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» China-Travel-Articles » Reading: "China through the eyes of a Westener"
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| China through the eyes of a Westener |
By:
Tom Watkins |
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Tom Watkins-- China/Change Blog http://pod08.prospero.com/tomwatkins
Tom Watkins-- China/Change Blog http://pod08.prospero.com/tomwatkins
Jun 22, 2009 12:00 PM
The Beginning - In China there is No End
I end this blog as I began. I am boarding a Delta/Northwest DIRECT flight from Shanghai home to Detroit. Having a direct, non-stop flight from Detroit -- Shanghai-- Shanghai- Detroit is wonderful. Thank you or Xie xie ni Delta/Northwest!
I hope the Governor, who has promised to "go anywhere and do anything" to help bring jobs to Michigan will take advantage of this new direct flight and explore the fastest growing large world economy.
There are opportunities to attract Chinese investment to Michigan.
We need to get aggressive in building the "guanxi"/relationships necessary to make this happen. The county executives from Wayne and Oakland County, Robert Ficano and L.Brooks Patterson are doing their part, along with Paul Gieleghem, the chairman of the Macomb County Board of commissioners.
The state universities especially; University of Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State and Oakland University have a heavy knowledge base and involvement in China
What is needed is a comprehensive state initiative to tap this rich vein of potential investment in ways that create jobs for our citizens.
Even in the tough global economic downturn, the Chinese economy is growing at 6-8 percent annually.
Just as back in the 1800 gold rush when Chinese flocked to California in search of the "Gold Mountain," the Governor should tap the rich Chinese/American community in
Michigan and the business community and develop and action plan to help tap this vast market.
The China wave has been pounding our shores for sometime.
Where is the plan to maximize our resources and ride the China wave?
Michigan has much to offer China -- from our world class public and private colleges and universities, abundant crops, clean air, golf, casinos, technology to help clean up the pollution, and personal and commercial property that is extremely inexpensive relative to the real estate market in China. With 1.3 billion people and a push on to modernize there is not much the Chinese don't need or want.
GM, Amway, Ford and other Michigan companies are doing well in China and helping to employee Michigan workers.
We need to stop using China as the 21st century boogieman to scare workers that has suffered as Michigan fortunes have turned.
Are there issues with China? Of course. However, leaders don't stand on the sidelines and complain, the get in the game to win.
The resources exist in Michigan to help assure Chinese rise does not come at our demise.
The Delta/Northwest flight departs on a regular schedule.
I will be looking for our current Governor or our next--- and other adventuresome souls on future Delta flights.
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Jun 21, 2009 4:30 PM
Chinese Nationalism
Americans are not alone in a call for "Buy American." The Chinese citizen want a "Buy Chinese" plan when it comes to their government officials riding around in foreign luxury.
The Chinese internet and local conversations are abuzz about China making BMW an "official car" in China along with Audi and Mercedes which are already on the list. Being an "official car" makes it okay for government officials to drive such brands.
Regular Chinese citizens lit up the internet with complaints reports The China Daily, the official English National Chinese newspaper.
One post reads, "All government officials should drive Chinese brand cars."
"Why not ride the made-in China Red Flag car that Chairman Mao used to use?" demanded another.
At least no government official in Lansing is driving a luxury foreign brand.
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Jun 20, 2009 6:52 PM
World Expo
If you thought the 2008 Olympics was something--- look out! Shanghai, the financial center of China, a city of 22 million is not to be out done by China's capitol city of Beijing.
It is anticipated that 70 million people will at end this worldwide event. The theme is "better city-- better life.”
Koralo Chen, of Motown Travel, and I are seating in a tea room over looking Nanjing Road-- the street is packed with shoppers for as far as the eye can see. It seems we can see every nationality as we gaze down from our resting spot in the quite tea room above the fray. I am not sure many more people could squeeze into the available real estate. Watching the movement and flow of humanity is like a traffic pattern on any China street with constant flow-- without any prescribed rules.
After meeting with Chen Zhi Xing (who has more titles with Shanghai government than will barely fit on a business card-- let's call him Director General) who has some responsibility for the World Expo-- I am certain it with run with the precision and flair of the Olympics.
Director General Chen is interested in investment opportunities in Michigan.
We told him we will forward his request onto the Michigan Economic Develop Corporation’s (MEDC) office in Shanghai.
Clearly, while we continue to lose jobs in roaring tsunamis and add them in tear drops-- we must be willing to explore all options for job creation.
Many people will visit Bejing and Shanghai-- and think they have seen China--- NOT!
China is a country of contrasts. Many of the 1.3 billion people in China are living on a few dollars a day.
While most people from the West will see a modern face of China through the lens of Bejing and Shanghai-- there remains a tough underbelly—a developing nation that many do not see.
If you come to China-- get off the beaten path--- there is much to absorb.
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Jun 19, 2009 12:37 PM
Re-run: China Continues to Change
We'll, as a metaphor for change in China-- what once was the Buddhist artist studio, is now a Children’s Toy Shop-- selling Thomas the Train and others such toys.
The place that only a bit longer than a year ago was a place of peace and solitude is now overrun by Western Children whose parents are on assignment at one of the many overseas corporations based in Shanghai
I met an incredibly talented man named Ma Yinxing who is an artist who so wonderfully captures my imagination about China in his work.
When I first stumbled upon his studio tucked behind many others down a long lane I first noticed a rabbit cage with a huge rabbit inside. The cage was a piece of art itself with bright colors and unique shape-- not your typical wood frame with chicken wire.
