The 2025 Shanghai Summer School, themed "From the Silk Road to the CIIE: China's Economy, Trade, and Culture", concluded on July 26 at Shanghai University of International Business and Economics.

Over the 20-day program, 19 participants from seven countries, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Japan, gained valuable insights into Chinese cultural diversity and modern development through immersive experiences. The curriculum featured six themed lectures, eight corporate visits, and eight cultural workshops.

Jointly organized by SUIBE and partner institutions, the lectures featured free trade zone regulations, WTO frameworks, and the century-long history of Shanghai's trade culture.

Industry visits focused on new energy vehicles, the platform economy, brand promotions, and digital marketing. Through analysis of flagship cases, students gained a deeper understanding of Shanghai's role in international communication.

By visiting the China International Import Expo venue at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, participants gained firsthand insights into the evolution of China's trade and economy firsthand.

Participants also experienced China's distinctive sports traditions through Chinese kung fu, martial arts, Baduanjin — a traditional form of breathing and stretching exercise — and traditional archery.

In the cultural sessions, they visited the CIIE Cultural Exhibition Hall and Hongqiao Import Commodity Exhibition and Trading Center to gain insights into modern China's development. They strolled along the Bund, admired the skyline from the Shanghai Tower, and explored Yuyuan Garden, deepening their appreciation of China's blend of modernity and tradition.

The program included trips to Tongli Ancient Town in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, and  Hengdian World Studio in Jinhua, Zhejiang province. Beyond touring classical gardens, water towns, and Chinese filming bases, participants experienced qipao, produced microfilms, and sampled local food.

Five themed workshops provided immersive cultural explorations. Participants practiced calligraphy, made silk sachets, and studied Chinese through interactive games.

At the Shanghai Museum, they joined a porcelain knowledge quiz to explore the maritime Silk Road trade culture. In the shadow puppetry workshop, after days of learning, creation, and rehearsal, participants presented performances in the local community.

In a Chinese tea culture class, Zhang Jianming, inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage Yuanbao tea, introduced the history, etiquette, and fundamentals of tea culture. Under his guidance, participants brewed and savored the unique aromas of Chinese tea.

The program also featured a "Citywalk", where participants explored Shanghai landmarks such as the Bund, Wukang Road, and Anfu Road, documenting the city's architectural heritage and urban charm.

As the summer program concluded, students not only embarked on a journey of knowledge but also engaged in cross-cultural dialogue that fostered mutual understanding.

Source: Shanghai University of International Business and Economics