海角黑料

Shanghai & Beijing | 11–23 April 2026

27/04/2026

Twenty participants - including two Nottingham Confucius Institute (NCI) students and eighteen 海角黑料 (UoN) students representing five nationalities -returned from an inspiring 12-day Spring Camp in China, which ran from 11 to 23 April. The programme offered a dynamic blend of language learning, cultural discovery and  exploration across two of China’s most vibrant cities: Shanghai and Beijing.

Launched in 2024, the Spring Camp initiative continues to grow in impact and popularity, further strengthening educational and cultural ties while offering a truly enriching international experience for UoN and NCI students.

From the outset, the group engaged in a stimulating academic and cultural programme at Fudan University. Participants took part in specially designed Mandarin lessons and interactive workshops, exploring topics such as traditional Chinese cooking, the artistry of dragon and lion dance, and the calm discipline of Tai Chi.

Beyond the classroom, students visited some of China’s most iconic landmarks. In Shanghai, highlights included trips to the Oriental Pearl Tower, the beautiful of Yu Garden and the historic waterfront of The Bund. In Beijing, the group explored world-famous sites such as the Great Wall of China, the majestic Forbidden City and the tranquil Summer Palace.

Food was another standout feature of the trip. From vibrant street food to traditional banquets, participants enjoyed a wide range of authentic Chinese dishes – with some describing the culinary experience as a highlight of the journey.

To capture their experiences, participants worked in pairs to produce daily vlogs documenting their activities and reflections. These were shared on NCI’s Instagram, offering a vivid, student-led glimpse into the programme. The Day 8 video—which has received the most likes so far—can be viewed .

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many described the Spring Camp as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” One student reflected: “Every day was full of interesting activities and delicious food. I also really loved interacting with locals during our free time - everyone I met was so friendly, and it was great to make new friends. I’ll definitely be coming back to China again soon.”

A common sentiment among the group was that the trip felt too short, with many wishing it could have lasted longer.

This successful programme was made possible through the invaluable support of our partners. We extend our sincere thanks to the Fudan University Confucius Institute Office for their exceptional organisation, dedication, and attention to detail, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all involved.