I watched as young and old would come by, taking a piece of vegetable hanging from a hook on the rabbit cage. Written in Chinese was a sign that offered the rabbit for enjoyment and asked kindly for a donation if you wished to feed the rabbit
The artist latter explained through a friend that spoke Chinese and English the circle of life story involving the Buddhist artist and his rabbit.
The artist purchased the baby bunny at a food market and placed outside his shop to give enjoyment-- hence sparing its life. People would pay to feed the rabbit-- getting much joy and laughter.
The artist had no expense to raise his rabbit-- and it made people happy--- a great story! But, there is more.
The proceeds not only paid for the feeding of the rabbit and the cost of constructing its cage -- it further raised enough funds to feed cloth and educate several orphan children being raised by Buddhist monks near Tibet.
I am sorry I was unable to see this kind gentle artist that taught me a wonderful life lesson on how simple acts can produce great results.
I will spend some time seeing if any other nearby merchants know where this simple but good man has moved--- while I would love to see him, the memory of those few hours in his studio will remain with me for a lifetime.
He gave me one of his paintings of two monks and wrote a poem about the Beichun earthquake victims as a tangible lasting memory of this encounter in China
Perhaps sometimes it is better not to try to watch or recreate the re-run of a prior experience
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Jun 18, 2009 6:06 PM
The Sea of Humanity
People, people everywhere! As established, it does not matter if you are on the freeways, roadways, back alleys, shopping center or on a side, neighborhood street-- from early in the morning to late in the evening-- everywhere you look are Chinese people. Sometimes it feels like the entire 1.3 billion people are in front of you!
Yet, there are moments you can feel isolated, alienated and alone as you travel through the "Middle Kingdom." there are also moments of human contact that makes you realize just how small the world is and how alive you feel at that moment.
It comes when Koralo Chen and I are with a client at the foot massage and there are belly laughs as I try to communicate with the service staff.
It comes from the young people that approach you on the street to practice their English.
There are people like the many students who attempted to teach me Chinese and proudly showed me around their China that touch your heart with their innocence and wonder of life.
Meeting friends and Koralo's family and watching their face light up as the repeat; "Ni hao, Ni hao," the typical Chinese greeting and shaking your hand and with a smile on their face that is like a neon sign full of warmth.
It is the new people you meet along the way who float in and out of your life in a flash and you question if you will ever see them again while you savior the joy of the encounter.
These people touch you in magical and simple ways that make you feel alive and full of joy. You reflect momentarily on just how small the world is and about the similarities, desires and wants and needs we share as we travel through life half a world away.
As I have my lunch on my final day in China I close my eyes and can see the sea of humanity, some I met and became close to, some old colleagues and friends and some complete strangers that seem to float through my mind as I reflect on the experience. Others that you connect with for a few hours or a day that you feel you never will forget.
I wish more people from Michigan and America could see all I see in this vast country. It would scare and entice many. Perhaps it would motivate our leaders in the private and public sector to come together to solve the problems that impact the citizens of Michigan.
While I find the Chinese people both engaging and friendly-- they are equally hungry, competitive and driven to succeed from the individual to the highest reaches of private enterprise and government.
Michigan should take a look around the world and steal a line from the old Oldsmobile commercial-- "This is not your fathers Oldsmobile."
As a state we must get serious about transforming and re-inventing ourselves. Saying we are the state that "put the world on wheels or the "Arsenal of Democracy" is yesterday’s news.
Traveling to China would perhaps create the sense of urgency and hunger to change as if our very future depends on it--- because it does!
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Jun 17, 2009 6:12 PM
China and US: Linked Forever
Our National Leaders Know the US and China are inextricably Linked
President Obama and his Chinese counterpart President Hu made it a point to meet casually at the G-20 summit in London in April and will talk and meet when necessary as his administration unfolds.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton broke tradition and made her first over seas trip as Secretary to China and not Europe-- showing a new sign of respect to the importance of the Sino/US relationship.
US Secretary of Treasury recently returned from China where he met with his counterparts and assured the Chinese leaders and citizens that there trillion dollar investments in the US are secure.
The President made a wise move, reaching across party lines and selecting Republican Utah Governor, Jon Huntsman, someone who understands China and speaks the language, as ambassador to China.
Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, a long time critic of China's human rights record was in China recently on her best behavior, not raising the concerns of human rights at anywhere near the same volume as she has in the past.
China and the US need each other to address the worlds biggest problems inclusing: climate change/pollution, the world-wide economic crisis, North Korea, Iran, world terror and the threat of a global pandemic-- to name a few.
How China and the US manage and lead on these issues and many more will not only impact our respective citizens-- but all of humanity.
Let's hope our leaders will uphold the ideals of America in a respectful, strategic manner that allows for sensible, practical resolution to the differences between us.
There will clearly be flash points around human rights, Tibet, Uyghur, fair trade, World Trade disputes, and other issues.
President Obama is off to a good start in building the necessary "guanxi" or personal relationship and setting a strategic partnership with China that will allow the two countries to work together to address global issues. This is a good thing!
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Jun 16, 2009 5:59 PM
China: Impact Of Great Teachers
Great teachers can leave a indelibly mark for a life time.
My fourth grade teacher left such a mark on me. Something she said or the way she said it, blended together with the experience of a ten year old boy growing up in our nation’s capitol in the 1950's and early 60's created a life long interest about all things China for me.
Clearly, China, (as it has through its 5000 year history), has changed and evolved since my brief introduction in that fourth grade classroom many years ago. There are so many faces, sides and complexities of China.
