A group of expats embarked on a visit to Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province on June 28 to learn about the city's legislative system and culture. [Photo/hz66.com]

A group of expats embarked on a visit to Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province on June 28 to learn about the city's legislative system and culture.

The group consisted of 16 people from 11 countries including the United States, Russia and South Africa.

During the visit, the Standing Committee of the Huzhou Municipal People's Congress demonstrated to the expats how voting on major matters takes place.

The expats were also invited to view the Lougang irrigation and drainage system, which is considered to be a 2-millennium-old engineering marvel, as well as experience traditional crafts such as woodblock printing, paper cutting and rice cakes.

George Russell from the US said that he now better understands the city's legislature and that he was impressed by the Lougang irrigation and drainage system, which he believes has been pivotal to the city's long-term prosperity.

"I have never been to these places before," said Janiyarova Viktoriya, who's from Russia. "It is very interesting to explore the history and culture of Huzhou this way."

South African Stephanus Fourie also expressed his gratitude to the local government for organizing the event.

"Thank you for opening a 'door' for expats. The door in fact has been opened for many years. I hope one day you will visit our country and we will open a 'door' for you," said Fourie.

The expats learn to make paper-cut works in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, on June 28. [Photo/hz66.com]