Shandong Vocational College of Science and Technology

A two-week China-Europe "Study Abroad Program" exchange, themed "Encountering the Kite Capital," recently concluded at Shandong Vocational College of Science and Technology in Weifang, Shandong Province. The program brought seven Italian university students from Perugia to China for classes, intangible cultural heritage experiences, cultural activities and city tours.

During their stay, the students explored traditional Chinese culture and tried handicrafts such as tie-dyeing and leather carving. A highlight was trying on traditional Chinese clothing designed and made by students and faculty from the college's Department of Textile and Garment. Vanessa, Sara, Irene and others dressed in Hanfu and Qipao, experiencing traditional Chinese aesthetics firsthand.

Vanessa wore a Tang Dynasty-style wide-sleeved robe made of silk-like fabric and featuring a floral medallion pattern inspired by the murals of Dunhuang. Sara wore a Tang-style jacket-and-skirt ensemble in yellow-green and orange, inspired by Tang Sancai glazed pottery, with a high waist and flowing silhouette. Irene wore a fitted purple embroidered Qipao with delicate buttons and a refined neckline.

For Vanessa, wearing Hanfu for the first time was the most memorable part of the trip. Sara praised its exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage. The students said they would take their memories of Weifang home, share stories about China and promote friendship between China and Italy among young people.