Some in Michigan and America bristle and respond to me negatively when I write articles and blogs about China.
Clearly, like our own U.S. history (the treatment of slaves and Native American Indians come to mine) there are things not to like about this central control, communist country.
This blog is not intended to be a detailed political analysis of China's history.
While I have experienced more about China than many in Michigan and America there is far to much to know and such deep complexities to come close to detailing in this simple blog communication method.
I have traveled to China enough times that I have begun to have like a TV-- rerun experiences.
Over a period of years while in Beijing, I would try to find my way on my own down this narrow ally passage to this neighborhood (Hutong) where I discovered and old Mao poster on the side of a building.
I was always delighted I was able to find my way through this huge city down the major streets to the narrow alleys and find this fading black and white landmark relic of China's past.
The neighborhood changed from a vibrant place full of life, to being shed of its people and used as a storage building to finally I returned one year and the once vibrant neighborhood was torn down and this Bejing adventure was over--- and only a memory of an ever changing China.
Today, in Shanghai I will have another "rerun" experience as I attempt to find an good man, a Buddhist, and artist I had the pleasure of being enlightened by in a chance encounter in a previous trip to this vast, vibrant city-- as the theme of the Shanghai World Expo says-- "Better City- Better Life"
Meeting this gentle man added value to my life and I hope to see him latter and introduce him to the reader. Yet, China, like a Kaleidoscope, is full of constant and unpredictable change-- I have no clue if I will find my way back to this area where we once met, if the area remains or if he will occupy the space.
The experiences of China!
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Jun 15, 2009 6:17 PM
The National Exam
One day, and one day only-- the nation stands still as everyone that is seeking admission to a university takes the national exam. The test lasts nine hours and impacts opportunities for generations.
The exam will determine the fate of more than 10 million Chinese students. China is changing at a break neck speed but the ritual of the “gao kao” or national college entrance exam remains as much of a fixture as Mao's portrait hanging above Tiananmen Square and on every Chinese currency note.
The test is high stakes-- as not only is the students future determined my how well they score and hence what top quality university he/she may attend-- but often the extended family has invested deeply in the students success-- as if the families future is equally dependent on the outcome-- because it is!
The Chinese compare the exam to a horde of “ten thousand soldiers and as many horses attempting to cross a single log bridge.”
Do you go to the university, the factory or the fields?
That is how serious this test is to these students and their families.
Only three-fifths of those taking the test will pass and the nine-hour test is offered only once a year and is the only consideration for admission to Chinese universities.
The test is twice as long as the SAT or ACT the US test that is one part of the consideration for college admission to US colleges and universities-- an can be taken multiple times.
With 1.3 billion people, China needs to find ways to "sort and select" at multiple levels. The gao kao is one such sort and select system.
Many believe the Chinese education methods perpetuate a system that stifles creativity and innovation in favor of rote memorization.
Creativity and innovations are the commodities that will matter in the future. The 21st century will be ruled by who gets their system of quality education correct-- from the cradle to the grave.
The US education system, with all its flaws gives us a leg up--- let's hope the Chinese don't figure it out and catch up!
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Jun 14, 2009 4:23 PM
Koralo Chen's Photos from China
View the slideshow
Koralo Chen traveled with me through China and took tons of amazing photos. Koralo runs Motown Travel in Detroit. He's also a consultant to WWJ-TV on its Emmy Award winning special "Building Bridges: From The Great Lakes To the Great Wall." Mr. Chen has been arranging business and cultural events in both China and Michigan for years. Koralo has also written a new pictorial book called "Pure Michigan" which he compiled to showcase places in Michigan for the Chinese market. Click Here for more information and to purchase "Pure Michigan".
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Jun 12, 2009 6:02 PM
Friday: Public Transportation
As Michigan debates a regional transportation system, China has a developed transportation system that includes: trains, subways, buses ( that actually run at a steady pace and ON TIME), trolley cars, pedi-cabs ( human powered adult-size tricycles) bikes to rent, and an extremely affordable taxi- cab system.
The pedi-cabs are not only inexpensive but also a fun way to travel. They are also a great tourist attraction for Chinese and foreigner alike.
Taxi's are cheap! As an example, I took a cab from where I was staying to one of the two ( yes, there are two railway stations that are in working order--- unlike to abandoned train station in downtown Detroit) -- with traffic I was in the taxi cab for over 45 minutes or approximately 15 miles and the cost was 24 Yuan( Chinese currency) or less than 3.00 US dollars.
Also, many of the buses and cabs are being converted to natural gas or other more environmentally friendly energy sources.
The train ride to Suzhou was only about 40 minutes on the D-Train or the bullet train that travels at high rates of speed. It is only a two hour train ride from Nanjing to Shanghai. Previously, on a slower train this trip would take 4-5 hours. This train system connects 3 major cities, Huangzhou, Nanjing and Shanghai( with links to a national system). This rail system has helped create an economic boom in these cities and many other smaller towns along the route. This area is referred to as the Yangtze Delta Region an extremely prosperous area in China.
I should also point out the electronic ticket machine had instructions in both Chinese and English making using the system easy and understandable.
China has a transportation system that rivals the European Union. You would think, the City and State that put the world on wheels, would get unstuck and begin to develop a sensible and affordable public transportation system--- after all, we have entered the 21st century!
