International students visit Jinlong Lake Dangkou Park in Xuzhou, Jiangsu province. [Photo/Chongqing Morning Post]

International students from Mongolia, Laos, Vietnam, South Africa and Belarus embarked on an immersive journey through Xuzhou's cultural, ecological and technological highlights in the Xuzhou Economic Development Zone on Nov 28.

Their first stop, Thousand Mushroom Garden, offered a close look at advanced mushroom cultivation. In a 5G-enabled smart planting cabin, students marveled at how technology is driving modern agriculture. They observed varieties such as shaggy ink cap and silver ear, and even tried hands-on activities like breaking and repackaging mushroom spores.

A student pets a deer at Zhengben Farm. [Photo/Chongqing Morning Post]

At Zhengben Farm in Xuzhuang town, students enjoyed serene rural landscapes, winding walkways and flowing streams. Interacting with gentle farm animals and sampling fresh farm-to-table dishes, they appreciated the region's pastoral charm.

The tour continued to Pantao Mountain Scenic Area, where Tang-dynasty-style architecture meets contemporary markets. Students explored cultural shops, witnessed hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) performances, and enjoyed digital cultural experiences that showcase Xuzhou's creative blend of tradition and modernity.

At Jinlong Lake Dangkou Park, a marvel of ecological restoration, students admired the waterfalls, clear lakes and lush hills that have transformed a former quarry into a thriving natural space. "My hometown also has mining areas, but this level of ecological recovery is rare," said a student from Zambia.

Students learn to create their own handmade crafts. [Photo/Chongqing Morning Post]

The tour concluded at the Economic Development Zone Cultural Center and Library, where students viewed exhibitions showcasing intangible cultural heritage, including calligraphy, paper-cutting and textile arts. Guided by professional instructors, they created their own bamboo-weaving artworks, gaining first-hand insight into traditional crafts.