More than 220 undergraduates from top universities in the United Kingdom, including Oxford and Cambridge, embarked on a three-week Study China tour this week. They will be based at East China Normal University in Shanghai.

The program this year includes lessons in the Chinese language, calligraphy, tai chi and history, and interesting tours to major tourist sites in or around Shanghai, such as the Shanghai Museum and the Bund－along with Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, about three hours by car from Shanghai.

"It's our university's privilege to deepen the understanding and friendship between people in China and the UK through the program," Huang Meixu, director of International Education Center at East China Normal University, said at the opening ceremony on Monday.

"Young people from diverse cultures around the world who gather in Shanghai will immerse themselves in Chinese culture, and attain a clear vision of the current social and economic development of the nation. For Chinese students, their global horizon is sure to be broadened, along with promotion of their intercultural communication skills," said Huang.

The program, launched in 2008, has attracted 1,515 undergraduates from the UK.

It is partially funded by the British government, which pays for program costs and accommodations. Other expenses are covered by the students, including flights, visa fees and food.