Jun 11, 2009 4:12 PM
Thursday: Pudong
Pudong is a section of Shanghai across the Huangpu river from the Bund (the Bund means. river shore) From the historical section of downtown Shanghai. There are many Western style building dating back a hundred years when china was occupied by the West and at times by Japan
During Mao's era, couples would stroll along the Bund on a romantic date. A truly daring couple may even touch or momentarily hold hands.
I remember this area well, because I stood in a building in 1989 looking across this river to what is now Pudong and it was empty fields.
Shanghai has been opened to the West (forcibly at times) and has many Foreign people.
In 1989, when I first visited this City China has only been opened to the West a few years and it was still rather novel to see the "foreign devil" or "big nose" as we are called-- behind are back--- or in many cases to our face, as there was little risk of a Western person t that time speaking Chinese.
I was traveling at that time with a professor of Chinese studies at the University of Michigan, Dr. Ken DeWoskin who speaks fluent Chinese.
It was funny when we were in. shop and the two young sales clerks were laughing, talking loudly to each other referring to us as "big nose, foreign devils," when Dr. DeWoskin responded in perfect Chinese--- I thought their young eyes were going to pop out of the young girls yes and the responded! " Dui bu qi, Dui bu qi" or sorry sorry as the hurried away The Chinese were interested about ever thing western in 1989. We went to a "disco" with flashing light, cement floor and not a matching set of furniture in the place and laughed and communicated with young and old Chinese alike (although no one spoke Chinese we found ways to communicate at the time through hand gestures and just smiles and laughter) it was a special evening of raw friendship between people that is hard to replicate in two lifetimes.
To say Shanghai is a big city is a big city is an understatement. It is hugh! It is said to have approximately 22 million people.
Today, Pudong it is said to have 3 times the number if skyscrapers as Manhattan. It was like the sky was a kaleidoscope of brilliant flashing colors dotting the sky as each buiding is lit against the night sky .We were hosted by a local member of the Shanghai government and had a delightful and plentiful meal consisting of Chinese and Western food at the Pudong Shangrala.
I am sure I have mentioned before but the shear size of the crowds on the street--- at any time of the day or night, in various parts of Shanghai ( and all of China it seems) and the thongs of people is never ending. It is amazing how people glide effortlessly through the crowds.
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Jun 10, 2009 5:49 PM
Wednesday: Shanghai:
Driving
Have I mentioned driving here, or I should say, being a passenger in a car is a roller coaster experience. Lanes, never heard of them in China. Imagine leaving the stadium after a big game and people are jocking for space and you get a sense of what the roads are like.
Night driving is another adventure entirely. First, many cars only drive with no lights on or just their floor lights. Then there are the other bikes and various motorized things on the road with no lights on even basic reflectors.
The horn. I sure hope the auto companies provide an extended warranty on the horn. The tires, transmission and engine will certainly last longer than the horn -- that is honked each time we passed another motorized contraption on the highway. Arriving in Shanghai
Shanghai will host the World Expo in 2110. The theme is sustainable cities.
Arriving at the Shanghai airport, even after midnight you have to run the gauntlet of illegal "taxi" driver offering their services. Be on the safe side and follow the line to the official taxi service. Better not get Shanghaied in Shanghai!
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Jun 9, 2009 6:02 PM
Promoting Michigan In China
One of the objectives of my many trips to China is to promote our great state. Many Chinese people know about Michigan for our "innovation," "auto's," "Henry Ford, and the "Great Lakes." With hundreds of millions of people that have risen out of poverty since China opened to the world and hundred of thousand new millionaires there is an opportunity to promote Michigan to China.
From out top rated universities, the auto business, pristine, , abundant golf courses, casinos and clean freshwater and air can make Michigan a draw for Chinese investment and tourism.
One promotional opportunity with the new direct, non-stop flight from Shanghai-Detroit would be to encourage those Chinese passengers that land at Detroit Metro and are flying on to other US destinations to "spend" a few days in Michigan.
The State of Michigan can create a partnership to promote Pure Michigan by allowing Chinese pass angers flying on to other cities to stay 3-5 in Michigan prior to departing-- at no greater air ticket cost for the multiple day lay over. I can imagine several tour packages developed that would entice the Chinese visitor to "spend" a few days taking in Pure Michigan.
We need to explore ever opportunity to create jobs in Michigan--- developing a global, especially a China plan would be help.
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Jun 8, 2009 2:38 PM
Traffic Daze!
Mianyang: The flow of traffic is an amazing event to watch. There are traffic light on major roads in this City of 3 million-- but the secondary roads it is free flowing with no lights or traffic signs. It is frightening, but some how it works.
With bikes, mopeds, motorcycles, 3 wheel trucks, bike-rickshaws, and other means of transportation that I have never seen before- not to mention the endless sea of people -- it is a wonder I have not witnessed a death at every intersection.
Just imagine, it is reported that there are only 50 cars per everyone 1,000 people. GM is a highly valued car in China and will be a major part of any resurgence of the company.
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Jun 7, 2009 7:43 PM
Sunday
I have been in Mianyang now for several days and have met a total of two people from Brazil. Other than that, I have not seen another westerner. I have seen many Chinese! Mianyang is a city few have every heard of yet the area has a population of 3 million people. It seems all were downtown shopping as I wandered the city.As I walk around town I generate a great number of long stares and an occasional "helloooooo" as the young kids mimic our greeting. I respond with "Ni hao"-- which means you good-- or ni hao ma (adding the ma, makes it a question-- ie are you good! Many parents nudge their young children, 4-5 years old and up forward to encourage them to practice their english. Chinese children begin to learn English in elementary school. Many have a good grasp on the language.
