British teacher is amazed by the Chinese calligraphy

At a stall in Shuyuanmen Alley, Xi'an City, 24-year-old British folk Kinuthia is practicing writing Chinese characters.

Kinuthia began learning Chinese three years ago, and he was fascinated by the "mystery" and "complexity" of Chinese characters. Two years ago, he came to Xi'an with a passion for Chinese culture and worked as a foreign teacher at the Chang'an Dublin International College of Transportation at Chang'an University.

Kinuthia felt that the Chinese characters gathered looked like artistic paintings. From abstract "paintings" to specific "strokes", he gradually adapted to the new language structure and began to realize the meanings and writing systems behind it, which made him love Chinese characters and calligraphy even more.

Kinuthia introduced how he got to know water-dipping calligraphy: "I once saw Mr. Sun holding a large brush and practicing calligraphy on the ground at Minleyuan Plaza, and I was hooked right away. I couldn't recognize what he was writing, but I found it pleasing to look at, and I wanted to try it too." Thus, Kinuthia humbly sought advice from Mr. Sun Xiangjun, and they became "calligraphy buddies".

"I knew about Chinese calligraphy before, but at a superficial level. Mr. Sun taught me a lot, including the styles and forms of calligraphy and its inherent charm. I am learning this slowly." Kinuthia says that the practice of calligraphy makes him feel more peaceful. "Through calligraphy, I also encountered many like-minded friends with whom I can share and exchange my experiences."

For Kinuthia, traveling has become a part of his life. "I studied history in the UK, and I think this might have influenced me to explore the stories of each country. I've traveled across Europe, and whenever I have time, I pack my backpack and travel around."

When Kinuthia arrived in Xi'an, he was amazed by the city integrating the past and now and felt determined to stay here. Kinuthia now lives close to the Xi'an Bell Tower, "The location is very convenient. I can start a trip right away with a bike." 

For Kinuthia, everything in China is mysterious and worth exploring. "I've introduced China to all my friends, and this holiday, I'm going to Beijing with my British friends to see the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and more. I think there's nothing more joyful than traveling in the country I love with my friends."