International students write the character for fu, meaning good fortune, during their visit to the ancient city of Xinzhou in Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On Wednesday, over 20 international students visited the ancient city of Xinzhou, Shanxi province, which boasts a history of over 1,800 years.

During the event, the students experienced intangible cultural heritage and immersed themselves in the unique charm of traditional Chinese New Year customs. Among the activities were lessons in paper-cutting, writing couplets, and mastering the character for fu, which means good fortune.

They also watched street-side folk performances that brought passersby into the fray to sing and dance together.

Onguene Lionel Serge, a student from Cameroon, couldn't help but express excitement. "I had so much fun experiencing the intangible cultural heritage of the Spring Festival and received many gifts," he said. "I will share this precious experience with my family when I return."

An international student performs the yangko dance on Wednesday during a visit to the ancient city of Xinzhou in Shanxi province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

For Mohammad Zarif Sadiqi, an Afghan student who has been in China for two years, this was his first opportunity to celebrate Chinese New Year in an ancient city. "The people here are very kind and friendly, and everything in the ancient city is captivating," he said.

This year is the third time the event has been held. It is organized by the Shanxi Provincial People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.

"When international students visit the ancient city of Xinzhou and immerse themselves in paper-cutting, writing couplets, making dumplings, and performing the yangko dance, they witness the vibrant and thriving Chinese New Year," said Li Xiuyun, director of Xinzhou's foreign affairs office. "Furthermore, they gain an appreciation for the profound and unique charm of China's outstanding traditional culture."

Zhao Yunzhuo contributed to the story.