A student and teacher delegation from Josiah Quincy Upper School visits Hangzhou. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

A student and teacher delegation from Josiah Quincy Upper School visited Hangzhou from May 19 to 27 for a cultural and educational exchange program, further strengthening ties between Hangzhou and its sister city Boston, which established friendly relations in 1982.

During the visit, the delegation explored traditional Chinese culture through hands-on experiences at the China Umbrella Museum, where students learned about the craftsmanship of West Lake silk umbrellas, a national intangible cultural heritage item.

At the ongoing China International Tea Expo and Longwu tea town, the group sampled Chinese tea culture and modern tea technologies while learning why Hangzhou is known as a "City of Tea".

The delegation also visited Zhejiang University City College to experience laser cutting and 3D printing technologies, gaining insights into Hangzhou's innovation and interdisciplinary education programs.

At the China Animation Museum, students explored the history of Chinese animation and immersive digital exhibitions ahead of the upcoming China International Cartoon and Animation Festival.

The delegation also visited rural areas in Jiande, cultural venues across Hangzhou, and innovation hubs in Future Sci-Tech City, experiencing both the city's fascinating history and modern vitality.

James Colimon, director of Global Affairs and Protocol for the Boston city government, said youth and educational exchanges are among the most meaningful ways to strengthen long-term friendship and global understanding between Boston and Hangzhou.

American students learn how to make silk umbrellas. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]