Recently, the themed activity Experience China – Elegance of Qi Culture, Inheritance of Cuju, Exploration of Industries, Future of Science and Innovation, sponsored by the China Scholarship Council and undertaken by Zibo People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and Shandong University of Technology, was successfully held. Nearly 30 international students from 8 countries visited Linzi and Yiyuan in Zibo for an immersive experience of the profound Qi culture, modern industrial innovation and new look of urban-rural development.

On July 16, the group first arrived at Linzi Qi Culture Museum. At the Qi Culture and Cuju Experience Base, one of China’s first national social practice bases for Chinese and foreign teenagers built by Shandong University of Technology, international students viewed precious cultural relics up close, gained an in-depth understanding of the 800-year history of the State of Qi and the cultural heritage of the birthplace of Cuju, and experienced the time-honored Chinese cultural lineage. Later, the delegation visited Zibo Hefeng Seed Industry and Qifeng New Materials. They observed intelligent agricultural breeding technologies in experimental seed fields and learned about the world-leading full industrial chain of wear-resistant paper and decorative base paper in the special paper workshop, directly feeling the scientific and innovative strength of modern agriculture and high-end manufacturing.

On July 17, the team travelled to Yiyuan County. In Longziyu Village of Lucun Town, international students appreciated the natural scenery and folk customs of the mountain village. They also visited Tsingtao Brewery Shandong Lulansa Company to explore modern beer brewing processes relying on high-quality mountain spring water and experience the charm of integrated development of traditional brewing techniques and modern industry.

This two-day tour linked history and culture, modern agriculture, high-tech industries and rural ecology, presenting an interwoven picture of ancient and modern times. Centered on the inheritance of Qi culture, intangible heritage protection of Cuju, scientific and technological innovation of modern enterprises and revitalization of cultural tourism industry, the activity built an integrated national conditions education model of theory + practice + university-local coordination. It created a diverse platform for international students integrating cultural perception, practical exchange and vision expansion, showing a true and multi-dimensional China in all aspects.

After the activity, participating international students said the on-site visit broke their previous one-sided perceptions of China. They not only gained insight into profound traditional culture, but also witnessed the tremendous vitality brought by industrial upgrading and rural revitalization. The university will continue to launch diversified Experience China series activities to promote exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations.