Chongqing - On January 17, 2026, a group of 19 students and faculty from Elon University in the United States joined Chinese peers from Sichuan University, Sichuan International Studies University, and Chongqing Nankai Middle School for an activity at Chongqing Stilwell Museum, which combined historical education with cultural exchange. The event, titled "Shared History, Shared Future - Stilwell China-U.S. Youth Bridge," was organized by the Chongqing People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Stilwell Research Center.

A group photo taken by China-U.S. students. (Photo/Deng Nan)

Walking Through Shared History

The visit began with a guided tour of General Joseph W. Stilwell's former residence and several thematic exhibitions highlighting China-U.S. cooperation during World War II. Displays included "A Great Friend - Photo Exhibition on General Stilwell's Life," "The Doolittle Raid Rescue Themed Image Exhibition," and "A Bridge Across Time and Space: Memory and Heritage at Chongqing Stilwell Museum." 

A guided tour at Chongqing Stilwell Museum. (Photo/Deng Nan)

"I was genuinely so shocked about these exhibits at the museum. I didn't learn this part in history class," said Elon University student Isabel. "It was so interesting learning about the close connection between the U.S. and China. This feels like the perfect way to bring that history back to life and show that connection really is possible."

A guided tour at Chongqing Stilwell Museum. (Photo/Deng Nan)

The narratives presented offered a new perspective. "In the U.S., we learn things from the American perspective, but not always the global perspective," noted Alison, a faculty member on her first trip to China. "What we've experienced here has really struck me - like the mix of old and new in cities, and this history of General Stilwell."

Alison left a note after the visit. (Photo/Deng Nan)

Youth Dialogue: From Past to Present

A salon followed, where students from both countries exchanged views on wartime history and shared ideas on how to contribute to bilateral friendship today.

Shared History, Shared Future - Stilwell China-U.S. Youth Bridge Salon. (Photo/Deng Nan)

"I think interpersonal exchanges like today's are incredibly important," said Elon student Liam. "We can deepen understanding through food, sports, and travel - things that help correct stereotypes and stigmatizations sometimes seen in the media. Personally, I've really enjoyed traveling in China, and I believe other Americans would too."

Liam took a photo at the former residence of General Joseph W. Stilwell. (Photo/Deng Nan)

The museum visit and salon aimed to build exactly this kind of direct connection. "We hope this event draws on the longstanding friendship between our peoples and helps write a new chapter through the younger generation," said a representative from the Foreign Affairs Office of the People's Government of Chongqing Municipality.

Building Bonds Beyond the Classroom

The program also included a screening of documentaries, Stilwell and the China-Burma-India Theater and Stilwell Road Retraced, followed by a lively table tennis match in the museum courtyard, where laughter and cheers underscored the day's theme of connection.

Table tennis exchange. (Photo/Deng Nan)

The Elon group was led by Xiao Honglin, a teacher dedicated to broadening American students' understanding of China. Since 2006, he has developed courses that challenge stereotypes and have grown increasingly popular. "Many students have studied Chinese, and some are even waiting for a second chance to join a trip like this," Xiao said.

A guided tour at the Chongqing Stilwell Museum. (Photo/Deng Nan)

He chose Chongqing for its unique historical and cultural footprint - a city that symbolizes China-U.S. wartime solidarity, houses UNESCO heritage like the Dazu Rock Carvings, and showcases distinctive urban development.

A letter from Franklin Roosevelt to the citizens of Chongqing during wartime. (Photo/Deng Nan)

Before the trip, Elon students wrote about their perceptions of China. They will write again upon their return, and Xiao looks forward to seeing how their views may have evolved after experiencing the country firsthand.

This visit marks the third consecutive year Elon University has participated in the exchange program with the Chongqing Stilwell Museum, deepening a tradition of cross-cultural learning between American students and their Chinese hosts.