A group of students from the Master of International Business program at Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, recently returned from a two-day study tour to Suzhou, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology.

The study tour, organized by the program, provided an opportunity for the students to broaden their knowledge and skills, explore a new culture, and experience the booming industries of Suzhou.

The first day of the study tour began with a visit to Innovance Suzhou, a company specializing in new energy powertrain, power supply system, and automation solutions. The students were impressed by the advanced technology at Innovance, which gave them a glimpse into the future of sustainable transport empowered by artificial intelligence.

After a delicious lunch of special Suzhou dishes, such as Dong Po Rou, Braised Duck, and Fried Shelled Shrimps with Biluochun Tea, the students visited the Lingering Garden, one of the most renowned classical gardens in Suzhou, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The exquisite architectural and gardening art, along with the serene ambiance of the garden, left them spellbound.

The day concluded with a visit to the historic Hanshan Temple. As the students strolled through this Buddhist temple, the sounds of the famous bell ringing in the distance was a reminder of Zhang Ji’s poem, “A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge”. The peaceful atmosphere provided a spiritual retreat and a stark contrast to their bustling university life in Shanghai.

On the second day, the students visited the Suzhou Museum, designed by I. M. Pei, which houses more than 15,000 artifacts, ranging from unearthed cultural relics to ancient paintings and calligraphy. The museum visit not only enriched their knowledge of China’s historical heritage but also served as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Suzhou.

After lunch, the students explored the vibrant digital gaming industry of Suzhou with a visit to Xfun Games, an integrated digital entertainment enterprise. This visit provided them a real-world perspective on the booming gaming industry in China.

The study tour to Suzhou was a tremendous success, providing the students with a unique opportunity to experience the blend of tradition and innovation in Suzhou. It was an opportunity to expand their knowledge, explore a new culture, and make new friends. The students returned with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration, looking forward to more such learning opportunities.

The Antai College of Economics and Management is committed to providing its students with the best possible learning experiences and is proud to have organized this study tour to Suzhou.