China-US Exchange: American students visit Beijing for sports and cultural exchange with Chinese peers

American students from Iowa are participating in a cultural exchange programme in China. Over the next few days they'll travel to several cities beginning in Beijing, with sports playing a key role in helping them connect with their Chinese peers. CGTN's Cao Chufeng reports.

From exploring the Olympic Education Museum and a Wushu training and research base to playing pickleball, table tennis and practising martial arts with Chinese students, the American students experienced a mix of sports and culture during their visit to the Capital University of Physical Education and Sports.

The university was one of the main stops of the 2026 U.S. Youth Pickleball People-to-People Exchange China Tour.

NORA SAY High School Student from Iowa "I've had a lot of fun. I've learned a couple of new things. And I've been able to share those experiences with new people I've been meeting."

Pickleball has grown increasingly popular among young people in both countries and has become an increasingly popular activity in youth exchange programs in recent years.

Here, on the court, Chinese and American students are building connections through the game.

ANTHONY AGUILAR High School Student from Iowa "Honestly working with him was probably the best part. Just like being with your teammate out there, and trying your best."

YU ZONGSHENG Student, Capital Normal University Ping Guo Yuan High School "We are very happy. I enjoy to play with him."

Table tennis, a sport with a rich history in China, was another part of the exchange.

Before the American students arrived, their Chinese peers had already been preparing to welcome them and introduce them to the game.

CUI YIMENG Student, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports "I prepared by thinking about some simple ways to communicate with them, practising more to get a better feel for the game, and figuring out how I could help them get a better understanding of table tennis."

ELSIE AGUILAR Recent High School Graduate from Iowa "I think it's pretty fun. I did not expect a lot of certainties on how to hold the paddle, where to put your fingers, how to angle your paddle."

CAO CHUFENG Beijing "From pickleball and table tennis to martial arts, these young people are learning about each other's cultures and passions. And perhaps that's the power of people-to-people exchange: you don't have to come from the same cultural background to connect. Sometimes, a game and a smile can be the beginning of a friendship. Cao Chufeng, CGTN, Beijing."