On the afternoon of May 13, more than 40 international students from ECUST embarked on a hiking and study tour at Sheshan National Forest Park, with the theme “Connecting with Nature, Discovering Cultural Heritage”. Shanghai sits at an average elevation of just 4 meters, making Sheshan’s nearly 100-meter height a rare and ideal spot for hiking and forest immersion. Walking along tree‑lined trails, students breathed in fresh forest air and soaked up the peaceful, lively atmosphere of Shanghai’s unique urban mountain landscape.

Sunlight filtered through dense foliage, casting soft patterns on the path, while cool breezes swept through the woods. Students climbed stone steps together, supporting one another, exercising and bonding along the way. Surrounded by greenery, birdsong and blooming plants, they stopped to admire the scenery and take photos, enjoying a relaxed, joyful outdoor experience.

The tour also featured a visit to the historic Sheshan Observatory. Founded in 1900 and now part of the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, the site stands as a key landmark of modern astronomy in China, bearing witness to many landmark 'firsts' in China's astronomical history. Students explored the heritage site, learned about astronomical development, and gained insight into China’s long‑standing scientific legacy.

This Sheshan excursion offered international students a fresh, quieter side of Shanghai beyond its bustling cityscape. Blending natural scenery and cultural heritage, the trip enriched their extracurricular life, deepened their understanding of Shanghai’s culture and scientific history, and strengthened their sense of belonging and well‑being during their studies in China.