From July 2 to 3, the School of International Education, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology (ZUST), organised more than 50 international students to visit Jiaxing for the Dreaming-Zhejiang: Savouring Poetic Landscapes inbound-tour empowerment and experience programme for international students. Jointly hosted by Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, Zhejiang Provincial Department of Education and Zhejiang Radio & Television Group, this study-tour forms a key part of the university’s China-Perception practical education initiative. It aims to lead international students out of classrooms and immerse themselves in the real-world landscapes of Jiangnan culture.

At the opening ceremony, Zhang Huahui, Deputy Secretary (in charge of overall work) of the Direct-affiliated Party Branch of the School of International Education, presented commemorative university badges to Jiaxing Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism. Each badge carries the educational heritage of ZUST and conveys good wishes for China-foreign friendship and exchanges. Zhang noted that the university would keep developing distinctive study-tour routes for overseas students through the Dreaming-Zhejiang series, enabling international learners from across the globe to fully experience the unique charm of red-themed and poetic Jiaxing.

During the field trip, international students visited South Lake, Puyuan Ancient Town, Shendang Ancient Town and Fengyi Scenic Area. They traced red-culture heritage and immersed themselves in the graceful water-town scenery as well as the fresh rural vitality of beautiful villages. Participants also took part in hands-on activities, making zongzi (sticky-rice dumplings) and the intangible-cultural-heritage rolling lanterns. Through these crafts, they gained first-hand insight into the warmth and wisdom of traditional folk customs, turning textbook-depicted images of Jiangnan into vivid personal memories. Many students commented that the journey, integrating red-culture heritage, ancient-town charm and intangible-heritage inheritance, allowed them to deeply appreciate the profound roots of traditional Chinese culture and the distinctive humanistic spirit of Zhejiang. They expressed their willingness to share their experiences with family and friends overseas and act as young ambassadors for China-foreign cultural exchanges.

The School of International Education has long-devoted itself to practical education for international students and deepened university-local cooperation. By building diverse study-tour platforms based on cultural and tourism resources across Zhejiang, it guides international students to understand a true, multi-faceted and comprehensive China. The school strives to cultivate international youth with affection and understanding for China, injecting vibrant youthful momentum into mutual learning between Chinese and world civilization.

SOIE OF ZUST

July 6, 2026