Located in northern Xinjiang, Karamay is known as “the Black City” because of its important oil production. However, the city also boasts a unique cultural experience that can be found in the English language village of Busan – a must-see destination for any traveler to northern China.
History
The Busan English Village was opened in 2014 and was designed to create an immersive English environment for Chinese students. The Korean style architecture and decorations were inspired by the South Korean city of Busan. Inside the village, there are many small alleys with different themes, such as Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley and a British style pub. All the shops, signs, and menus are written in English, immersing visitors in a total English-speaking environment.
The Village Now
The Busan English Village has developed into a popular tourist attraction, not just for Chinese students but also for foreign travelers looking to experience something different in northern China. Visitors can participate in various activities such as traditional Chinese calligraphy, making dumplings, and dancing. They can also engage in advanced English classes where they can practice speaking with native speakers hailing from all the English-speaking countries around the world. The village also provides a platform for international cultural exchanges, offering the opportunity for visitors to learn about different cultures and customs from around the world.
Visiting the Village
To get to Busan English Village, visitors to Karamay should take a taxi or public bus from the city center. The village is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm every day and offers different events and performances throughout the year. Admission fee for an adult is 60 yuan (approximately 9 USD), while children under 1.2 meters tall and seniors over 70 years old can enter for free. Guided tours are available in Chinese and English.
In conclusion, Busan English Village is a cultural gem in Karamay that offers a unique English-learning experience and the chance for international cultural exchanges. Consider putting it on your travel list when visiting northern China.