Learn Chinese
It is important that more of our schools teach Chinese. Why? The Chinese economy is fastest growing large economy in the world. Hummer, part if the GM empire is being sold off to China. This is just the beginning of the Chinese expansion and purchasing American brands. China has been the factory to the world for sometime now but will emerge from this role with a large cash reserve and a desire to spread its wings. There have been numerous reports at the Federal and state level pointing out we are dangerously uninformed about China.
Oakland County has taken the boldest step to rectify this situation. At my suggestion, L.Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive, has called for the teaching of Mandarin Chinese in all Oakland County schools. This will help make Oakland County an economic magnet for Chinese investment and prepare its children for the hyper-competitve global economy.
Local Leadership
The leadership for making sure the Chinese rise does not come at Michigan's demise has been from county leaders such as Patterson, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and recently in Macomb County by County Commissioners Ed Bruley, Ken Lampar and under the leadership of its Chairman, Paul Gieleghem. There has been little effective leadership from the state on developing strategies to make globalization benefit our state and the citizens being hurt by the ever changing global economy.
I Think I Will Have Chinese For Lunch
I had a wonderful lunch of spicy chicken, long green beans, mushrooms, rice and a very spicy soup with--- well to be honest, I have no clue what was in it! I tasted good, and some things are better left unknown!
Escape the Heat And The Noise-- Visit A City Park
Chinese cities are hot and noisy in the summer months Other than retreating to your hotel room and cranking up the AC-- seeking out a City park is a wonderful oasis. The parks are buzzing with activity but the noise level and temp drop noticeably. You will see Tai Chi, ball room dancing, Chinese chess, old men sunning their pet bird in bamboo cages and 3 generations of families out for a stroll together.
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Jun 6, 2009 1:11 PM
Mianyang
MIANYANG: I was in Tiananmen Square with the students leading up to the massacre on June 4th 1989 (see commentary from Ann Arbor News.)
I returned to China 20 years after this human tragedy. I am not in Beijing and the purpose of my trip does not center on this issue.
As to be expected, there was no media mention of the anniversary and no discussion about the issue in public conversation. Those looking to acknowledge the 20th anniversary of China's horrible and deadly crackdown at Tiananmen Square are finding their efforts overshadowed by the emergence of a China linked to U.S. economic and diplomatic efforts around the world.
From the need to borrow to fund our federal economic stimulus package, North Korea, the war on terror and global warming--- we need China's engagement.
The US has borrowed nearly a trillion dollars from the Chinese and we need to borrow more given our massive Federal spending spree that has no end in sight.. It is difficult to lecture the very government that is loaning you money to stay afloat.
Much has changed since Bill Clinton called the Chinese leaders the "Butchers of Beijing," after this bloody suppression of students calling for the end of corruption and greater freedom and democracy. The Obama Cabinet Officials and even Speaker Nancy Pelosi have toned down their human rights rhetoric in recent visits to China.
There has been a clear trade off in China since Tiananmen Square 20 years ago-- the government improves the Chinese people's economic prospects and way of life ( mainly urban dwellers) and the Chinese people will not rock the Chinese Communist leaders boat or control of power
There is a an old Chinese saying: "the water floats the boat-- and the water can sink the boat."
Time will tell how what the Chinese government refer to as the Tiananmen Square "incident" and the world calls a massacre will play out.
What is obvious to me is that our world and the Chinese peoples world are inextricably linked. We better hope the leaders on both sides of the ocean manage our tensions and issues well-- because our futures, and the future of all humanity depend on their leadership.
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Jun 5, 2009 4:21 PM
Building Relationships in China
Building "guanxi" or relationships is a slow and ongoing process. It begins with the introduction, the countless formal meetings and discussions ( where if you do not speak Chinese you sit in silence as the Chinese officials have discussions between themselves for minutes at a time-- as though you are invisible) to go over the material countless times ending with a huge ( often 8-12 course) dinner with an equal number of toasts
Often the evenings conclude with a Chinese foot massage.
At the end of a long day of meetings, lectures and being stuffed like a Peking Duck, there is nothing more relaxing and soothing than a Chinese foot massage.
You can find these business establishments in any city, both large and small. Every foot massage establishment has its difference-- the one common denominator is pure relaxation and a shared experience with your colleagues and friends.
The place can be small with only a few foot massage chairs or huge, as large as a good size hotel. It is a joint social experience as the roomshave dozens of chairs for patrons.
The experience begins with soaking your feet in steamy hot water, often with chinese herbs, of your choice sprinkled in ( this is always a treat, because without someone who speaks Chinese with you, you have no clue what is being added to the water-- which just adds to the experience. I figure, they have been doing this treatment for centuries, so-- I say-- go for it!
The people who provide the massage are trained to put pressure at various points on your feet. The Chinese traditional medicine believes a trained person can detect numerous ailments by examining ones foot.
I can tell you this, after a long day of International travel, all day meeting. And sightseeing--- this is a must do to cap off a day in China.
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Jan 26, 2008 2:33 PM
Readjusting
My first meal after arriving back home was a big bowl of spaghetti and meat balls (with nothing looking back at me!) and a diet Coke -- difficult to find in China. While I love my Chinese Green Tea --- I welcomed my cup of coffee at Tuscan Cafe (the equivalent of Cheers -- where everyone knows your name) coffee house in Northville. Now, I will shake my jet lag, unpack, pay the bills and begin to plan my next business and always pleasurable trip back to China this spring!
