The delegation from the University of East Anglia displays their works. [Photo/Shandong University]

Students and faculty from the University of East Anglia visited Shandong University's preservation and conservation of ancient Chinese books center on June 10, where they participated in the UK-China Study Tour Navigation Program: Study in China project, hosted by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange.

The immersive session began with a lecture by Professor Yao Wenchang, who introduced the profound cultural significance of Chinese stone inscriptions. Tracing the history of the "spirit stone" concept through legends like the goddess Nuwa and Sun Wukong's birth, Yao laid an academic foundation for understanding the historical value of stone-inscribed documents.

After the lecture, Li Xuan led a practical workshop on rubbing, the traditional technique used to reproduce stone carvings. She guided students through the precise four-step process — applying paper, smoothing, inking, and unveiling, demonstrating how to capture clear, detailed impressions. Students carefully mirrored these steps, meticulously transferring the textures of ancient inscriptions onto paper.

This event, part of the university's initiative to integrate intangible heritage like rubbing and woodblock printing into cultural exchange, highlighted the university's commitment to fostering academic dialogue.

By offering hands-on experiences, Shandong University provides a replicable model for the global promotion of Chinese classical literature, bridging cultural divides for international scholars and students.