From July 11 to 13, 2026, the College of International Education at Harbin Medical University organized a flagship cultural excursion titled "Experience China: Tracing the Heroic Spirit of White Mountains and Black Waters", bringing together 41 international students from more than a dozen countries for an intensive walking classroom through Northeast China's historic landscapes.

HMU International Students at Tonghua Valley Memorial

International medical students from Harbin Medical University at the Tonghua mountain valley memorial site.

1. Historical Monuments & Forest Camp Expeditions

On Day 1, the international delegation traveled to Tonghua to visit the General Yang Jingyu Memorial and historical forest redoubt sites. Walking through the mountain trails where historic defenders persevered, students observed authentic wartime artifacts and engaged in a symposium discussing perseverance, peace, and resilience in adversity.

2. Border River Explorations & Team Workshops

Day 2 took the cohort to Linjiang along the Yalu River border valley. Visiting the Shiren Mine Victims Memorial and the Four Defense of Linjiang Memorial, students studied regional historical archives through interactive sand tables and collaborative group exercises highlighting mutual support and unity.

3. Mountain Nature Trails & Environmental Care

On the final day, students hiked into the Linjiang Brook Valley, marveling at the untouched northern mountain scenery. Participants collected trail debris as part of an eco-conservation volunteer drill. During the closing ceremony, international scholars shared original sketches, photographic diaries, and video reels documenting their firsthand encounter with Chinese heritage.