Participants in the "Silk Road TZVCST" program pose for a group photo during their straw weaving craft study tour in Wenling city of Taizhou, Zhejiang province, June 10. [Photo/Tide News]

More than 40 students and teachers from Uzbekistan embarked on a cultural journey in Wenling, a county-level city in Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province, on June 10, as part of the "Silk Road TZVCST" program.

The initiative, developed by Taizhou Vocational College of Science and Technology, responds to the Belt and Road Initiative by promoting international cooperation in vocational education.

Led by renowned intangible cultural heritage (ICH) inheritor Chen Zhen, the visitors explored the rich legacy of Wenling's traditional straw weaving, a craft recognized as a representative ICH item of Zhejiang province since 2012.

They learned about the evolution of the straw-weaving industry and were fascinated by how simple straw can be transformed into stylish hats and other creative products.

Uzbek students admire hats and creative products made of straw in Wenling city of Taizhou, Zhejiang province, June 10. [Photo/Tide News]

The group also took part in a hands-on workshop, crafting handbags, roses, and decorative items under the guidance of skilled artisans.

A student from Uzbekistan said the "fingertip" experience brought her great joy. "I not only felt the depth of Chinese culture and the inclusiveness of a great civilization, but also experienced the friendship of the Chinese people through cultural exchange," she said.

Uzbek participants try their hands at transforming straw into stylish items. [Photo/Tide News]

To deepen their appreciation, Chen invited the guests to select a straw-woven hat as a souvenir, further strengthening their connection to the culture.

Chen also expressed his commitment to continuing to innovate and expand the reach of Wenling straw weaving, with the hope of incorporating more local cultural elements and engaging a wider international audience.