About the writer: Tom Watkins is a global business and education consultant with special interest in China. He served as Michigan's State Superintendent of Schools from 2001 to 2005 and Michigan's mental health director under Gov. Jim Blanchard from 1986 to 1990. He previously ran a business organization in Florida.
Tom has been a champion for building business and educational bridges between China and Michigan for years. While serving as state school superintendent in 2006, he signed a sister agreement with schools in Tianjin. He is also an honorary professor at Mianyang University in China, and an honorary board member of the Chinese Association of Greater Detroit. On this recent trip he was appointed a "special consultant" to China Art and Culture Institute in Beijing by its president, Mr Sheng for his work building cultural, business and educational ties between the two countries.
Tom was instrumental and served as China business and education consultant to WWJ-TV's breakthrough special TV series "Building Bridges: From the Great Lakes to the Great Wall." (see www.wwjtv.com ) He regularly appears on local radio and television programs talking about business and education issues. Tom is a prolific writer whose work appears in the Detroit Free Press, The Detroit News, The Michigan Chronicle, The Observer and Eccentric, the Oakland Press, The Ann Arbor News, the Grand Rapids Press, The Midland DAily News, The Dearborn Press and Guide, Oakland Business Review,EdNews, as well as other newspapers and national education publications.
He can be reached via e-mail.
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Jan 25, 2008 12:27 PM
Flight From Beijing To Detroit
"Turn off the Blackberry sir", and with that final note - I conclude two weeks of typing with my thumbs on my travels to Tibet and China thanks to my trusted Blackberry. I hope you have enjoyed my China musings. Interested in doing business in China or building educational and cultural ties or better yet, bringing your China Business to Michigan? Feel free to email me.
As my friend Koralo Chen likes to say--- "it is a big world-- and in a big world you have many, many different type of Birds" We certainly have met many different type of birds on this trip. It was my pleasure to share the experience with you. "Jian jian" or "goodbye" in English – until we see you again.
Read Tom's article on "Birds" on Midland Daily News "Watkins: Eagles, ostriches or dodos?"
HEADING TO BEIJING AIRPORT: Leave plenty of time-- it is one of the busiest terminals in the world, and you can get backed up in traffic in the toll booths on the way to the airport. The Chinese New Year is about to begin and more of the 1.3 billion people here are traveling home which means our travel time is taking much longer.
Speaking of home, I look forward to returning to the familiarity of my own culture as much as I enjoy China The people of China are wonderful along with their culture. But Dorothy had it right "There is no place like Home!"
BEIJING: I begin my final day in china for this trip-- where I began. Any day where there is blue sky and sun shine in Beijing-- is a great day. For anyone who has been in Beijing-- you know it is often smog/cloud covered with a polluted and sand-filled wind blown in from the Gobi Desert.
I began with hot coca cola and ginger, my hosts tells me it is good for my cold which I haven't been able to shake the two weeks on this trip. Also, while in China seldom does a meal go by without watermelon being served. There is an old chinese saying "When you focus on the sesame seed you lose sight of the watermelon" -- meaning when you focus on the small and inconsequential things you lose sight of the larger picture. People in Michigan should heed that advice.
As Michigan's future unfolds--- which will it be-- the sesame seed or the watermelon? We must continue to invest in innovation, talent and our people from the craddle to the grave if we wish to compete in the 21st century global economy. I wish I could take everyone across our great state on a trip to China. It would give everyone a stronger sense of the world we must live and compete as this century unfolds.
I am not an apologist for many things that need to be improved, fixed and changed in China. I do know that pretending that the world and China have not changed is done at our own peril. The China wave has been unleashed-- we can do nothing and be swamped--- or learn to surf and ride the wave.
Surfs up! Grab your board and come on in-- the water may be a bit rough, but can can still ride the big wave to a brighter future!
AFTERNOON in BEIJING: The sky is blue, the sun still shining--- and traffic is at a stand still. The two hours that was set aside to do some marathon shopping was eaten up by being stuck in the awful
Beijing traffic. It is difficult to contemplate where all the new cars being produced by the Big Three and others here in China are going to go!
With only a small percent of the 1.3 billion Chinese currently owning a car, and with a rising middle class looking for the mobility and status of owning a car, China's government certainly have a long road to go in dealing with an even worse congestion issue down the road.
When in China, it is important to assimilate with a Chinese attitude-- relax. But my American ways do kick in--- I am now 20 minutes late for my meeting--- and marathon shopping plan has had to be abandoned!
FRIDAY NIGHT IN BEIJING: Ah China! You gotta laugh sometimes about situations when traveling in a foreign country! My last day in Beijing is packed with meetings with the American International Chamber of Commerce, China.Com.cn and Beijing International College. Tonight, I had a good laugh as I navigated China on my own.
Being our last night here, Koralo Chen, my travel companion and guide across China, and I decided to take in one last famous Chinese foot massage. Koralo's massage was complete and he decided to go back to the hotel to start packing for our return flight. As the spa was only several blocks from the hotel, I was quite comfortable walking myself back. As I was readying to leave, I discovered Koralo had mistakenly left and taken my locker key as well (they put your valuables away for safekeeping).
So, in the dead of winter, I had no coat or shoes and my cell phone and hotel key as all were locked inside my locker. I assumed the spa facility had a master key for all the locks. I was wrong! There we stood – my having little grasp of English and I was pulling out all stops to communicate in Chinese.
"You call friend" I said. "My phone and his number is locked in the locker" ( I tried the old tried and true language techniques--- say it louder and slower ) to no avail.
