Many people have no idea of the fascinating and important Jewish history that took place within China. Others have a general sense but would like to learn more. NEI is now a position to offer anything from a small dose/taste of Jewish heritage excursions in China up to a dedicated tour that incorporates Jewish aspects on almost all days. We can customize the itinerary to fit our clients’ interests. Highlights of our 10-day soft adventure include a visit to the Great Wall at Mutianyu section with a cable car ride, a day at Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Jewish Museum in Beijing and spending time at the Jewish Quarter, Jewish Memorial at Houshan Park, Former Jewish Hospital and Club. Contact us for a complete itinerary and a quote.
Fascinating facts about Jewish Heritage in China
- Shanghai was the only city in the world that provided a safe home for World War II refugees without papers. As a result, approximately 32,000 Jews, known among themselves as “Shanghailanders,” settled in this fascinating Chinese city. Like the names Schindler, Wallenberg and Sugihara, Shanghai has become synonymous with rescue and refuge during the fascist-dictated times when 6 million Jews perished and at least 35 million Chinese were killed and wounded. At one point, there were at least seven synagogues in Shanghai, but today very little evidence of this once vital community remains.
- The Russian Jewish Club eventually became a club for the whole community in Shanghai and now is used by the Shanghai Music Conservatory. The Jewish community had a big influence on the Shanghai’s music scene. In fact, Jews from central Europe and Russia trained many who would become the city’s leading musicians for decades.
- Historians often confused the Jewish community with the Muslim community as did the first Jesuits who came to China during the late Ming period. The Jews of Kaifeng were prosperous and leading members of the community. They were appointed to governing councils and had a strong presence. The decline of the Jewish community began in the Qing dynasty with the arrival of European and American protestant missionaries. The synagogue, built during the Ming period, was destroyed and the sacred texts lost.
