Photo: VCG

"Full marks for this cultural export!" This is how some netizens have praised a group of Chinese travelers leading foreign tourists move by move in practicing Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese fitness exercise, in the departure lounge of Cairo Airport in Egypt. A related video clip recently sparked discussion online.

The video circulating online shows a group of middle-aged and senior Chinese female travelers performing Baduanjin in the airport lounge, led by an experienced practitioner, domestic media outlet Jimu News reported.

The clip also shows many foreign passengers watching with curiosity, with some joining in to imitate and learn the movements.

A passenger surnamed Chen, who appeared in the video, said that they practiced Baduanjin at the airport because their flight had been delayed for over five hours, and everyone wanted to alleviate fatigue, Jimu News reported.

"At first, only three people were practicing, and I joined in. Later, more and more people joined in, including many foreigners," Chen recalled. She added that their lead practitioner could speak English, which enabled participating foreigners to pick up the moves quite easily. 

"It seemed they really enjoyed it as they applauded warmly when we finished," Chen said.

Chen also mentioned that music is usually played during their regular Baduanjin sessions, but they practiced in complete silence throughout the session at the airport to avoid disturbing other passengers.

The video has attracted attention from many netizens. Some praised it as a highly effective form of Chinese cultural outreach, commenting that "health preservation transcends national boundaries." Others joked, "these foreigners can now brag about having learned mysterious Chinese kung fu."

Global Times