Fifteen international students from more than ten countries took part in a cultural exchange program on November 28, exploring how Guangzhou is weaving ecological values into its rapidly growing urban landscape.
The group, all studying at the School of International Education at Guangdong Polytechnic Normal University, visited the 32nd Guangzhou Garden Expo (Autumn Session) for a hands-on look at the city's approach to green development.
Their visit included tours of themed gardens and a pressed-flower workshop, offering an up-close view of Guangzhou's efforts to balance dense urbanization with environmental stewardship under its "Green and Beautiful Guangzhou" initiative.
A highlight for many participants was the International Master Gardens section, showcasing eight landscape works designed by artists from France, Italy, Canada, and other countries. Using plants, pathways, and sculptural elements, the installations explore different cultural understandings of the relationship between people and nature.
Russian student Kulikov Kirill said the collection left a strong impression. "It's striking to see horticultural works from so many countries in one place, each embedding its own ideas through flowers and structure," he said.
The group also visited gardens that connect ecological design with regional identity and shared memory. The National Games Garden recreates key moments from sporting history using topiary mascots and immersive displays. The Greater Bay Area Garden — jointly curated by Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Macao — highlights the cultural links that shape the region's development.
For several students, the visit offered new insight into how the city is attempting to integrate greenery into everyday life. Amal, a participant from Italy, said: "The skyscrapers are very modern, but you also see greenery everywhere. I'm impressed by how clearly Guangzhou is working toward becoming a more eco-friendly city."
Reporter | Liu Xiaodi
Video/Cover Photo | Publicity Office of Guangzhou Garden Expo
Video Script | Liu Xiaodi
Editor | Yuan Zixiang, Ou Xiaoming, James Campion, Shen He
