Elias purchases 17 pairs of Tianzhu chopsticks. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

A group of German students immersed themselves in Hangzhou's cultural and commercial charm during a student-run trade festival held at Hangzhou Kaiyuan Business Vocational School on April 10.

The visiting delegation, consisting of more than 10 students from a vocational school in Emmendingen, Baden-Wurttemberg, joined the festival after several days of study and exchange at the same school with their Chinese counterparts. 

Guided by students from the school's cross-border e-commerce program, the visitors explored the event, which is entirely organized and operated by students — from product sourcing and marketing to sales and livestreaming.

Stalls featuring intangible cultural heritage products proved especially popular among the German guests. They admired West Lake silk umbrellas, sampled the aroma of Longjing tea, and were particularly fascinated by handcrafted Tianzhu chopsticks.

One student, Elias, made headlines by purchasing 17 pairs of Tianzhu chopsticks as gifts for family and friends who are enthusiastic about Chinese culture. "They all love China and know how to use chopsticks," he said, noting that the natural materials and durability of the chopsticks added to their appeal.

Prior to the festival, the study group visited a Tianzhu chopsticks manufacturer, experienced tai chi, and explored humanoid robotics, making the trade festival a memorable highlight of their cultural exchange.

German students take photos with a local cosplayer. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_7cfe2fccfa07]