By Zhang Ye, Shen Liang, and Ding Chuanbin

From 9th to 13th June, members of the first group of ‘Discover Jiangsu - American Youth Exchange Program’ —— 47 representatives of teachers and students from South Pasadena High School in California, USA started their Nantong trip.

Despite feeling a bit tired when arriving on the previous day, at about 8:30 am on 10th June, the American teachers and students went to the site of 2024 Nantong Yangtze River Delta Hao River Dragon Boat Invitational Race.

‘I am so excited today! Because I saw such an amazing dragon boat race with my friends!’ said Cleo, an American student.

South Pasadena High School of California, USA is located at Greater Los Angeles Area. It is a National Blue Ribbon School.

At Nantong Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture, the American teachers and students experienced the wonders of acupuncture, and learnt to make mosquito repellent sachets themselves; at Nantong Blue Calico Museum, they got to know the history of blue calico; at Nantong Nord Anglia International School, they made dumplings together...

‘There are many differences between American and Chinese culture. China has a profound and long history and culture. The buildings here are very beautiful and colourful, quite different from what I see in America. It’s really eye-opening.’ American student Cora said.

On the morning of 12th June, the American teachers and students walked along the Yangtze River, and took out mobile phones to capture the beautiful scenery of Nantong’s mountains and rivers.

‘Oh, my god!’ ‘Amazing!’ ‘You’re so lucky!’ Seeing Guangjiao Temple among the verdant green trees, the accompanying teacher Tom uttered a string of amazed exclamations. He said that seeing the Langshan Mountain so close to the Yangtze River and the Yangtze finless porpoises in the river, he felt so envious.

‘Los Angeles is relatively sunny and dry. Nantong is close to the Yangtze River and the sea. It has a humid climate and beautiful scenery, which is comfortable. It’s a blessing to live in such a city.’ said Carolyn, the leader of the exchange camp.

During the activity, the American teachers and students gave well-designed canvas bags to the Nantong students, to express sincere gratitude. ‘Thank you for such warm welcome and reception. We are very excited to be able to come to Nantong. Thank you very much.’ said Peitty, a leading teacher.