The air crackled with excitement as students from eight countries, including Laos, Sri Lanka, Tonga, and Namibia, gathered in Shanghai on Jan 17 for a special celebration marking the Chinese New Year.

Organized by the Shanghai People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the event aimed to provide a platform for international students to experience the rich culture of their host country.

From the bustling Bund to the festive Yuyuan Garden, the students embarked on a journey of cultural immersion, forging friendships and creating lasting memories along the way.

"It's a very colorful event for the Chinese people," said Hirantha Athulathmudali, a Sri Lankan student at Shanghai University. "They dress up, prepare special food, and celebrate with great enthusiasm. It's a very special time for them."

The trip began with a visit to the Bund History Memorial, where students traced the evolution of Shanghai from a modest fishing village to a global metropolis. Photographs, artifacts, and historical accounts brought to life the city's dramatic transformation over the past 150 years, leaving a deep impression on the students.

"People really like to visit Shanghai. I can see why, it's a very beautiful city," said Athulathmudali.

One highlight of the event was the cultural exchange program, in which students showcased their talents, transporting the audience to their respective homelands through traditional dances and songs.

Susi Tonga, a student from Tonga, captivated with her energetic performance of a traditional Tongan dance, expressing her hopes and dreams for the future.

But it was the hands-on experiences that truly resonated. Learning the art of dumpling making alongside local residents brought about laughter and a shared sense of accomplishment.

"This is my first time making dumplings," exclaimed the Tongan student, her eyes gleaming with pride. "I did great!"

The opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds was a particularly enriching experience for the students.

"Shanghai is like a melting pot," said Athulathmudali. "If you go to the Bund or downtown Shanghai, you can meet people from every part of China and every part of the world."

The event concluded with a visit to the Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival, featuring a festive display of lights and traditional Chinese decorations.

"I think all around the world, people should visit China and experience the real China," Athulathmudali urged. "Real China is something very different from what you see in the media. It's very friendly, very festive."