This summer, a group of students from seven different U.S. states embarked on a study tour in China, visiting cities like Beijing, Shijiazhuang, Fuzhou, Hangzhou, and Shanghai. Invited by China Daily reporters, some of the students documented their experiences, capturing the best moments and interactions with their Chinese peers on camera.

Throughout the trip, the students participated in a variety of cultural activities—from cycling and playing table tennis to learning traditional Chinese arts like hulusi (a Chinese musical instrument) and paper-cutting. These shared experiences brought the two groups of youths together, building instant friendships despite differences in culture and background.

Several U.S. students reflected on how much they loved the trip and discovered numerous similarities with their Chinese peers. Despite cultural differences, they noted that young people everywhere share similar hopes and dreams for the future.

Watch the video to see their joyful journey in China.