and insightful conversations. Topics ranged from how Chinese ICH crafts can integrate modern design and tell global stories, to localization strategies for American cultural products entering the Chinese market. Several exquisite Beijing craft items, now engraved with English verses, will travel across the Pacific with the study group, serving as tangible testaments to this cross-cultural dialogue.
Concluding the event, Translia CEO Shawn Wang remarked, "True localization is not merely language conversion; it's about seeking understanding and value resonance between different cultures. We hope to contribute to this resonance through language and technology."
This event was a vivid demonstration of Translia's commitment to fostering East-West cultural dialogue and mutual learning through the bridge of language technology. Looking ahead, Translia hopes to collaborate with more cultural institutions, businesses, and enthusiasts both domestically and internationally, utilizing professional language services and technological solutions to ensure that the unique charm of every culture finds its poetic expression and shines brightly in the global context.