Sajjad Ali, a student from Islamabad, Pakistan, studying at Renmin University of China, stood captivated at the Meicun Erhu Industrial Park in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, as melodies from the traditional Chinese two-stringed instrument filled the air.

He was particularly drawn to the erhu's "unique sound" and intrigued by both its similarities and differences with Western string instruments like the violin. After learning about the erhu's long history and intricate craftsmanship, Ali said he also admired how well this ancient art has been passed down through generations.

"China has a remarkable ability to preserve its traditional practices. It's a great experience to be here and see all of this," he said.

Ali was among 17 young guests from 12 countries who took part in a two-day cultural and development tour in Wuxi on Oct 27 and 28.

The event, "A Glimpse into Xinwu by Global Gen Z Representatives", was co-hosted by China Daily's 21st Century English Education Media and the Party Working Committee of Wuxi National Hi-Tech District (Xinwu District Committee).

It aimed to showcase Wuxi's blend of traditional Wu culture and modern innovation through the eyes of international youth.

Wu culture has deep roots, originating in a region of Southeast China that includes parts of present-day Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. At the Hongshan Site Museum, the visitors explored relics of the ancient Wu civilization.

Imad Akharraz, a Moroccan mechatronics student at Shanghai University (SHU), said he was impressed by the museum's use of advanced technologies to bring history to life.

"The holograms make me feel like I am traveling through time to ancient history, seeing what's going on and feeling the emotion," he said.

On the evening of Oct 27, the group toured Wuxi's Meili Ancient Town by boat. As they passed lantern-lit streets and centuries-old buildings, the students said they felt transported to another era.

Like Ali, Mae Leigh from the United States and currently pursuing her master's degree at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, also marveled at China's achievements in preserving its cultural heritage. She noted that while the US, as a relatively young nation, has limited historical depth, China dedicates great effort to protecting its legacy.

"I don't think any other country goes to the same lengths to do it," she said. "China works hard to ensure that young people and foreigners like us truly understand its culture and appreciate its beauty."

Olusola-Niyi Mojolaoluwa, a schoolmate of Leigh's from the UK, shared a similar view. "I think China is one of the very few cultures and histories that you still hear about extensively," she said.

She pointed out that in the UK, only those with a keen interest in history tend to learn about the country's traditional architecture or clothing styles. In China, however, such cultural elements appear to be woven into everyday life.

Modern drive

The group also visited the Wuxi Beauty and Health Industrial Park, where they explored the Jiangnan Meiwan Research Institute and Dexter, a domestic skincare brand.

Chayma Elyajizi, a Moroccan MBA student at SHU, praised China's research-driven approach to beauty products and highlighted the collaboration among universities, enterprises, and the government.

She also expressed her desire to help promote Chinese brands globally. About two months ago, she began using several Chinese skincare products and found them very effective.

"I even ran some tests here at the industrial park," she said with a laugh. "My real age is 30, but my skin age is 25.So maybe with more Chinese products, I can hope to have the skin age of a 20-year-old."

Wuxi's cutting-edge logistics technologies also made a strong impression. At the FTI Park of SF Express — one of China's leading logistics companies — the group observed automated sorting systems and AI-powered delivery networks in action.

Throughout the trip, the young visitors emphasized the value of cultural exchange in today's interconnected world, noting Wuxi's role as both a cultural and technological bridge between China and the rest of the world.

"Knowing our roots while connecting with other cultures — this is what makes cultural exchange so important," said Mojolaoluwa.

guiqian@i21st.cn