WHAT IS DISCOVER CHINA?
Discover China is an 11-day immersive cultural exchange and storytelling program developed in partnership by Odyssey Project and the U.S.–Sino Culture Experience Consortium (USCEC). Together, our two nonprofits connect young people through firsthand learning, university exchange, and youth-led storytelling.
Experience modern China. Travel beyond the headlines. Build bonds for a lifetime. Explore history and tell real stories – your way.
Playful Curiosity
Explore how different cultures experience fun and discover hidden strengths by engaging in shared games and challenges.
Leadership and Community
Step into youth leadership by building cross-cultural community that’s grounded in empathy, shared humanity, and a spirit of discovery over division.
Youth in Dialogue
Connect with Chinese students through peer-to-peer seminars, shared activities, and independent exploration – fostering curiosity, empathy, and honest cross-cultural exchange.
Unique Storytelling
Experience, reflect, and create based on your own authentic journey, sharing nuanced human stories that foster understanding, dialogue, and trust beyond borders and headlines.
Program Highlights
📍 Nanjing — History & Modern City Life (June 28- July 1)
History & Reflection
Visit significant WWII-era and historical sites to understand the city’s layered past and reflect on how history shapes the present.
Modern City Exploration
Walk through neighborhoods, parks, and cultural districts to experience Nanjing as a living, contemporary city.
University Peer Exchange
Engage with local university students through dialogue and informal exchange, sharing perspectives on history, culture, and daily life.
Everyday Culture & Free Exploration
Experience night markets, food culture, and city life, with independent exploration time built into each day.
📍Xinjiang — Nature, Sustainability & the Future (July 1-8)
Urban Life & Communities
Explore Urumqi’s markets, neighborhoods, and daily rhythms to understand life in a major western Chinese city.
Agriculture & Adaptation
Visit agricultural and irrigation sites in Turpan to see how communities farm and thrive in extreme environments.
Environment & Sustainability
Learn about green energy, reforestation, and environmental resilience across desert and grassland landscapes.
Landscape & Creative Fieldwork
Spend extended time in deserts and grasslands — including exposure to camel culture — with ample space for creative fieldwork and exploration.
What’s Included
The program fee of $1,500 includes:
Travel and Lodging
1. Round-trip airfare from San Francisco (SFO) to China
2. Comfortable local accommodations (double occupancy) – Optional single-room upgrade available
3. Local transportation throughout the program
Experiential Programing
Historical site visits and cultural experiences
Sustainability-focused field visits and local exploration
Peer exchange sessions with Chinese Students
Guided tours
Meals and Daily Necessities
Quality daily meals during the program
Amenities bag with items designed to elevate participant experience in the local environment
Storytelling & Support
Guided reflection and storytelling workshops
On-the-ground-program staff and around the clock participant support
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
Discover China 2026 is a strong fit if you:
Are excited to travel as part of a cohort and build shared community
Are 18-28 years old (exceptions considered)
Are a U.S.-based student or young professional
Have an interest in storytelling, media, culture, or creative expression
Enjoy independence and open-ended travel within a structured program
Are curious, adaptable, and comfortable engaging with complexity
