Key Takeaways and Implications: Food as a Cultural Construct: The Interplay Between Food and Identity: Food as a Medium of Cultural Exchange: The Social Function of Food: Adaptation and Preservation of Food Traditions: Reference: Montanari, M. (2006) Food is Culture. New York: Columbia University Press.

While reflecting on the two interventions, I read two books related to food culture, identity and memory to help me better understand my research topic. One of them is Tasting Food, Tasting Freedom: Excursions into Eating, Culture, and the Past by Sidney W. Mintz. Key Themes and Concepts Relevant to Research on Youth Migration and…

Key Takeaways: During the first day’s urban exploration, it became clear that familiar elements in Shanghai’s urban environment played a significant role in helping participants feel more at home. The ability to find places that reminded them of their hometowns—whether through architecture, atmosphere, or cultural echoes—allowed participants to see Shanghai not as a foreign city…

Participants: Participant 1: From Chengdu Participant 2: From Changsha Participant 3: From Xi’an Participant 4: From Suzhou Date: 17th August Duration: 4-5 hours Location:  Communal Kitchen in Shanghai Part one – Market Visit and Ingredient Gathering The day began with a visit to Wuzhong Food Market, a bustling market in Shanghai known for its diverse range of ingredients. The market…

Participants: Participant 1: From Chengdu Participant 2: From Changsha Participant 3: From Xi’an Participant 4: From Suzhou Date: 10th August Duration: 4-5 hours Location:  Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Part one – Gathering at Yuyuan Garden: The group met at the entrance of Yuyuan Garden, a location chosen for its blend of traditional Chinese architecture and serene landscapes, reminiscent of historical and…

This intervention is designed to help newcomers to Shanghai build connections to both the city and their home cities through the dual lenses of food and urban exploration. The focus is on how participants can use these experiences to create a sense of belonging in Shanghai while maintaining their connection to their cultural roots. By…

Participant: Luna, 28, from China Fiona, 26, from China Duration: 3 hours Location: Central London At 1st of August, I invited two friends in London to participate in an early intervention and they didn’t know either side before this. This intervention was divided into two parts. First, the three of us took a city walk…

Reflecting on the experiences of individuals who have moved to major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, a clear theme emerges: the complexities of establishing connections and a sense of belonging in fast-paced urban environments. These cities, often seen as hubs of opportunity and growth, also present significant social and emotional challenges that can…

The is an interview with the 30-year-old female who moved to Shanghai 12 years ago.  She moved to Shanghai primarily for educational opportunities that were not available in her hometown. After graduation, she developed her career in Shanghai. Although this interviewee has lived in Shanghai for 12 years, she is still dealing with the challenge of…

The interview with the 26-year-old female working in Guangzhou provides valuable insights into her motivations, experiences, and challenges since moving to the city. The interviewee’s experience in Guangzhou is characterized by a balance between embracing the vibrant lifestyle and managing the emotional challenges of living in a large, fast-paced city. While she enjoys the opportunities…