To enable foreign soccer players to gain a better understanding of Chinese culture and strengthen the friendship between young people in China and foreign countries, the organizing committee of the 2015 China (Shanghai) International Youth Football Invitational invited nearly 300 participating players from eight countries on a city tour on July 15.

The players toured the Shanghai Museum and saw a great number of cultural relics featuring bronze ware, pottery and porcelain, and calligraphy and paintings. Some players considered Chinese culture very special, while others said that they like Shanghai, a modern metropolis like New York and were impressed by the charm of traditional Chinese culture.

Foreign players who participated in the 2015 China (Shanghai) International Youth Football Invitational pose for a group photo in front of the Shanghai Museum, July 15. [Photo/shedunews.com]

Foreign soccer players visit Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai, July 15. [Photo/shedunews.com]

In addition to the museum, they also visited the Bund scenic area, Yuyuan Garden, the Old City God’s Temple (Chenghuang Temple) and other attractions and tasted traditional Chinese delicacies.

To enhance cross-cultural communication, the foreign players also shared their traditions and customs with Chinese players. For instance, some players from Cameroon often performed African folk dances after the games, inviting Chinese and foreign players to join them.