Promoting the legacy of Bian Que and sharing the story of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with the world, a cultural event titled “Hometown of Bian Que: Harmony and Coexistence” was held on November 15. Jointly organized by the Jinan Municipal Health Commission and the Jinan Municipal Government Information Office, with support from the Lixia District Health Bureau, Shandong Xinzonglu Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital (Baotu Spring Campus), and Jinan International Communication Center, the event aimed to spread awareness of TCM knowledge and heritage. Teachers and 21 students from the International Education College of Shandong Normal University participated in the event, which showcased the rich TCM cultural resources of Jinan, targeting international audiences to highlight the unique appeal and global relevance of TCM.

　　Jinan, known as the "Hometown of Bian Que," boasts a deep and vibrant TCM heritage. At the event, professional medical staff from Shandong Xinzonglu TCM Hospital introduced international students to a variety of engaging TCM experiences. Physicians delivered accessible lectures on the origins, evolution, and modern role of TCM. Demonstrations of acupuncture, tuina (massage therapy), and other distinctive treatments, combined with vivid case studies and storytelling, helped students grasp fundamental concepts such as yin-yang theory, the five elements, and the diagnostic methods of observation, listening, questioning, and pulse-taking. Additionally, the physicians explained the historical significance of Jinan as Bian Que's hometown, deepening participants' appreciation for the city's rich TCM traditions.

　　To offer a hands-on understanding of TCM, the event included interactive experiences. Meng Yan, head of the hospital’s cultural promotion, showcased common Chinese medicinal herbs and guided students and teachers on a tour of the herbal pharmacy. She explained the medicinal properties and uses of various herbs, offering a tangible insight into their applications. Dr. Qu Xiaoqing, a resident TCM practitioner, demonstrated techniques such as acupuncture, tuina, and ear acupressure, inviting attendees to try these methods firsthand and experience the remarkable efficacy of TCM. Physicians also provided pulse diagnosis services, helping participants understand their health conditions and learn practical self-care techniques rooted in TCM principles.

　　To enhance self-care awareness, the event included a session on the Baduanjin, an easy-to-learn traditional Chinese exercise routine. Guided by healthcare professionals, participants practiced movements designed to harmonize qi and blood, improve energy flow, and strengthen the body. A seasonal herbal tea tasting further enriched the experience, as attendees learned about the unique flavors and health benefits of TCM-inspired teas. Students and teachers expressed their delight, noting that the event deepened their understanding of TCM and its practical integration into everyday life.

　　Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of Chinese culture. This event not only offered international students a close-up view of TCM but also sparked their passion for and interest in its profound wisdom. Some students shared their intention to disseminate the knowledge and experiences they gained, helping more people understand and appreciate the uniqueness of TCM.

　　The “Hometown of Bian Que: Harmony and Coexistence” TCM cultural promotion is part of Jinan’s broader initiative to foster international cultural exchange. It serves as a vital platform for advancing the legacy and development of the TCM brand and opening new avenues for global engagement. As the "Hometown of Bian Que," Jinan continues to innovate in the research, preservation, and dissemination of TCM. By doing so, it ensures that this ancient medical wisdom contributes to the health and well-being of people worldwide. In the future, the culture of Bian Que and the stories of TCM are poised to shine even more brilliantly on the global stage.