The activity featured six themed routes for immersive exploration across urban Hangzhou:  Canal Heritage & Intangible Cultural Heritage Craftsmanship, Southern Song Imperial City & Imperial Street Exploration, Wu-Yue Origin & Ink Charm of Solitary Hill, Urban Culture & Celebrity Elegance, Jiangnan Garden Charm & Landscape Symbiosis, Urban Vein Exploration & Local Chronicles Search.

From the millennium-old grain transport of the Grand Canal to the bustling street life of Southern Song Imperial Street; from the elegant stone inscriptions of Xiling Seal Art Society to the vibrant atmosphere of old alley residences—Chinese and foreign youths walked, observed, asked questions, and took notes. They closely touched Hangzhou’s historical texture and cultural roots, deepening their understanding and recognition of Jiangnan culture through interactive experiences.

This "A Tale of Two Cities" social practice activity built a high-quality platform for communication, dialogue, and cultural mutual learning among Chinese and foreign youths. It not only allowed international students to understand Hangzhou and perceive China but also promoted in-depth exchanges between universities and among students. During the activity, our international students paired up with peers from the other two universities, visiting ZJU’s History Corridor to experience the prestige of a century-old institution, wandering through Hangzhou’s streets to embrace Jiangnan’s cultural lineage, understanding Hangzhou’s historical depth and innovative vitality through immersive experiences, and enhancing their comprehension and recognition of China through exchanges and mutual learning.

On the morning of April 24, the grand opening ceremony was held at ZJU’s Zijingang Campus. Chen Nanfei, Vice Dean of the School of International Education at ZJU, attended and delivered an opening speech. Vice Dean Chen warmly welcomed teachers and students from NJU and HDU, elaborated on Hangzhou’s profound historical and cultural heritage and unique humanistic charm, and encouraged all participants to strengthen friendships, broaden horizons, enjoy the Hangzhou trip to the fullest, and gain a fulfilling and unforgettable experience.

Zhang Bin, Deputy Director of the Public Teaching Department at NJU’s College for Overseas Education, opened his address with two lines by Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi: At sunrise, river flowers outshine fire; in spring, river waters turn blue as indigo and I seek osmanthus blossoms by the moon in the mountain temple; I watch the tide rise while reclining in the prefecture pavilion. From Jiangnan’s spring scenery to Hangzhou’s local features, he explained the background, significance, safety guidelines, and full-day itinerary of the activity, urging students to trace Jiangnan’s roots and dialogue for the future.

Subsequently, students from the three universities grouped up to tour ZJU’s campus and its Museum of Art and Archaeology.

At Zijingang Campus, students firsthand experienced the profound humanistic heritage and vibrant innovative vitality of the century-old university. At the Museum of Art and Archaeology, they viewed precious artifacts up close, marveling at the timeless allure and unique value of Chinese civilization. The activity further strengthened exchanges among students from the three universities and broadened their cultural horizons. In the afternoon, students embarked on cultural exploration via the six themed routes—relevant outcomes to be announced soon.

On the evening of April 24, all teachers and students gathered at HDU’s Xiasha Campus for the Dreaming in Zhejiang, Splendor on the Clouds Chinese Gala Performance. Overseas students from multiple Zhejiang universities presented wonderful shows rich with Chinese characteristics. Teachers and students deeply appreciated the charm of Chinese culture through songs, dances, and interactions, with the venue filled with laughter and joy as youthful friendships flourished.

On the morning of April 25, Chinese and foreign teachers and students visited Zhongce Rubber to gain firsthand insights into Hangzhou’s innovative manufacturing capabilities. They then proceeded to the China Cooperation Center for Special Economic Zones of BRICS Countries (BSCC). Proposed by President Xi Jinping during the 16th BRICS Summit, the center was officially inaugurated in Qiantang District, Hangzhou, in March 2025. Participants learned about this international cooperation platform encompassing free economic zones, industrial parks, and other forms, witnessing China’s new landscape of opening-up in economic and trade fields.