From April 22 to 29, 23 university teachers and students from France, Spain, Italy and other countries joined the 2026 "Perceive China, Charm of Zhejiang" program for an eight-day journey from modern Shanghai to the mountains of Jinyun, from poetic Lin’an to vibrant Deqing.

Shanghai: First Encounter with the Magic City — Perceiving a Real China Amid Modern Splendor and Classical Elegance

Arriving in Shanghai on April 22, the group visited the Bund, where the illuminated skyline gave first-time visitors a strikingly real first impression of China. On Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, they experienced the vitality and convenience of a Chinese commercial district, and the next morning they explored the classical Yu Garden, a pocket of ancient Jiangnan charm hidden among skyscrapers.

Jinyun: Huangdi’s Jinyun — Experiencing the Transformation of Rural China Amid Picturesque Landscapes

On April 24, in Jinyun, Lishui, "the earthly paradise of Huangdi," they toured the Xiandu Scenic Area and watched the solemn "Xuanyuan Zan" ritual at Huangdi’s Ancestral Temple. They also saw the Yandang Bookhouse, a disused quarry ingeniously converted into a reading space, explored the ancient Huiyang residences, visited the Lishui Shangeng agriculture park to witness China’s "new countryside" development, and tried calligraphy and painting.

Hangzhou: Impressions of Hangzhou — Sensing the Pulse of Development Amid Green Waters and Paradise on Earth

On April 26, the group reached Lin’an, Hangzhou, staying in mountain homestays and touring the picturesque Zhejiang A&F University campus, where Dean Zhao Youhua gave them the "First Lesson in China," introducing Zhejiang’s culture and China’s development. The next day they enjoyed the West Lake by day and Hefang Street by night, and were most impressed by how safe Chinese cities feel after dark.

Deqing: Witnessing China’s Strength in County Economies and a Fond Farewell

In Deqing, the Urban Planning Museum revealed the county’s sophisticated planning and gave them a new perspective on China’s economic foundations. A visit to the OSM Pearl Museum and a DIY painting activity rounded out their stay. At the farewell, Dean Zhao told them, “China’s door is always open. You are welcome back at any time,” as the 23 visitors headed home with China stories and new friendshipsready to serve as ambassadors showing the world a forward-moving China.