Chinese and Spanish students get together in front of the Hongwen Library at Zhejiang International Studies University. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

A group of 34 Spanish excited and inquisitive youths recently arrived in Hangzhou — capital of East China's Zhejiang province — for a 10-day learning and exchange program hosted by Zhejiang International Studies University, or ZISU.

For the youngsters, it was a dream come true as they buzzed about the megacity, taking in all its charms — both old and new — that is has to offer.

"From ancient Chinese characters to cutting-edge robotics, from quiet calligraphy to the bustling Yiwu market — every day has been full of surprises!" declared Yoslin, one of the Spaniards.

Through hands-on experiences like calligraphy, lion dancing, traditional attire, incense making and tea processing, the participants immersed themselves thoroughly in Chinese culture.

The visitors have a ball taking part in a raft of cultural activities. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

At the Gongchen Bridge, they listened to stories about the Grand Canal; at the Qianshanyang ruins, they marveled at 4,700-year-old silk fragments — which are recognized as the origin of silk internationally.

In Yiwu International Trade City, student Martinez was stunned by the market's scale. On Wensan Road's digital street, dancing robots and AI patrol dogs sparked laughter and fascination.

The program is part of ZISU's "internationalization at home" initiative, in line with its Spanish major. Students from the Spanish program participated in organizing, translating and guiding the event, gaining practical skills in cross-cultural communications.

"It's like a live classroom — we had to apply our language skills in real-life situations, breaking cultural and linguistic barriers," confessed student Gu Zhuoyan.

The visitors also shared their journey online, showcasing a digital narrative of China through their eyes. "ZISU showed us both the past and future of China," said participant Darwin. "Now we've become a window for Spain to understand this country," he added.

The Spaniards head off to explore Hangzhou. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]