DENO International Education's 2025 U.S.-China Cultural Exchange Program Recap

Zhenjiang: Tradition Unveiled 

1. Where Craft Meets Literature  

In March, a group of students and educators from Utah embarked on a week-long cultural journey across China, beginning in Zhenjiang—the "Vinegar Capital." At the China Vinegar Culture Museum, they observed ancient fermentation techniques. Later, the **Pearl S. Buck Memorial Hall** offered insights into the Nobel laureate’s childhood in Zhenjiang and her literary works bridging Chinese rural life to global audiences.  

2. Youth Connections Through Heritage  

At Jiangnan School, Sino-U.S. bonds flourished during a cultural exchange titled "Shared Youth, Shared Heritage." Chinese students performed traditional music and dance, while American participants immersed in calligraphy, ink painting, and sugar art workshops. Vice Principal Chen Jie highlighted how intangible cultural heritage fosters mutual understanding. Officials from Jiangsu and Zhenjiang education bureaus attended the event.  

(Photos: U.S. students explore vinegar-making traditions; Pearl S. Buck Memorial visit; Cultural exchange at Jiangnan School)  

Nanjing: Legacy of Six Dynasties 

1. A Glimpse into History  

A 30-minute high-speed rail "instant city hop" to Nanjing—the ancient capital—left the group marveling at China’s infrastructure. They visited the **Zifeng Tower** (a landmark super-skyscraper), paid respects at the  Nanjing Anti-Japanese Aviation Martyrs Memorial**, and admired panoramic views from **Yuejiang Tower.  

2. Brushstrokes and Tai Chi  

At Ninghai High School, cross-cultural dialogues unfolded through ink painting and Tai Chi sessions. Chinese students guided their American peers in mastering brushwork’s subtlety and Tai Chi’s philosophy of balance. The fusion of Eastern aesthetics and Western perspectives sparked heartfelt connections.  

(Photos: High-speed rail journey; Nanjing landmark tours; Cultural activities at Ninghai High School)  

---

Shanghai: Metropolis of Contrasts  

1. The Bund’s Timeless Allure

In Shanghai, the group explored **The Bund**, where futuristic Lujiazui skyscrapers juxtapose colonial-era architecture. The city’s role as a gateway of China’s reform and opening-up left a lasting impression.  

2. Lacquer Art Bridges Cultures  

At **Shanghai Gezhi Junior High**, students co-created lacquer fans—a traditional craft—blending colors and creativity. One-on-one dialogues deepened mutual appreciation, forging trans-Pacific friendships.  

(Photos: Iconic Bund visit; Lacquer fan workshop at Gezhi Junior High) 

---

Epilogue 

From Zhenjiang’s heritage to Nanjing’s history and Shanghai’s modernity, this 2025 DENO program transcended cultural exploration, becoming a dialogue of youth and dreams. Through classroom exchanges and landmark visits, participants witnessed China’s multifaceted identity.  

DENO International Education remains committed to building global bridges, empowering youth to connect, understand, and grow together.  

(All images courtesy of DENO International Education)