A fruit shop owner from Aksu in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Hangzhou in East China's Zhejiang province launched a cultural immersion program on June 19 as part of city's moves to support Aksu in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.

Ten families from the two cities were paired at the launch ceremony. These families will visit each other's cities every year and perform voluntary services or carry out cultural promotions.

Han Kai, who had taken part in public benefit activities in Aksu five times, said the experiences in Northwestern China have helped nurture his soul.

"We offered help to Aksu residents and the enriching local cultural climate where all ethnic groups are one big family has touched and inspired me," Han said.

Ren Kangping, a teacher from Caihe Middle School who has been a volunteer English teacher in Aksu for several years, said she misses the days interacting with local students and teachers.

"My nose often bled due to the dry weather and I was even frightened away by the sandstorms. As I gradually got accustomed to local conditions, I made friends with students and teachers and hoped to contribute more to Aksu's development," Ren said.

Located 4,600 kilometers apart, Hangzhou and Aksu established ties in 2010 to cooperate in fields including economy and trade, culture, tourism and education.