Fun Classes for Expats Living in Wuhan
Summary: Once you've arrived in Wuhan, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Wuhan, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture while also meeting new people. Whether you're interested in honing your culinary skills, learning Mandarin, exploring the world of fine wines, or expressing yourself through art, Wuhan offers a variety of classes that can enrich your stay. These classes not only provide valuable learning experiences but also serve as social hubs where you can connect with both locals and fellow expatriates. Below is a curated list of classes in Wuhan that are suitable for English-speaking adults who are eager to learn and enjoy new experiences.
Wuhan Mandarin School
Type of Class(es): Mandarin Language Courses
Location: Guanggu, Wuhan
Wuhan Mandarin School offers a range of Mandarin language courses designed for different proficiency levels. Their classes are interactive and focus on practical language skills, making it easier for English-speaking expats to start communicating in the local language. Small group settings ensure personalized attention, which is ideal for those still learning Mandarin.
Wuhan Cooking Workshop
Type of Class(es): Chinese Cooking Classes
Location: Hanyang District, Wuhan
At Wuhan Cooking Workshop, expats can dive into the world of Chinese cuisine. The classes are hands-on and taught by experienced chefs who guide you through the process of creating traditional dishes. Even with limited Mandarin skills, the visual and practical aspects of cooking make these classes enjoyable and educational.
Yangtze River Wine Academy
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Wuchang District, Wuhan
The Yangtze River Wine Academy offers wine tasting classes that cater to both beginners and connoisseurs. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn about various wines from around the world, including local Chinese varieties. The classes are conducted in English, making them accessible to expats who wish to expand their oenological knowledge.
Wuhan Art Studio
Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing Classes
Location: Optics Valley, Wuhan
Wuhan Art Studio provides a creative outlet for expats looking to explore their artistic side. The studio offers a range of classes in painting and drawing, suitable for all skill levels. The relaxed atmosphere and English-speaking instructors make it easy for newcomers to get involved and express themselves through art.
Wuhan International Culture Exchange Center
Type of Class(es): Cultural Workshops and Language Exchange
Location: Jianghan District, Wuhan
This center is a hub for cultural exchange, offering workshops that cover various aspects of Chinese culture, such as calligraphy, tea ceremony, and traditional music. They also host language exchange events, which are perfect for practicing Mandarin while helping others with their English.
Wuhan Photography Club
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: Various locations in Wuhan
The Wuhan Photography Club organizes workshops for photography enthusiasts of all levels. These workshops cover different techniques and styles, and often include photo walks around the city, allowing participants to capture Wuhan's unique landscapes and cityscapes while learning.
Wuhan International Book Club
Type of Class(es): Literature Discussion Groups
Location: Meetings at various cafes and libraries in Wuhan
For those who love reading, the Wuhan International Book Club offers a space to discuss literature with fellow expats. The club selects books available in English and holds regular meetings to share insights and opinions, fostering a sense of community among book lovers.
Wuhan Crafters Guild
Type of Class(es): Crafting and DIY Workshops
Location: Various locations in Wuhan
The Wuhan Crafters Guild is a group for those interested in crafting and DIY projects. They offer workshops on a variety of crafts, such as knitting, jewelry making, and pottery. These workshops are often led by fellow expats and provide a fun way to learn new skills and meet people with similar interests.
Wuhan Tea Culture Club
Type of Class(es): Tea Tasting and History
Location: Hankou District, Wuhan
The Wuhan Tea Culture Club is dedicated to exploring the rich history and variety of Chinese tea. The club organizes tea tasting sessions and educational talks that are conducted in English, making them accessible to those who are still learning Mandarin but wish to delve into China's tea culture.
Wuhan International Friends
Type of Class(es): Social and Cultural Exchange Events
Location: Events held at various venues across Wuhan
Wuhan International Friends is not a class per se, but a social group that organizes regular events and activities for expats. These events often include cultural workshops, language exchanges, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for expats to learn, socialize, and integrate into the local community.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.