More than 160 teachers and students from 17 Chinese language schools across 11 countries are participating in a cultural tour in Jiangsu Province, which opened in Yangzhou City on July 25. 

The 11-day tour focuses on the 2,500-year-old Grand Canal, a vast waterway system that played fundamental roes in ancient China. Starting from Yangzhou, the birthplace of the waterway, participants will visit Nantong, Huai’an and Xuzhou to explore how the canal has shaped urban development and culture throughout history.  

The Grand Canal, as an important symbol of Chinese civilization, showcases the long history and splendid culture of the Chinese nation. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the successful inscription of the Grand Canal as a UNESCO world heritage site, with Yangzhou leading the application for this recognition and also spearheading the preservation.  

Zhao Chenjun, a student from Spain, said that this program will help participants gain a deeper understanding of their cultural roots and strengthen their sense of cultural identity. Zhao also views the program as an opportunity to acquire knowledge and forge friendships. 

Li Xin, principal of a Chinese language school in Milan, expressed her hope that students will immerse themselves in the tour, using their eyes, ears and hearts to fully appreciate the Grand Canal, and then bring their experiences back to school to share with more students.