Teenagers from the United States take a group photo at the entrance of the Chinese Confucianism Museum in Quzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

Roughly 50 teenagers from the United States participated in a cultural exchange in Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, from June 16 to 18. This experience aimed to strengthen ties and foster lasting friendships between Chinese and US youth.

The journey began at the Family Temple of Confucius in Quzhou, where the students learned about the solemn rituals and ancient architecture that tell the story of Confucius' descendants. They explored the profound legacy of Quzhou's Southern Confucianism culture.

At the Chinese Confucianism Museum in Quzhou, digital exhibits brought ancient texts to life, allowing students to delve into Confucian philosophy. Elizabeth Ann Thorup from Herriman High School in Utah noted that she learned much more about Confucius' legacy in Quzhou through this journey.

A group of US students visit the Memorial Hall to the Doolittle Raid in Quzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

The teens also visited the Memorial Hall to the Doolittle Raid in Quzhou, learning about the historical bonds between China and the US forged during World War II. Exploring historical streets and local museums, they experienced Quzhou's vibrant intangible cultural heritage, including porcelain and intricate paper-cutting.

Additionally, their visit to Quzhou College provided insights into Chinese educational practices and broadened their global perspectives.