Recently, Rees Tyrrell, a British teacher from Taiyuan University of Technology, was featured in a special multi-platform report by China Global Television Network (CGTN) of China Media Group, highlighting his cultural exploration journey in Shanxi. Tyrrell was invited to take part in the recording of CGTN’s special series Reel Views, Real Journeys. Through an international perspective, he immersed himself in the unique fusion of Chinese cinema and the cultural tourism of Shanxi. The coverage, which included text, images, short videos, and TV news segments, was broadcast globally and has attracted widespread attention.
During the journey, Tyrrell boarded a movie-themed high-speed train inspired by the hit Chinese 2D animated film Nobody, traveling from Taiyuan to Qikou Ancient Town in Lyuliang City, one of the film’s key real-life settings. On board, he explored interactive displays of intangible cultural heritage, including paper-cutting and sand painting featuring the film’s four main characters. This allowed him to witness firsthand the innovative fusion of traditional Chinese art and modern cinema. At Qikou Ancient Town, Tyrrell strolled through the historic streets, immersing himself in the profound heritage of the Yellow River culture and the rich history of Shanxi merchants, while also visiting iconic scenes from the film.
In an exclusive interview with a CGTN reporter, Tyrrell shared his thoughts on the experience. He expressed deep appreciation for the film’s traditional Chinese ink-wash art style and discussed his understanding of the cultural core and deeper themes embedded in the story. He noted that the film’s portrayal of little monsters striving to create their own lives and resist societal rules resonates strongly with young people across cultural boundaries. Speaking of his trip to Qikou Ancient Town, he said he was amazed by the well-preserved original ancient buildings and the town’s historical depth, and that he truly felt the vitality and charm of Chinese history and culture.
This report not only showcases the proactive efforts of international teachers and students from TYUT to understand and deeply engage with Chinese culture but also, through the global reach of international mainstream media, tells the story of China and Shanxi from an international perspective. It effectively promotes Shanxi’s rich historical and cultural tourism resources as well as fine traditional Chinese culture, building a friendly bridge for cross-cultural exchange between China and the world.
Report link:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-04-15/VHJhbnNjcmlwdDkwMTYy/index.html
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