Following a week of intensive studies, the participants of the Molecular Breeding Academy (MBA) 2024 (Chinese Class) from Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences embarked on a two-day visitation and observation trip to Weifang, exploring the vegetable seed industry and agricultural tourism sector.

 

Their first destination was the Modern Agriculture High-tech Demonstration Zone in Luocheng Street, Shouguang City, where they visited the Haiersi (Shandong) Seedling Co., Ltd. This company specializes in vegetable seedlings and sales, among other services.

 

Under the guidance of Mr. Xinlei Huai, the sales director, the participants toured the greenhouse seedling nursery and attentively listened to his detailed introduction regarding seedling cultivation, production, and sales. Shouguang, located in Shandong Province, serves as a core region for vegetable seedling production in China. The vegetable seedlings produced there not only meet the demands of Shandong Province but are also exported nationwide. In addition, Weifang, Shandong, plays a significant role in providing training for the national vegetable seedling industry and also a large number of technical personnel in seedling production.

 

 

 

Subsequently, the MBA participants proceeded to visit the Shouguang Vegetable Town. Under the guidance of Mr. Xingguo Zhang, the assistant general manager of Shouguang Vegetable Seed Industry Group, the participants visited various sites, including the Shouguang International Vegetable Seed Industry Expo, the Shouguang 5G Smart Agriculture Demonstration Greenhouse (featuring tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants), the Molecular Breeding Laboratory, as well as the seed processing and packaging equipment.

 

 

After lunch, the participants visited the 25th China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science and Technology Expo. They focused on exploring Hall 7 (Vegetable Soilless Cultivation Exhibition), Hall 8 (Vegetable Culture and Art Exhibition), Hall 9 (Exhibition of Self-developed Vegetable Varieties), and Hall 10 (Cutting-edge Vegetable Cultivation Technologies Exhibition). At the Vegetable Culture and Art Exhibition, the participants were captivated by over 100 meticulously crafted landscapes that showcased the enchanting fusion of vegetables and culture, leaving a profound impression on them.

 

The China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science and Technology Expo, which opens every year on April 20th in conjunction with the Weifang International Kite Festival, lasts for a month. It attracts vegetable industry professionals from around the world, particularly those engaged in seed research, production, and sales, who come to visit and learn. The vegetable production techniques and art displayed in each exhibition hall are open to visitors and study participants throughout the year, providing an important platform for communication and learning to promote the development of the vegetable industry.

 

 

On Sunday, May 19th, the participants embarked on a hike up Xiashan, bathed in the morning sunlight. Standing atop the summit, they beheld a panoramic view of the institute's campus, overlooking the tranquil waters of Xiashan Lake. Although not towering in height (with an elevation of 172 meters), the mountain still imparted a sense of grandeur, allowing one to appreciate the vastness of the surrounding landscape and feel a profound sense of tranquility. The ecological and economic development zone where the institute is located derives its name from this majestic mountain.

 

At the peak, there stands a temple dedicated to the Jade Emperor, attracting worshipers throughout the year who come to pay their respects and seek blessings.

 

 

After the mountain hike, the participants walked 1.8 km to visit the FNN Agricultural Technology located in Wangjiazhuang Street. There, Mr. Xingbao Zhao, the General Manager of the company., a participant of MBA 2024, introduced the participants to the cultivation and production of blueberries. The participants were deeply impressed by the meticulous control and management of factors such as lighting, temperature, humidity, and nutrient conditions in the plantation. This interactive teaching style, where recent graduates of the seminar impart knowledge to others, enriches the learning experience of the MBA program and serves as a valuable reference for future seminar sessions. Following the introduction, the students engaged in a blueberry picking activity, allowing them to not only experience the joy of picking but also indulge in the delight of tasting the freshly harvested blueberries.

 

 

Subsequently, the participants visited the Tropical Rainforest Ecology Science Museum for observation and exploration. They were warmly received by the president, Mr. Wenxiang Huang, and his wife, Mrs. Xinwen Xu. Everyone was moved by Mr. Huang's heartfelt passion for his love for his homeland. They were also deeply captivated by his efforts and achievements in rural revitalization, as well as the immersive, diversified cultural and tourism service system that integrated ecological tourism, agricultural experiences, and scientific education.

 

This project, created by Mr. Huang, marked his sixth initiative in rural revitalization. Here, he nurtures young individuals on how to utilize local resources to invigorate rural cultural life, impart knowledge of natural sciences to children, give back to the local community, and assist elderly and underprivileged students in need.

 

 

Surrounding the fencing of the Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, the roses are in full bloom, creating a picturesque natural landscape within the campus. Upon returning to the institute, the MBA participants were filled with excitement and joy. Some chose to sit on the ground, while others stood casually, gathering near the rose-covered fences to capture memorable group photos. These snapshots symbolized the overwhelming sense of delight brought about by the weekend visit and learning experience, as well as their genuine joy and anticipation for the knowledge they had acquired.

 

 

 

Next to the monumental stone carving, the designated spot for capturing memories in the institute, the participants exuded laughter and joy. With arms waving and exuberant poses, they expressed their delight and "liked" the experience, commemorating the wonderful time spent at the institute. This visit not only broadened their horizons but also fostered communication and understanding among one another, leaving behind precious memories.

 

 

The day-and-a-half-long visit and exploration were filled with enriching schedules and bustling figures. Each day, the participants walked over fifteen thousand steps, bringing not only joy but also physical exercise alongside our demanding coursework. This event provided them with a wealth of understanding and practical experience regarding the seed industry and its related sectors. Moreover, it broadened their perspectives and deepened their knowledge on rural revitalization, agricultural development, and farmers' prosperity.