Overseas youth learn to make wontons. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

This summer, Wenzhou has welcomed over 700 overseas Chinese youth from more than 80 countries, including the United States, France, and Hungary. They returned to their ancestral home to learn Chinese, experience the local culture, and explore the city. For many, it was an intriguing mix of familiarity and novelty.

At Wenzhou Bailu Foreign Language School, 93 overseas students aged seven to 18 participated in a summer camp. They engaged in various activities, such as calligraphy, museum visits, and traditional Chinese opera. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they shared a common heritage and a basic understanding of Mandarin.

The camps, organized by the Wenzhou Overseas Chinese Federation and local districts, focused on cultural immersion. Activities included learning Chinese, making handicrafts, and cultural exchanges.

The camps lasted from 14 to over 20 days, allowing families to choose based on their own schedules.

Food was a highlight for many. French participant Xu Lele enjoyed Yongjia wheat cakes, while Greek participant Wu Zihao praised the fish balls. Italian participant Ou Sufei fondly remembered wontons from family stories.

These experiences transformed participants' understanding of Wenzhou from parental tales to personal memories and strengthened their connection to their cultural roots, fostering a deeper appreciation for their ancestral home.