Led by Professor Selina Chan Ching, Academic Vice President of Hong Kong Shue Yan University (HKSYU); Dr Roy Ho Kin-Hon, Associate Head of Department of Business Administration; Dr Camellia Ng Ni-na, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology; and Dr Dina Ding Jing, Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism and Communication, a delegation of 25 students took part in the “Hangzhou Youth Exchange and Co-Creation Programme and Hong Kong Shue Yan University — Hangzhou Innovation and Vitality Theme Research and Learning Activities”. The initiative was sponsored by the Hangzhou Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the Hong Kong Hangzhou CPPCC Friendship Association.
The tour, held from 14 to 18 May 2026, introduced students to distinctive digital humanities landmarks, engaging them in cultural study and interactive exchanges while fostering stronger ties between young people from both cities.
The study tour showcased Hangzhou’s remarkable integration of ancient heritage and modern innovation. Students visited iconic historical landmarks and exquisite traditional artworks, thereby fully immersing themselves in the city’s profound classical culture and unique local aesthetics.
A major highlight was a high-level academic symposium with Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on game science technology, digital cultural creativity, and the ways modern technology can revitalise traditional culture, sparking valuable interdisciplinary and cross-city ideas.
The HKSYU delegation also visited local technology exhibition halls and leading digital enterprises. Experiencing cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies first-hand, students gained deeper insights into Hangzhou’s strong technological competitiveness and the dynamic growth of its digital cultural and creative economy.
This Hangzhou exchange was an incredibly meaningful experience. Firstly, I witnessed the city’s astonishing growth, driven by technological innovation, thriving industries, and strong economic momentum. Secondly, it helped me develop clearer plans for my studies and future career. Visiting a local technology company showed me how technology can bring traditional culture to life. Visitors can create personalised ancient-style avatars using their facial features, as if interacting with ancient poets across thousands of years. My visit to a media company also made me realise how my major can be applied in the gaming, film production, and cultural IP industries——Arts, Culture and Technology (ACT) programme student Cheng Ka-lee
Meeting students from Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics effectively bridged the gap between young people in Hong Kong and Hangzhou. We shared diverse perspectives and forged meaningful friendships, while innovation workshops and short-video creation activities enhanced our creativity and teamwork skills. Throughout this rewarding journey, we experienced the charm of traditional culture and the vigour of the digital economy. By broadening our global perspective, we gained a deeper appreciation of the value of cross-city youth collaboration. Moving forward, we will cherish these valuable experiences, serve as bridges of communication between the two regions, and contribute our youthful energy to their integrated development——English Language and Literature student Li Xin-yan
Hangzhou is an exceptionally beautiful city filled with natural charm. Lush greenery can be found throughout the city, while the Liuhe Pagoda, standing beside the river, forms a picturesque landmark with unique artistic appeal. What impressed me most was how Hangzhou successfully balances its rich cultural heritage with rapid modern development. Historic buildings and old streets preserve a timeless cultural atmosphere, while urban infrastructure, emerging industries, and modern facilities continue to develop at an incredible pace——Media Design and Immersive Technology programme student Ru Li-tong
