Two Unforgettable Weeks In China!
Students at the Great Wall of China
Sixteen University of Leeds students (aged 18–22) have just completed an inspiring and action‑packed “China Camp 2026”, delivered through a long‑standing partnership between the Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds (BCI) and the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) in Beijing. For the students, this was their first ever visit to China, offering an invaluable opportunity to experience the country’s culture, history and modern development first‑hand.
The two unforgettable weeks in Beijing and Xi’an — exploring iconic sites like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall. Alongside the sightseeing, students got stuck into a packed programme of classes and cultural experiences: practising Mandarin, learning about China’s dynasties and modern business landscape, and even trying traditional wellbeing activities such as Baduanjin and acupuncture. Food quickly became part of the adventure too, with many students tasting Beijing duck, hotpot and Xi’an’s famous street snacks for the very first time.
Students visit the Forbidden City
China Camps have been a core part of the BCI’s work since the Institute opened in 2012, with annual programmes running consistently apart from a brief pause during the Covid‑19 pandemic. The 2026 camp continued this tradition, combining academic learning with cultural immersion across two major cities.
Key Visits and Their Significance
Students had an amazing time across the two‑week programme, spending the first week in Beijing before travelling by high‑speed rail to Xi’an for a second week of cultural exploration. For many, it was their first opportunity to experience China’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks first‑hand. From imperial palaces and ancient city walls to world‑famous archaeological discoveries, each visit deepened their understanding of China’s rich heritage, modern identity and global significance.
- Forbidden City — A stunning imperial palace that brought China’s dynastic history to life.
- Temple of Heaven — A beautiful Ming‑era site showing how emperors prayed for good harvests.
- Great Wall — An unforgettable look at China’s ancient defences and engineering.
- Tiananmen Square — A vast public square that helped students understand modern Chinese history.
- Terracotta Warriors — A remarkable site revealing the scale and ambition of the Qin dynasty.
- Muslim Quarter (Xi’an) — A lively area full of food, culture and Silk Road heritage.
- Xi’an City Wall — One of the best‑preserved city walls in China, with great views of the old city layout.
Academic and Cultural Learning Across Both Cities
Across the two‑week programme, students took part in a rich mix of academic and cultural activities delivered in both Beijing and Xi’an. Their timetable blended classroom learning with hands‑on experiences, giving them a deeper understanding of China’s language, history, traditions and modern society. Highlights included:
- Chinese language, supporting the students Mandarin learning journey
- Doing Business in China, focusing on the country’s rapidly evolving online economy
- Chinese history, learning about the different imperial dynasties
- Baduanjin, introducing traditional exercise such as taichi and wellbeing practices
A student bravely volunteers to experience Cupping
- Traditional Chinese medicine, including demonstrations and experiences of cupping, acupuncture, moxibustion, stone scraping and massage
- Traditional Chinese embroidery, offering insight into the techniques and symbolism of this intricate art form
- Martial arts, providing a practical introduction to movement, discipline and cultural tradition
Students enjoy Hotpot
Alongside their academic programme, students explored a wide range of cultural sites in both cities. They also enjoyed discovering regional cuisine, with many trying dishes such as hotpot, roujiamo and Beijing duck for the first time. A few even sampled more adventurous options—including a fried spider—which quickly became one of the most talked‑about moments of the trip.
Globally Connected Students
Feedback from participants has been extremely positive. Students reported that the programme broadened their understanding of China, strengthened their interest in international business and culture, and helped them form lasting friendships within the group. Many also noted that the experience has motivated them to continue their Mandarin studies and consider future careers connected to China or the wider Asia‑Pacific region.
The group represented a wide range of degree programmes, all of which include Mandarin as part of their studies. Immersion in a Chinese‑speaking environment provided an ideal setting to build confidence, practise language skills and gain a clearer understanding of China’s global role. Many students commented that the experience strengthened their interest in China’s economy and helped them recognise how international exposure can enhance their future employment prospects.
The China Camp remains an important part of the BCI’s mission to promote cultural understanding and provide meaningful global experiences for University of Leeds students.
Explore More From the Trip
To see more from the trip, you can explore our daily photo highlights on Instagram, browse the full photo album on Facebook, and watch our YouTube video featuring student interviews about their time in China and what the experience meant to them.
Video Interview - Describe China in One Word!?
Day 1 - Opening Ceremony, Calligraphy & Chinese Classes
Day 2 - Forbidden City & Temple of Heaven
Day 4 - Chinese Baduanjin Exercise Class & We met the Hotel Robot
Day 5 - Hotpot, Qianmen Historic Street, Houhai Lake & Eating Spiders and Scorpions
Day 6 - The Great Wall of China
Day 7 - Tiananmen Square
Day 8 - Bullet train, Xi'an Drum Tower & A Giant Blue Panda
Day 9 - Incoming in next few days!
Day 10 - Incoming in next few days!
Day 11 - Incoming in next few days!
Day 12 - Incoming in next few days!
Day 13 - Incoming in next few days!
Day 14 - Incoming in next few days!
Full Photo Album - Here
Learn Chinese with the BCI?
Students and staff interested in developing their Mandarin skills or exploring Chinese culture further are encouraged to take part in BCI language courses and attend our year‑round programme of cultural events, workshops and talks. Details of upcoming opportunities can be found on the BCI website and social media channels.