TJU Crabapple Blossom Festival Draws Over 100,000 Visitors

On April 5, Tianjin University (TJU) held its 2025 Crabapple Blossom Festival in celebration of its 130th anniversary. With vibrant blossoms adorning its campuses, the event attracted over 100,000 visitors and offered a rich blend of academic heritage, technological innovation, and youthful energy, further reinforcing TJU’s role as a cultural landmark in Tianjin.

At Peiyang Square and Shutian Square, historical exhibitions highlighted TJU’s legacy, showcasing rare artifacts such as China’s first university diploma and the unclaimed graduation certificate of revolutionary figure Zhang Tailei. Many visitors expressed deep emotional resonance, with one local commenting, “These exhibits not only document history but also embody TJU’s 130-year commitment to Seeking Truth from Facts.”

Commemorating the 10th anniversary of its reconstruction, TJU’s Law School presented archival materials tracing the development of modern legal education at Peiyang University, offering rare insights into China’s legal modernization. The School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology paid tribute to academician Shen Jiaxiang, honoring his lifelong contributions to pharmaceutical innovation. Meanwhile, the University Culture and History Research Institute marked its own tenth anniversary by releasing four significant academic publications, enriching the celebration with scholarly achievements.

Interactive activities invited visitors to express their affection and pride for TJU. During the “Greetings for Peiyang” event, messages poured in from people of all ages—from an 89-year-old alumnus wishing the university global prestige to high school students expressing hopes of joining TJU this fall. Families across three generations captured joyful moments together, adding intimacy and warmth to the celebrations.

A showcase of technological innovation added a futuristic dimension to the festival. Demonstrations of autonomous vehicles, synchronized robots, and flexible electronic skin for health monitoring captivated audiences. National laboratories presented advanced technologies such as brain-controlled robots and quantum displays, drawing crowds of science enthusiasts. The “Technology and Art” section highlighted creative innovation through AI-powered digital experiences, drone soccer matches, and intelligent piano recitals.

Traditional culture flourished alongside innovation. Activities like poetry contests, Chinese painting workshops, and drum performances brought classical arts to life. A large-scale puzzle featuring iconic campus buildings encouraged public participation and symbolized TJU’s enduring academic legacy.

Special events invited notable guests, including world badminton champion Chen Jin, who shared the skills and personal experiences with attendees. Other engaging programs - such as the “Dance of Art and Algorithm” painting workshop and a themed poetry salon - encouraged thoughtful discussions on individual growth and national aspirations. Retired faculty members also took part in joyful performances, showcasing the vibrant spirit of TJU’s senior community.

“The Crabapple Blossom Festival is a dialogue between university heritage and contemporary innovation,” said Zhang Hao, Deputy Director of the Publicity Department at TJU. “In celebration of our 130th anniversary, we held 86 diverse activities across four thematic sections, aiming not only to reflect our legacy but to contribute meaningfully to Tianjin’s cultural identity.”

By: Qin Mian