“Looking at these artifacts from history made me think of two things: First, the amazing talent that civilizations of the past have, in making detailed works of art and tools. Secondly it made me think of what artifacts we, the people of modern civilization, will leave behind.”

　　The first few days in Xinging, Qinghai were spent visiting museums to learn about the history, and the culture of the people and the region. Looking at these artifacts from history made me think of two things: First, the amazing talent that civilizations of the past have, in making detailed works of art and tools. Secondly it made me think of what artifacts we, the people of modern civilization, will leave behind.

　　On our second day in Qinghai, we went to Qinghai Normal University. I was amazed at how gorgeous the campus was. I also took note of the two cafeterias that were provided for the students. One of them was called the Muslim Cafeteria, and served foods for the Muslim students, which I think is a great thing to have. 40% of the student population is ethnic minorities, many of which are Muslim. I was impressed by the diversity and inclusion that the campus showed in having this cafeteria.

　　They say you cannot go to Qinghai without stopping by Qinghai Lake. The weather was perfect, the sky was clear, and the lake was really something to behold. On the same day we went to Riyueshan and I got another breathtaking view of the Qinghai.

　　I will never forget the day we went to the temple and witnessed a group of women climbing the temple steps, stopping on each floor, to pray. It was quite a trip and I was left awestruck by their devotion.

　　After days of traveling around Xining, we took a 13-hour bus ride to Yushu. Yushu is a much smaller city and has its own style. The city is somewhere near 98% Tibetan ethnic group, and it shows. Many of the people walk around in traditional garb, and would greet me in Tibetan.

　　By the end of the trip, I had fallen in love with Qinghai. The people and the culture, the many spiritual sites, just everything left me speechless. It is truly difficult to find the words to explain how this trip has opened up my eyes to not only China, but to the world. The beauty of local people’s customs and cultures are everywhere, and to go out and learn from them can help us learn more about ourselves.