Students from both countries visit Flying Tigers Memorial Hall. [Photo/Changting County-Level Converged Media Center]

The "Flying Tigers Kinship & Tingzhou Legacy" 2025 China-United States Youth Cultural Exchange Winter Camp kicked off on Dec 29, 2025, at Changting No 1 Middle School in Longyan, Fujian province.

Over 50 students from seven schools across five US states joined more than 300 participants — including representatives from nine Flying Tigers Friendship Schools in Fujian and teachers and students from other schools — for this five-day event.

Over 80 years ago, the Chinese and American people fought side by side against fascist aggression, with the Flying Tigers stationed in Changting making significant contributions to world peace and justice. This camp, held in 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, holds deep significance.

Following the opening ceremony, students from China and the United States took part in a variety of cultural and sports exchanges. They planted friendship trees, practiced Chinese calligraphy for Spring Festival couplets, and explored traditional Chinese culture and intangible cultural heritage crafts. Friendly competitions in basketball, tug-of-war, and darts fostered camaraderie through sports.

As night fell, a bonfire party brought the camp to life. Students from both countries gathered around the fire, performing popular songs, showcasing a Hakka fashion show, demonstrating Chinese martial arts, and enjoying street dance. These cultural and artistic exchanges deepened their friendships.

During the camp, participants visited significant sites such as the Flying Tigers Memorial Hall, the former residence of Flying Tigers members, and the Changting County Museum. Through historical photographs, artifacts, and immersive experiences, they learned about the Flying Tigers’ heroic deeds, enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening ties between the youth of both nations.