International students from Yancheng Polytechnic College learn Chinese calligraphy. [Photo/WeChat account: YNTV-NEWS]

"How amazing!" said Wang Luosu from Turkmenistan, his eyes lighting up as he watched an ancient painting come to life with digital technology.

Inside the Digital Audio-Visual DreamWorks in Yannan High-Tech Zone, he appeared to travel back in time, immersed in a vivid recreation of an ancient Yancheng street scene — with bustling vendors, playful children, and lantern-lined shops, all brought to life in striking detail.

Nearby, international students wearing VR headsets embarked on a multi-user motion-capture adventure, exploring immersive virtual worlds where scenes shifted with the touch of a button.

The experience was part of a study tour for Spring Festival, jointly organized by Yannan High-Tech Zone and Yancheng Polytechnic College.

Following their exploration of technology, students participated in a cultural workshop on Spring Festival traditions. Instructors used engaging storytelling and hands-on displays to explain the holiday's customs and symbolism. Golden, crispy twisted sugar pastries, a local specialty, quickly became popular. "The pastry is delicious, and the Spring Festival stories are fascinating. I really like it," Lina said.

A student wears VR glasses to explore virtual worlds. [Photo/WeChat account: YNTV-NEWS]

The celebration persisted at the calligraphy station. As the paper was laid out and ink was readied, students carefully practiced holding brushes under the guidance of a teacher. "Writing Spring Festival couplets is hard, but it's fun," said Wu Minna from Tajikistan, who was trying her hand at couplets for the second time.