So there we stood, me contemplating the several block walk back to the hotel with no coat,shoes or room keys and now nearly every employee in the spa was standing there trying to help – they didn't speak much English and I didn't speak much Chinese. Somehow, an extra key surfaced and that spawned negotiations then over how I should pay for the lost key. As you learn in China-- all things are negotiable.
They wanted 60 yuan and I settled on about $3 U.S, dollars. Let me assure you -- it was a very reasonable price to experience the comical nature of the evening. It was also a good price as I had a 5:00am wake up call!
BEIJING: As I am about to leave China I read in the Asian Financial Times that China reports an economic growth rate of 11.4 percent for 2007. And as I have stated earlier, this rapid economic expansion is accomplished with the Chinese Central government putting speed bumps in place to slow down the "red" hot Chinese economy! Oh, how Michigan longs for some good news like this!
I held two very productive meetings with Geng Xuechao, President and Professor of Beijing International Chinese College and his colleagues. Professor Geng and his team are very well connected former top educational officials in China. Beijing International national Chinese College has created a number of valuable educational products to help teach Chinese language to people around the world. With the continued global demand to learn Chinese language, history and culture, BICC should will find a solid niche in this ever expanding market.
We also held meetings with the American International Chamber of Commerce to talk about educational connections to Michigan. Those meetings were facilitated by Amy Deng, who is the International Education Director there. During our meeting with the Chamber, we signed an agreement to work together to help create new economic and educational ties between Chinese and Michigan Institutions.
While engaging in any business meetings in China, there is a ritual that includes the giving of gifts that is customary. I have participated in this ritual for many years and as I have made friends, I have also received incredible beautiful gifts that include silk scarves, ceramic vases, Cloisonne and Chinese musical instruments. Amid the many beautiful gifts I have received, I was overwhelmed by the unique gift of calligraphy poem scroll that the President of the China Art and Culture Institute in Beijing presented me during my visit. He not only honored me with his gift but he appointed me as a Special Consultant to the Institute for my efforts to build cultural and educational ties between the US and China. The calligraphy takes my name and writes a poem using my names and characteristics of my profession, life and values his sees in me. The poem is about 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide is beautiful as Mr. Sheng – a nationally renowned calligrapher's work literally jumps off the page. The president also presented us with a beautiful and unique vase.
All I could do was say "Xie Xie Ni" Thank you my good friend, Mr. Sheng, for your contribution to the arts and for the wonderful gift of your kindness and friendship. You are part of the fabric of what makes a Great China."
Earlier Friday: We met with old friends at China.com.cn, a leading national Internet outlet in China (http://www.china.com.cn ) I had appeared on china.com.cn along with Koralo Chen, of Motown Travel, promoting the work of Dr Vickie Markavitch and L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County Executive in promoting the teaching of Chinese in Oakland County schools. Their efforts have been heard loud and clear by Chinese business and education leaders. It is critical that we understand, appreciate and are able to do business, collaborate and compete with the Chinese now and in the future. Dr Markavitch and Patterson and their teams are to be commended for their leadership and vision. We also appeared to help promote Michigan as a great place for the Chinese rising middle class as a place they might work, become educated, travel and also set up new businesses. Koralo Chen's "Pure Michigan" picture book which he created in the fall to talk about Michigan as a destination appeared with pictures of Michigan destinations with both Mandarin Chinese and English captions. The majority of the photos were taken by Dennis Cox, a Michigan photographer and the book can be purchased at www.motowntravel.com.
China.com.cn. is interested in learning more about Michigan and bridges being built between Michigan and China. Speaking of Michigan and Chinese arts – the Terra Cotta warriors are currently on display at the Midland Art Museum through April (thanks to the support of Dow Chemical Co....). See www.mcfta.org for more details. This is worth the drive to Midland to see the incredible clay warriors! I have stood in the pit in Xian -- the ancient capitol of China in the middle of the country where the warriors were discovered in a farm field some years ago.
NARITA, Japan: Koralo Chen and I are now on our customary layover in Narita, Japan, on our way back to good ole Michigan. Beginning in 2009, this layover wont be necessary as Northwest Airlines will begin a direct flight from Detroit to Shanghai and China Southern will fly direct from Detroit to Beijing. Ask any one who has taken this trip and they will tell you what a relief this direct flight will be! Time to grab some instant noodles at the Northwest Airlines World Club. Soon, it will be back to my good 'ole American diet.
Proud To Be An American: The Chinese people are extremely friendly and I enjoy their company and friendship on each of the many trips I have made since my first two trips in 1989. A fourth grade teacher opened my eyes to China many years ago. I have witnessed much progress and many setbacks in a China over the years. The Chinese have come very far and still have a way to go to address many issues that sting the American sensibilities and impact the American worker such as: human and religious rights, fair trade, currency manipulation, pollution, theft of intellectual property, Tibet and their engagement in Darfur etc. Yet, when you look at their 5000 year history and the progress of moving more people out of poverty than any other nation in the world their progress is impressive indeed. This is not to forgive or forget the millions that lost their lives under the policies of Mao or the brutal crackdown on the student protesters in Tianamen Square in 1989.
Remember, Vincent Chin! Nor should we take a "holier than thou" attitude as we have our own history of abuse of the Native American people, African Americans and exploitation of Chinese people as they labored to build our nation and railroads not to mention the Chinese Exclusionary Act that discriminated against Chinese in immigration policies.
And let us not forget Vincent Chin, the Chinese American that was beaten to death with a baseball bat, here in Detroit 25 years ago because some disgruntled laid-off auto workers mistook him for a Japanese person and took out their frustration of losing their jobs on his skull.
