Yunnan Provincial People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries

At the Yaojia International School in the old city of Lijiang, there is a Canadian foreign teacher who is deeply loved by the students - Dai Yang. His connection with Lijiang began with a chance trip, but over the years, it has evolved into a deep and enduring friendship that transcends national boundaries, becoming a vivid illustration of the diverse cultures blending in Lijiang.

A few years ago, Dai Yang and his wife first set foot on the land of Lijiang when they visited a friend. The ancient city's cobblestone streets, the Naxi dwellings beneath the snow-capped mountains, and the melodious folk songs created vivid pictures that were deeply imprinted in their hearts. "At that moment, I knew this place would become an important part of our lives," Dai Yang recalled with a sparkle in his eyes, reminiscing about the initial excitement of discovering Lijiang.

Dai Yang made handicrafts with students. (Reported by He Baoque and Yang Guohui of Lijiang Integrated Media)

This affection prompts the couple to make an important decision: to make Lijiang their "second hometown".""I hope to become a 'new Lijiang person as soon as possible."’After many twists and turns, with the help of friends, Dai Yang and his wife were able to realize their dream of years' planning. Since then, they have spent most of their time in Lijiang every year, immersing themselves in the local customs and culture. In Dai Yang's view, life in Lijiang has a wonderful resonance with his hometown, Canada. The lakes and mountains here echo the vast nature of Canada, and the diverse and inclusive humanistic atmosphere is similar to the cultural characteristics of Canada. "In Lijiang, I always find the warmth and sense of belonging of home," Dai Yang said to describe his special emotional connection to Lijiang.

Dai Yang and his family are hiking together. (Reported by He Baoqiu and Yang Guohui of Lijiang Integrated Media)

As a foreign teacher at Yaojia International School, Dai Yang has built a bridge for cultural exchange in the classroom. He not only brings advanced Canadian educational concepts and interactive teaching methods, but also integrates his experiences and observations in Lijiang into the classroom, telling students about the charm of multiculturalism with his personal experiences. "The world is very big, and each place has its unique value." This is what he often tells his students, and it is also his original intention to practice cultural dissemination.

Dai Yang led the students to carry out the activities. (Reporters from Lijiang Integration Media He Baotao, Yang Guohui)

Dai Yang's story is like an invisible bond that connects Lijiang with Canada's friendship. "Lijiang is the most wonderful encounter in my life, where I found the true meaning of happiness." Whenever talking about Lijiang, Dai Yang's words are always filled with deep affection.

Just like the countless people who have taken root in Lijiang out of love, Dai Yang interprets his affection for this land in his own way. Lijiang, with its unique charm, continues to attract people from all over the world to explore, and every person who comes to Lijiang writes their own story here, making the humanistic picture of this ancient city more and more colorful.