For SISUer — a playful twist on “SISU student” — spring in Shanghai means cherry blossoms, drizzles, and a chance to explore the city with new friends from around the world.

On April 3, 2026, a cherry blossom-themed City Walk took place in Shanghai’s Hongkou District. The event was co-hosted by the International Student Office of Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) and the Quyang Road Subdistrict New Era Civilization Practice Center. Designed to welcome new international students, it helped them get to know their neighborhood, settle into life in Shanghai, and connect with fellow students. It also offered a window into the city’s springtime beauty and local culture — a gentle introduction to the rhythms of life in Shanghai and a bridge for cross-cultural friendship.

International students from various countries gathered by the central fountain on SISU’s Hongkou campus. Led by faculty members and accompanied by senior Chinese students, they set off on a city walk where cherry blossoms and light rain became the backdrop for discovery.

The group first stopped at Lu Xun Park, where they admired rain-kissed cherry blossoms, took in the views, and learned about the cultural significance of cherry blossoms in China. They then walked along the North Bund waterfront, where the skyscrapers of Lujiazui appeared through the mist, facing the historic Bund across the river. Along the way, their guides shared stories of Shanghai’s century-long transformation along its rivers and shores.

Next, they visited the Balin Road community, a quiet, welcoming neighborhood. Walking along a path lined with cherry trees, they heard about the community’s history and recent achievements. The final stop was Bailian Quyang Shopping Center, where students tried their hands at making traditional sachets — a hands-on craft activity that brought laughter and conversation. A get-to-know-you icebreaker session helped deepen connections, making the cross-cultural atmosphere even warmer.

Throughout the walk — through rain, blossoms, streets, and stories — students experienced firsthand the unique charm of Shanghai, where historical depth meets modern energy.

A light spring rain did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm. For many international students, this rainy cherry blossom walk became an unexpectedly beautiful memory.

“The cherry blossoms are so beautiful. Spring in China is truly impressive. Walking on the wet streets, surrounded by flowers — I loved every bit of it,”

one student said with a smile.

Another student especially enjoyed the rain:

“Today’s drizzle made everything feel special. It was an unforgettable spring experience.”

For some, the walk changed how they see the city.

“I no longer feel unfamiliar with Shanghai,”

one student shared.

“The company and stories from our senior student guides helped me get to know the city faster. It made me fall even more in love with China and Shanghai. I want to study Chinese harder, learn more about Chinese culture, make more Chinese friends, and truly settle into my new life here.”

This City Walk was a key example of how SISU and the Quyang Road Subdistrict are working together to bring international students into closer contact with local life. Organized as part of the “Qushang Community Academy” exchange program, the event used cherry blossoms and a light rain as its backdrop — turning a simple walk into an immersive experience. It helped students step off campus, explore a Shanghai neighborhood, and feel the city’s character and warmth in a fresh spring setting.

Going forward, SISU’s International Student Office and the Quyang Road Subdistrict plan to continue offering more cross-cultural events like this one. With city walks as a format and mutual understanding as the goal, they hope to create meaningful opportunities for Chinese and international students to connect — and, in doing so, bring cultures a little closer, one neighborhood at a time.

Source: Study at SISU