A group of Vietnamese youths had an opportunity to experience the rich, colorful and diverse Lingnan culture of southern China during a recent "Red Study Tour" camp in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province.

The event, organized by the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League of China, brought together 200 Vietnamese young people from all walks of life, including young civil servants, communist youth league cadres, journalists, university students, young pioneers and internet influencers.

From Saturday to Monday, participants visited a number of significant locations in Guangzhou, including the former site of the Vietnamese youth revolutionary comrades association, the tomb of martyr Pham Hong Thai, the memorial hall of the First National Congress of the Socialist Youth League of China, the memorial hall of Whampoa Military Academy, Yongqing Fang, century-old alleyways, Guangzhou Metro Group and the Fushan circular economy industrial park, as well as major technical companies and scenic spots.

During the visit, they explored the revolutionary friendship between pioneers from China and Vietnam who joined hands in the pursuit of national salvation, gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices behind national development and the value of bilateral friendship and cooperation.

The Vietnamese youths also held three symposiums and participated in a joint painting activity with Chinese peers to deepen exchanges and mutual understanding.

"The splendid Lingnan culture is highly artistic and features fascinating cultural integration," said Huynh Thi Thanh Thuy, who was crowned Miss International 2024 and Miss Vietnam 2022.

"I hope young people from both countries can work together to rejuvenate cultural heritage on digital platforms," she said."For instance, music cooperation projects that blend traditional Lingnan and Vietnamese musical instruments using modern harmony and orchestration techniques, or integrating the image of the Vietnamese ao dai into the architectural space of Guangzhou's Xiguan mansions.

"This is how heritage can truly come alive in the hearts of Generation Z," she added.

Tran Tuan Hiep, a Tuong — Vietnamese traditional form of theater — performer, noted that both Vietnam and China have long-standing, rich and distinctive cultures, adding that Peking Opera is regarded as a national symbol of China.

"Having had the opportunity to visit China in person, I am deeply impressed by your country's outstanding efforts in preserving traditional culture," he said. "I hope there will be more opportunities for exchanges in the future so that we can learn from each other and jointly protect and develop the traditional arts and cultures of our two countries."

Bui Thi Thu Ha, a Vietnamese children's book writer, said cultural and artistic exchanges serve as an important bridge, helping people from both countries better understand each other's character, traditions and values.

"Through artistic performances, exhibitions, music, food and other events, we can not only appreciate beauty but also feel the soul, history and way of thinking of each nation," she said.

The group concluded its visit to Guangzhou on Monday afternoon and will continue the tour in Beijing.