Hawaiian students and teachers experience Hainan culture

US youth delegation visits Yingya St Peter's School in Haikou, Hainan province on July 22. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A delegation of students and teachers from Hawaii is experiencing Hainan's culture, technology, and natural wonders during a 10-day exchange program, marking the 33rd anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Hawaii and Hainan.

The "2025 China-US (Hainan-Hawaii) Youth Cultural Exchange", which began July 20 in Haikou, aims to foster cross-Pacific understanding through shared experiences.

Centered on the theme featuring technology and culture, the program included visits to five Hainan cities and counties - Haikou, Wenchang, Qionghai, Lingshui and Sanya - where participants observed developments in the Hainan Free Trade Port.

The group has engaged with local schools and explored cultural sites such as the Hainan Provincial Center for Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection and the China (Hainan) Museum of the South China Sea. At the opening ceremony, Wang Lei, deputy director of the Hainan Provincial Foreign Affairs Office, emphasized the long-standing partnership: "Since establishing sister ties in 1992, Hainan and Hawaii have maintained close exchanges, achieving success in education, culture, and tourism."

The opening event featured gift exchanges and a cake-cutting ceremony. Hawaiian students quickly bonded with local peers through interactive activities. In traditional Chinese classics classes, they recited ancient texts together, while joint aircraft model projects encouraged teamwork. A baking session included Hawaiian students shaping star-themed bread as a symbol of friendship.

"I want to express my love for this land and for my Chinese friends through star-shaped bread," said Kaila Ling Di Amore, a student from Hawaii's Maryknoll School, who exchanged contact information with Hainan peers.

Teachers highlighted the trip's impact. Yang Hao, a Beijing native who works as a teacher at Maryknoll School, said her perception of Hainan had expanded beyond its famous coconut products: "Hainan's urban development is rapid, and its culture is increasingly diverse. This trip helps American students rediscover China."

Mei Yee Cheng of the Chinese Language Education Association of Hawaii found the youth inspiring: "Seeing these students, I can envision the future of Hainan and their potential as global citizens."

Students shared cultural insights. Alexander I-Shiang Krupitsky noted Hainan's unique blend of traditions: "Hainan and Hawaii are both tropical islands, but Hainan's ability to preserve its culture while embracing others impressed me."

Kirave Pak Qiu Liang emphasized the power of cultural exchange: "It allows open dialogue and mutual understanding."