Cultural immersion

In Shijiazhuang, the group explored some local traditions. At SFLS, for example, they tried paper-cutting, tai chi fan dances, and calligraphy.

"I messed up the strokes, but my partner patiently guided me," one of them laughed, holding up an ink-splattered Chinese character.

During a visit to the Hebei Museum in Shijiazhuang, Yan explained to her partner the symbolism behind Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) artifacts like the gold-threaded jade burial suit, while Larsen shared stories from his own background.

"For anyone who can come and have an experience like this, I will absolutely recommend it," Larsen said.

Even a visit to the zoo sparked interesting conversations. While observing pandas at the Shijiazhuang Zoo, Yan shared stories about this national treasure.

"Pandas symbolize peace and friendship in Chinese culture. China often sends them to other countries as a sign of goodwill. They're like friendly ambassadors," Yan explained.

She also spoke about Sun Wukong (Monkey King), a central character in Journey to the West, a classic Chinese novel, "He can do all kinds of amazing things and teaches us the power of perseverance and cleverness."

"This visit to the zoo is really eye-opening. I can learn so much about Chinese culture through these animals," Larsen said.

"The youth are the future inheritors of Sino-US friendships. By learning together, laughing together, and overcoming challenges side by side, they plant seeds of trust that will grow into towering trees of friendship," said Principal Pei.

Her words resonated during the tour's symbolic tree-planting ceremony in Zhengding, where students shoveled soil and planted saplings in an area labeled "China-US Friendship Youth Woods".

As the delegation departed for Shanghai on March 21, souvenirs tucked into luggage included Great Wall coins and museum badges. Yet the most enduring takeaways were intangible. "I've been taking a lot of pictures," Larsen said. "After we travel, I always like to sit with my family and friends back home and flip through them."

For Yan, the experience has enhanced her understanding of the US. "I've learned a lot about American history and culture, practiced my English skills, and formed deep friendships," she said.

"These kids are writing the next chapter of our friendship," Pei said.

Zhao Xinyu, Gao Xinran, Cao Xinyi, and Zhang Xin contributed to this story.