College for Overseas Education of Yangzhou University successfully carried out the "Short-Term Program for Sister Universities’ Students from East Asian and ASEAN Countries to Learn Chinese Language, Culture and History 2022" event. This two-week short-term program hosted 12 students from Fukuoka University and 31 students from different universities in Vietnam. Participating students were able to improve their Chinese language skills and experience Chinese traditional culture through immersive an online learning course, "language + culture".

The program was tailored to students' Chinese language level, and employed diverse virtual scenarios, such as virtual travel experiences, online YZU tour, the Shuangdong Historical and Cultural District, the China Grand Canal Museum, Geyuan Garden and Slender West Lake, as well as cultural experiences like Yangzhou morning tea ceremonies. Chinese language teaching was integrated into these virtual experiences and strengthened with online language practice. Lectures further enhanced the experience and learning of intangible Chinese heritage such as the Peking Opera, calligraphy, Chinese painting and tea culture. Engaging deeply in these colorful and entertaining cultural practices, enabled students to experience traditional Chinese culture and learn about the local customs of Yangzhou while learning the language.

At the graduation ceremony, the students showed Chinese language skills which acquired from this event, and expressed their appreciation of the program. They wish another “offline” opportunity to study in China in the future. The short exchange program opened a direct doorway to foreign students to learn Chinese and built a bridge of friendship between China and foreign countries. We look forward to more cooperative projects in the future to promote educational and cultural exchanges between China and abroad.