Shanghai airport lays on Spring Festival welcome for world travelers

"The atmosphere here is cool and nice. People are welcoming. I like the calligraphy and the wishes are good," said German traveler Jonas Aufmkolk.

For many, it was an engaging first encounter with deep-rooted traditions.

"It's really great that, as a foreigner coming to China, maybe for the first time, you can really get involved in some very traditional Chinese things like the calligraphy," said Nicolas Pau from Belgium.

The festive immersion extended beyond ink and brush, with travelers also learning Chinese New Year greetings in the local Shanghai dialect, laughing as they exchanged wishes for prosperity and happiness.

Pau shared his personalized blessing: "I wish everybody a very happy Chinese New Year with good health, long life and lots of meat."