Chinese and American youth experience Minnan culture and other forms of traditional culture. [Photo/WeChat account of XMFAO]
Twenty-seven youths, teachers, and friendly delegates from Baltimore, Maryland, and Orange County, California, the United States — sister cities of Xiamen — joined 17 Chinese youths in the "Friendships of Xiamen: U.S. Youth Ambassadors in Xiamen 2025" from July 17 to 22.
Over the course of six days, the Chinese and American participants lived and learned together, pairing up for hands-on activities to experience Xiamen's unique charm as both a natural heaven and a modern metropolis. This immersive program opened a journey of cultural discovery and friendship-building between the two nations.
During their visit, Chinese and American youth planted "Friendship Trees" in the core wetland conservation area, symbolizing the enduring bond between the two nations and their shared commitment to sustainable development.
As they attached name tags to the saplings, Melanie Chavez, a participant from Baltimore, remarked, "Xiamen's natural beauty is astounding — the city's greenery surpassed my expectations. "
The story of youth began on campus. At Xiamen University, Professor William N. Brown, an American expert and Fujian's first foreign permanent resident, talked about his enduring bond with China.
Then, at Xiamen Music School, Chinese students patiently guided their American peers in playing traditional instruments like the guzheng and pipa. Aaron Nava from Orange County remarked, "Though we speak different languages, music made us feel truly connected at heart."
During the colorful cultural immersion activities, Chinese and American youth experienced the extraordinary charm of Minnan culture and other forms of traditional culture.
They visited iconic landmarks such as the century-old Zhongshan Road and Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Under the guidance of intangible cultural heritage practitioners, the participants also gained hands-on experience in crafting traditional incense seals and making Xiamen's signature Baobing (Xiamen Spring Rolls).
Notably, Malaysian nationals now rank first among all foreign travelers entering through Xiamen ports during the same period.
Fujian's first one-stop comprehensive international service center was officially launched in the International Arrival Hall of Terminal 3 at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport on July 8.
