Taiwan dancer's dreams realized in Harbin studio

Liu No-yu coaches a student during a dance class at her studio in Harbin, Heilongjiang province. ZHOU HUIYING/CHINA DAILY

Despite it being over 3,000 kilometers from her hometown in Taiwan, Liu No-yu has decided to settle in Northeast China's Harbin, capital of Heilongjiang province, to pursue her dreams.

Though the city is mostly known for its ice and snow festival, the 26-year-old dance teacher has had anything but an icy reception.

"I've never felt such warmth in any other city before," Liu said while at her dance studio in the city. The creative space is equipped with the latest mod cons, including bright lights, stylish decorations and personalized touches.

Since opening the LoveDance studio on July 19, offering adult classes in Latin, jazz and hip-hop, a steady stream of students has made its way in.

Awareness of the warm and cozy environment, personalized service and professional teaching quickly spread via word of mouth and social media.

"So far, we have received over 40 students," said Liu. "I hope I can bring the service concept and approach from Taiwan for our students to experience.

"After class, students can come to the teacher for guidance at any time and we welcome them to practice their dancing in the studio whenever they want."

Born in Taichung, Taiwan, Liu left her hometown at the age of 18 to work on geological surveying in Chengdu, Sichuan province.

After spending years traversing mountains, measuring and organizing geological data, she resigned last winter and went to Sanya, Hainan province, for a vacation to recuperate.

While there, Liu met a young man from Harbin with whom she fell in love, and so, followed him north in March this year.

Liu quickly decided to stay in the city and start her own business.

"During my years in Chengdu, I studied dance in my spare time and hoped to get a job related to fashion or art," she said. "That's why I decided to open my own dance studio in Harbin.

"I've been to many cities in China, but Harbin is the most unique," she added. "I chose here not only because of its distinct four seasons and beautiful snow and ice, but more because of the warmth of the people in the city."