Culture+ "Twin Cities" Program Successfully Held
Twin Cities:Tracing Jiangnan’s Cultural Roots, Envisioning a Shared FutureOn April 24, the “Twin Cities: Tracing Jiangnan’s Cultural Roots, Envisioning a Shared Future” social practice program for Chinese and international students was successfully held in Hangzhou. Jointly organized by Zhejiang University, Nanjing University, and Hangzhou Dianzi University, the event brought together more than 20 international students from 13 countries at ZJU, alongside over 30 Chinese and international students from partner universities. Together, they explored the century-old Zhejiang University, strolled through the streets and alleys of Hangzhou, and appreciated the richness of Chinese arts. Through immersive cultural experiences, participants gained insight into Hangzhou’s historical heritage and urban vitality, while fostering cross-cultural friendships through exchange.Spring Breezes over Zijingang, Jiangnan’s Culture Links Two CitiesThe opening ceremony was held at Zijingang Campus, Zhejiang University. Chen Nanfei, Deputy Dean of the International College, Zhejiang University, warmly welcomed teachers and students from Nanjing University and Hangzhou Dianzi University, encouraging young people from China and around the world to broaden their horizons through exchange and build friendships through mutual understanding. Zhang Bin, Deputy Director of the Public Program Teaching Department at the Institute for International Students, Nanjing University, opened his remarks with a verse by Bai Juyi (a famous poet of the Tang Dynasty), and introduced the background and agenda in detail, inspiring students to trace Jiangnan’s cultural roots and envision a shared future.Experiencing University Heritage, Appreciating the Charm of CivilizationAfter the opening ceremony, Chinese and international students toured Zijingang Campus and visited the Art and Archaeology Museum. Walking through the campus, they experienced the profound humanistic heritage and innovative spirit of Zhejiang University. At the museum, they explored the integration of history and art, gaining a deeper appreciation of the enduring charm and unique value of Chinese civilization, while further strengthening inter-university exchanges and broadening their cultural perspectives.In the afternoon, all participants were divided into six groups to explore Hangzhou along six themed routes, including Canal Heritage, Southern Song Imperial City, Origins of Wuyue Culture, Urban Cultural Life, Jiangnan Garden Aesthetics, and Historical Urban Traces. Moving through ancient streets, intangible cultural heritage venues, and classical gardens, students engaged in an immersive dialogue with Hangzhou’s millennia-old cultural legacy.This program, built upon culture as a bridge and youth as a bond, enabled Chinese and international students to experience Hangzhou and understand Jiangnan through exploration. It was both a vivid practical lesson on national conditions and a cross-cultural journey for youth, exemplifying inter-university collaboration and global youth engagement. Zhejiang University will continue to uphold an open and inclusive vision, providing platforms for exchange and mutual learning among Chinese and international youth, encouraging them to understand China through practice and grow together. We hope they will serve as young ambassadors of cultural exchange, tell China’s stories well, and spread the voice of youth.Text: Student Affairs OfficePic: ICSNMC
2026-05-07
