A group of international students pose for a photo after participating in a culture activity in Rugao, Nantong, Jiangsu province. [Photo/Nantong University]

More than 50 international students who are studying agriculture in East China's Jiangsu province visited Rugao, a county-level city in Nantong, on March 23 to learn about the city's history, culture, and rural development.

The students, who are from six universities in Jiangsu, including Hohai University, Nanjing Normal University, Yangzhou University, and Jiangsu University, visited the Shuihui Garden, Guzhuang Ecological Park, and Huamingtang Innovative Miniature Bonsai Park in Rugao.

XuJingqiao, vice-mayor of Rugao, said during a meeting with the students that the city is famous for its history and culture, bonsai industry, and the longevity of its residents. She expressed hope that international students can work or start businesses in Rugao after they graduate.

Shi Yunyu, director of international cooperation and exchanges at the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education, said she hopes international students can make more friends and visit more places in Jiangsu to experience the province's culture while studying here. She also hopes that the students will share about their experiences in Jiangsu with families and friends to promote friendly exchanges between China and their home countries.