Xuan paper, known as "the paper that lasts for a thousand years and the ink that changes in ten thousand ways," is among the finest in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting papers. On July 12, 2024, the "Trace of Paper Charm" summer social practice team from the School of Computer and Information at Hefei University of Technology traveled to Dingjiaqiao Town, Jing County, Xuanzhou City, Anhui Province, to immerse themselves in Xuan paper culture and learn about the long history of its manufacturing process.

Dingjiaqiao Town is one of the birthplaces of Xuan paper, where the ancient craft of making this paper has been preserved to this day, allowing the paper-making industry to develop steadily. The practice team visited Mingxing Xuan Paper Factory, a privately-owned paper-making enterprise in Jing County. Senior paper-making master Mu Yongqiang led the team on a tour of the factory's production line.

Master Mu provided a detailed introduction to the faculty and students from Hefei University of Technology about the production processes and technical details in the raw material preparationpulping, papermaking, drying, and cutting workshops. During the visit, workers cooperated seamlessly and attentively in various working environments. The factory is equipped with highly automated machinery while preserving traditional craft workshops for making Xuan paper. The working environment within the factory was clean, and it had comprehensive wastewater treatment facilities. The practice team personally experienced the ancient method of making Xuan paper and its cutting techniques, gaining knowledge about the paper-making process and an appreciation for the hard work and dedication involved in creating Xuan paper.

During the visit, the factory manager provided a detailed introduction to the history of paper-making at the factory and its sales performance. In recent years, as excellent traditional Chinese culture increasingly integrates into social life and daily activities, it subtly cultivates national temperament. It strengthens cultural confidence, enhancing the influence of Chinese culture day by day. The overall sales situation for Xuan Paper has been stable with positive trends. Seizing new opportunities and facing new challenges, the company has diversified its product types and expanded its sales channels. Using platforms like Douyin (TikTok) and Taobao for live-streaming e-commerce, the ancient craft that has been passed down for thousands of years is infused with new vitality and energy in the modern era.

During this practice activity, the team members and faculty deeply experienced the exquisite craftsmanship of Xuan paper making and felt the profoundness of Xuan paper culture. After the conclusion of the activity, the team members will bring back what they saw, heard, and felt to their campus. They are developing a mini-program application for Xuan paper culture, aiming to rejuvenate this ancient craft in the new era with fresh brilliance.