“A Taste of Jiangnan - Chinese Culinary Experience Camp”was recently successfully held at our university. Guided by the China Education Association for International Exchange and the Zhejiang Education Association for International Exchange, the event was hosted by TCZJ and attracted 15 young participants from multiple states across the United States.

During the two-week program, participants engaged in a diverse teaching model combining "theory and practice" with "technique and culture," systematically learning to prepare Jiangnan specialty dishes such as dumplings and Mapo Tofu, while personally experiencing intangible cultural heritage skills like making sugar-coated haws on a stick. Lindsay, a participant from the University of California, San Diego, expressed that through the learning process, she mastered the "secret" of heat control and deeply appreciated that Chinese cuisine not only emphasizes flavor but also respects ingredients and embodies the art of timing.

Beyond culinary skills, the participants experienced Hangzhou's urban charm from multiple perspectives through activities including walks around West Lake, explorations of Hefang Street, and visits to the Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum. Experiences with smart kitchen appliances at Robam's headquarters, observations of cold dish preparation at the Shangri-La Hotel, and participation in traditional cultural activities such as calligraphy and tea ceremony allowed participants to fully appreciate the profound depth of Chinese culture.

Ms. Maggie, the American team leader, praised the event for “not only teaching how to cook Chinese food but also opening a window to understanding Chinese culture.”Wang Fang, Deputy Party Secretary of the university, stated during the closing ceremony that this event concretely implemented the initiative to "invite 50,000 American youths to China for exchange programs," establishing an important platform for promoting Sino-American youth exchanges. The successful hosting of the experience camp has actively contributed to advancing Sino-American cultural exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations.