Experience Sichuan, a tour around the?southwest China province?by Chinese and foreign college students, was launched at Xicun Cultural and Creative Industry Park in Chengdu.

Over 200 Chinese and international students from prestigious Chinese universities took part in the first session of the?activity designed for them to experience the tourism resources, economic development, scientific progress and innovation achivements of Sichuan.

The activity is part of Sichuan’s answer to the government call for guiding and encouraging college graduates to work in grassroots organizations and for college students to spread cultural, scientific and sanitary knowledge and know-how in rural areas; it is also an initiative intended to build up Sichuan’s intellectual strength on its way toward talent-driven development.

The tour is expected to improve the overall quality of the participants, especially their entrepreneurial spirit and ability.

Recruit of participants for the activity received warm response, with online applications having surpassed 5,000, including 1,500 from international students.

Themed “Youth dreams converge in Chengdu,” the tour is comprised of six sessions, lasting for three days each.

Participants can both join in a package tour and move around as an independent traveler. Three tourist routes, covering more than 10 famous scenic areas and incorporating elements embodying Sichuan’s cultural resources, distinction in scientific innovation and innovation and entrepreneurship environment, are available for them. Nine colleges and universities will accommodate them on their dormitory beds.