After nearly 12 hours in the air we touched down back in the good ole USA. It has been an exhilarating trip. It was as productive as it was eye opening and fun.
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Jan 24, 2008 7:20 PM
Opportunities
THURSDAY, Jan, 24 (Changchu onto Beijing): Another flight from Changchu to Beijing and again I am the only Westerner on the flight. Dinner is interesting, a can of cold soup and sausage that looks like a big Stoggie cigar in a gold tube. I decided to pass and settled on the peanuts and a cup of green tea.
Two days of meetings in China's Capital City Of Beijing and then its "home sweet home!" I love the experience and adventure of China but enjoy many of the things we take for granted in the "Land of the Free and the Home Of The Brave." Sometimes it is a simple is something you are used to eating, and others it is more profound-- like having greater choices, freedom and the ability to elect those who will lead us. I have to remember, even when as a country we make a mistake, it at least it is OUR mistake-- or that of the majority of people voting. Thank God for our freedom, democracy and an Arby's Roast Beef sandwhich that am looking forward to and a good cup of my neighborhood coffee, at Tuscan Cafe and talking about presidential politics with my friends. The simple pleasures are the best! Long Live---- Freedom and Democracy--- and good ole home cooking. There is something to be said for familiarity.
CHANGCHUN: The get rich quick that has been going on for quite some time has many individual investors here and in the halls of the national government fearing a stock market bubble and potential collapse. The Chinese people have somewhat shaken off the rusted chains of Communism and have dived head first into unbriddled capitalism. The calls for freedom and democracy seemed to have been chilled after the brutal government crackdown in Tianamen Square in 1989 and with the rise of the economy and the leaps in the standard of living for many average Chinese. With the economies of the U.S. and China so linked, a fall in one economy could impact both.
As I gather my belongings in Changchun in the far northeast side of China, I also collect my thoughts and think the 21st century will be driven to a great extent by America and China. The fuel will be leadership, innovation creativity knowledge and the ability to not simple adapt to change-- but rather, lead it. What are we dong as individuals, the state and nation to harness these ingredients necessary to lead in the 21st century?
China has been occupied by forieign forces., addicted to opium, closed itself off from the world and inflicted itself with starvation and the horrors of the cultural revolution. Yet, because of the determination of new leadership was able to throw off much of that old ideology that was holding the country back and spring forward - overcoming economic and political setbacks, the country is sailing boldly into the future.Can Michigan and America break from its old economic and political ideology and forge a uniquely American direction that will allow us to lead as the 21st century unfolds? GM, Ford and Chrysler are looking to downsize their dealer network in the U.S. which has been "supersized" in the past. Could there be a marriage of sorts between the declining US auto market and the booming Chinese car market? The Chinese auto market has mirrored the double digit economic growth of China for 20 years.
Other opportunities:
Could Michigan also make "green" off of helping China with pollution problem?
Michigan has a recent rich history of cleaning up our environmental messes--- can we cash in by helping China clean up the mess it has created?
Can Michigan Shift Into High Gear when it Comes To China?
Michigan needs a China (and India) roadmap that taps the best and brightest business, labor and academic minds to find ways to make China's rise work for us.
Other states and nations are far ahead of us on this economic race. Here we are eight years into the 21st century and no statewide elected leader has traveled to China or India the two fastest growing large world economies reaching for our piece of the brass ring. With 1.3 billion people and a rising middle class, tapping the Chinese market is the Mother lode of the 21st century global commerce Over 300 million Chinese people have risen out of poverty in the last quarter of a century.
Knowledge is power! We need more of the students in Michigan and across the country to be learning Chinese-- the most widely spoken language on the planet. How much do you know about China? Many believe China and China will be the two super powers of this new century. The Chinese are studying our language. History, political systems and other ways to enhance their standing in the world. Can we say we are aggressively doing the same?
We have a choice-- shift into high gear-- or get runover! Regardless of your view on China or globalization—neither is going away. How do we prepare our children, our state and our nation for this hyper-competitive, rapidly changing, disruptive information and technologically-driven world that defies predictability?
Michigan and America will continue to be successful when we make our state and nation where everyone comes for intellectual deposits and withdraws and are exporting knowledge , creativity , innovation and talent on the world stage. The 21 century belongs to the globally connected-- are we wired (or better still, wireless) for change!
Perhaps John Chambers, President and CEO of Cisco Systems, summed it up best when he said; " if we move slower than our global peers, we will be left behind." Can we shift gears quickly enough to catch up?
GAME ON!!! As one criss crosses China and see mention of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics – nearly everyone sees this as the 21st century coming out party for modern China. These will be eye opening events for China and the world I believe many will be surprised on just how far this county who was humiliated by invasions, concessions in the early part of the 20th century and suffered under famine, the cultural revolution and the Great Leap forward during much of the Mao reign. Clearly more change is necessary in areas that include; human and religious rights, free and fair trade, currency manipulation, theft of intellectual policy to name a few. Yet, the Olympics are coming and hopefully will be a peaceful event where the world comes together --- and this year comes together around the theme the Chinese have chosen:
ONE WORLD--- ONE DREAM
Tom Watkins of Michigan/USA served as state superintendent of schools, 2001-2005,President and CEO of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, Florida, 1996-2001, Michigan state mental health director, 1986-1990, and as an elected member of the Wayne County Charter Commission, 1980-1982. He has traveled extensively in China and has written numerous articles about his experiences. He can be reached at: tdwatkins@aol.com |
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