Peking University, September 23, 2026: On September 19 and 20, the biannual Clubs and Societies Fair returned to Peking University, transforming campus streets into a vibrant showcase of student life. Rows of stalls vied for attention as curious onlookers and enthusiastic students alike flocked to the fair. From spontaneous streetside performances by the Guitar Association to fashion displays by the Cultural Communication Association of Hanfu, the 197 participating clubs and societies each sought to attract prospective members with engaging activities.
Group photo of Dragon and Lion Dance Association
Among the various endeavors was an interactive lion dance workshop designed by the Dragon and Lion Dance Association. Students were encouraged to try on the lion headpiece and discover the charm of lion dancing through first-hand experience, said Fukubayashi Hiroyuki, president of the association and an undergraduate student majoring in marketing at the Guanghua School of Management.
Focused on preserving the culture of dragon and lion dance, the association has actively participated in many school-wide events, such as performing at the opening ceremony of the university sports meet and hosting a flagship "Weiming Dragon and Lion Night" event showcasing traditional arts. "The Clubs and Societies Fair is not only an opportunity for recruitment, but also a platform that showcases traditional culture," he said.
Participants of the 100-meter boating challenge
Another traditional Chinese sport featured at the fair was dragon boating. The Dragon Boat Association offered a taste of the sport with a dragon boat training simulator, where participants in a 100-meter boating challenge could win dragon boat-themed merchandise. Since its founding in 2015, the Dragon Boat Association has been dedicated to promoting the sport of dragon boating and carrying forward its spirit, serving as a platform to showcase the appeal of the sport.
Dragon Boat Association at their booth
Xing Ziyu, president of the association and a PhD student from Guanghua School of Management, introduced the diverse range of activities available, including ice dragon boat racing, dragon boat tug-of-war, kayaking, and paddleboarding. While the preparation for the fair has been tiring, she said, "it was a fulfilling experience witnessing the enthusiasm for dragon boating and a good opportunity to experience other clubs' activities, such as the Musical Theater Club's performance.
Talent Show by the Taekwondo Association
A number of clubs put on a series of performances showcasing the talent and creativity of students beyond the classroom. The Taekwondo Association captivated spectators with a dynamic routine of punches, kicks, and jumps, demonstrating both athletic skill and showmanship. "We devoted a significant amount of time to learning new moves, and several veteran practitioners mastered high-difficulty stunts after practicing countless times," said Zhou Yucheng, president of the association and a PhD student from the Department of Philosophy.
Besides poomsae (a sequence of pre-arranged movements or patterns) and sparring practice four times a week, the Taekwondo Association also organizes combat tournaments in collaboration with the Sanda Club, honing their skills through real-life matches. Reflecting on the fair, Zhou said she was happy for the support she received from her taekwondo friends and junior members of the association during the recruitment process.
Movies, sports, board games and musical instruments. The Clubs and Societies Fair offered a glimpse into the many ways students can pursue their interests, discover new passions, and connect with like-minded peers.
Written by: Lee Jie Xin Edited by: Chen Shizhuo Photo by: Wang Ziqian, Guo Mengjiao, Ji Haoyu, Huang Zhe, Li Jiayi, Li Yueqi, Zheng Tao, Zhu Chengxuan, courtesy of interviewees
