China Culture & Technology Discovery Programme

In partnerships with Top 100 Chinese universties

SEE THE REAL CHINA

Immerse yourself in real China through hands-on experiences—gain insights into its cultural roots and modern innovations, witness the coexistence of historic relics and cutting-edge cities, and explore China’s education system, innovative ecosystem, and technological applications.

ENGAGE WITH PEERS

Connect with Chinese peers from top universities! Engage in multifaceted interactions spanning academics, culture, daily life, and leisure—building cross-cultural friendships while exchanging ideas on education, technology, and social issues.

EXPLORE CAREER PATHS

Visit leading tech companies and institutions to uncover China’s entrepreneurial landscape and innovation models. Explore potential research avenues, and enrich your professional profile with valuable China-focused experience for future career endeavors.

About the Programme

Expected Date: The Easter 2026

Duration: 2 weeks

Location: Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, or Chengdu (TBD)
Target Group: International undergraduates

Academic Themes (offered by partner universities): Chinese Language, Chinese Culture, Chinese History, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, Communications, Business, and customized topics
Cultural Experience Themes: Tea Art, Calligraphy, Martial Arts, Traditional Opera, Incense Making, Seal Carving, Handicraft Production, Hanfu Experience

Accommodation: Single rooms at Chinese university dormitories and(or) twin rooms at nearby hotels.

Catering: Chinese university cafeterias and(or) local specialty restaurants (special dietary needs like vegan or halal can be arranged)
Programme Fees (including accommodation): Sponsored by Pilotium or partner universities. Participants only need to cover the costs of international airfare, visa fees (if applicable), and international travel insurance.

Get more information

Cities to Explore

Beijing 北京

As China’s capital, Beijing is an international metropolis that blends profound historical heritage with modern vitality. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, it boasts 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Palace Museum, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace.

Beijing is also China’s cultural, technological, and financial hub: Zhongguancun is home to a cluster of high-tech enterprises, while Financial Street oversees assets exceeding 120 trillion yuan. Additionally, the city abounds in cultural resources—featuring 126 national intangible cultural heritage items such as Peking Opera and Cloisonné, as well as iconic cultural landmarks like the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) and the 798 Art Zone.

Xi'an 西安

As the capital of Shaanxi Province, Xi’an served as the imperial capital for 13 dynasties in China. It was also the capital of the Qin Dynasty—the first unified imperial dynasty in Chinese history—home to the Terracotta Army, a world-renowned wonder.

Additionally, iconic attractions include the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, the Ancient City Wall of the Ming Dynasty, and the Forest of Steles Museum. Known as a "Carbohydrate Paradise," Xi’an offers hearty Guanzhong-style delicacies such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), Yangrou Paomo (lamb soup with steamed bread), and Youpo Noodles (spicy oil-splashed noodles). Meanwhile, the Datang Everbright City brings the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty to life through modern lighting and projection technologies, showcasing a contemporary Xi’an where ancient heritage meets modern vitality.

Shanghai 上海

As China’s hub for economy, finance, trade, shipping, and technological innovation, Shanghai boasts a privileged geographical location at the estuary of the Yangtze River. A global metropolis blending Eastern and Western cultures, it has forged a unique Shanghai-style culture (Haipai Culture). The skyscraper cluster in Lujiazui stands as the city’s iconic landmark, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Tower. The Bund’s "Gallery of World Architecture" contrasts sharply with the modern skyline of Lujiazui across the river, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of Shanghai’s history and modernity.

Renowned as a culinary paradise, Shanghai is famous for its local cuisine—characterized by rich sauces and mellow flavors—while also gathering global delicacies from around the world.

Chengdu 成都

As the birthplace of the ancient Shu civilization, Chengdu is also known by its elegant aliases "Jinguancheng" (City of Brocade) and "Rongcheng" (City of Hibiscus). Blessed with fertile land on the Chengdu Plain, thanks to the Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, it has long been hailed as the "Land of Abundance." With a time-honored history and splendid culture, sites like the Jinsha Ruins and Wuhou Shrine bear witness to Chengdu’s glorious past.

Renowned as a culinary capital, Chengdu is famous for world-famous delicacies such as hot pot, Chuanchuanxiang (spicy skewers), Longchaoshou (soup dumplings), and Dandan noodles. Additionally, Chengdu boasts a relaxed pace of life and a thriving teahouse culture—locals love to gather in teahouses to drink tea, chat, and play cards, savoring every leisurely moment.