The closing ceremony of the 2025 Joyful Journey to Literary Jiangsu program is held at Nantong University in Nantong, Jiangsu. [Photo/WeChat account: jssjyt]

The 2025 edition of the "Joyful Journey to Literary Jiangsu" program for international students concluded on Dec 19 in Nantong with a closing ceremony and an exhibition of program outcomes, highlighting three years of reading-driven cultural exchange and on-the-ground exploration across the province.

Launched in 2023 by the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education, the program combines reading with field visits, encouraging participants to engage with China's cultural heritage, social development and regional diversity in a more immersive way.

This year's closing ceremony opened with a performance of Ode to the Red Flag by an international symphony orchestra from Nantong University.

A video review followed, tracing the program's journey over the past three years. Through activities such as reading salons, micro-classes, literary lectures, nighttime reading events and outdoor book clubs, international students have explored Chinese culture.

In addition, nearly 1,600 international students from more than 120 countries have participated in the program's "Travel in Jiangsu" activities, visiting all 13 cities across the province. Their travels have taken them from historic neighborhoods and cultural landmarks to modern industrial parks and innovation hubs, offering firsthand insight into Jiangsu's development and everyday life.

The closing ceremony of the 2025 Joyful Journey to Literary Jiangsu program is held at Nantong University in Nantong, Jiangsu. [Photo/WeChat account: jssjyt]

A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of 40 international students as representatives of "Jiangsu Storytellers". Active in fields including academics, cultural exchange, communication and public service, these students have shared their personal experiences and observations with global audiences.

The event also featured an exhibition of creative outcomes from this year's program. More than 300 works by international students were showcased, spanning calligraphy, painting, photography, short videos, music, and dance.