A delegation of 69 American students, educators, and young professionals visited Guangzhou on July 18, experiencing both cultural heritage and advanced technology.

The visit is part of an exchange program launched in September 2022 by the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation, rooted in the shared history of the Flying Tigers, American volunteer pilots who defended China during WWII. 

Young American participants take a group photo at the Haixinsha Omni-Space Intelligent Experience Center in Tianhe. [Photo/South]

The group toured the Guangdong Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum and the Haixinsha Omni-Space Intelligent Experience Center, where they saw traditional craftsmanship alongside humanoid robots. First-time visitor Miriam Vera said, "It was so much fun to get to follow a robot dancing.

Visitors view the GOVY AirCab, a two-seat eVTOL flying car by GAC. [Photo/South]

Among the delegates were Micah and Josh Vinyard, grandsons of "Hump" pilot Jay Vinyard, who completed 87 supply missions over the Himalayas. "Just seeing the city and all this amazing technology, and the art museum was wonderful," Micah said. "I couldn't take enough pictures and videos."

Young delegates admire clay figurines of the Chaoshan Ying-ge dance from the Dawu tradition. [Photo/South]

Participants emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties. Vera noted, "It's important to have a good connection with both countries." Student Lantz added, "It's very important that you open up your mind to the history and learn more about how we were together in it."