A special event that showcased the history of ancient monuments and the renewed charm of old towns — was successfully concluded at Nantou Ancient City in Nanshan, Shenzhen.

When the poetry of grey bricks and tiles met the gaze of the world, when temporal imprints converged with diverse cultures, the international students embarked on their journey from the ancient city's majestic archway. At the South Gate Plaza, they listened to stories about the cultural roots of Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

Known as the "First Administrative Seat in Eastern Guangdong and the Origin of Hong Kong and Macao," Nantou Ancient City is the cradle of Shenzhen's history and culture. Guided by a docent, the students explored the main landmarks, learning about the origins of Shenzhen-Hong Kong culture and the city's evolution from the ancient Xin'an County to a modern international metropolis. Throughout the tour, they gained a deep appreciation for the enduring spirit that defines Shenzhen – a spirit of daring exploration, experimentation, openness, and inclusiveness.

At the Academy Square, where the air of ancient learning seems to transcend time, the international students delved into China's historical education system and the Confucian principle of "Reverence for Education and Teachers." This experience allowed them to personally feel the millennia-old tradition of honoring teachers and valuing education in Chinese culture.

At the Nantou 1820 Digital Exhibition Hall, modern technology breathes new life into history. Through immersive experiences, the international students gained a direct and tangible sense of the bustling market life and prosperous maritime trade that characterized the Lingnan region during the Qing Dynasty.

In the elegant mansion of a Confucian scholar, the international students learned about the distinctive features of Lingnan architecture, the life philosophy of "savoring fleeting beauty" (as in gathering morning blossoms at dusk), and the legacy of "masterful artistry" passed down through generations.

The "Shared Mountains and Seas" exhibition area clearly outlines the shared cultural roots between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, offering the international students a fresh perspective on the historical context of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Strolling along Xin'an County Street, they witnessed the interplay of traditional arcades and modern creative spaces, gaining a deep appreciation for Shenzhen's unique character—a city that excels at honoring tradition while embracing innovation.

In the bamboo garden next to the Dajiale Plaza, the students learned that the solid bamboo cultivated there originates from Vietnam. This specific detail struck a particular chord with the Vietnamese students, creating a profound sense of connection and shared cultural identity within the broader cross-cultural experience.

The visit to Nantou Ancient City went far beyond enriching the international students' campus life; it acted as a catalyst for cross-cultural comprehension. It offered a unique platform for deep cultural engagement, promoting outstanding Chinese traditions on the global stage through interactive exchange. As a millennium-old witness to Shenzhen's evolution, Nantou Ancient City served as the perfect backdrop—a dynamic window for cultural dialogue. Ultimately, this event successfully promoted culture through hands-on experience and built understanding through communication, highlighting the College of International Exchange's dedicated practice in international education and people-to-people exchange.