Smart City Horizons: Exploring Digital Innovation in Shanghai & Hangzhou

Shanghai and Hangzhou stand as two major innovation hubs in China. “Smart City Horizons: Exploring Digital Innovation in Shanghai & Hangzhou” will guide participants through these technological centres, exploring how digital industries are driving urban transformation and economic development.

This exchange programme involves visits to East China University of Science and Technology in Shanghai, where participants will engage with teaching staff to understand how mainland higher education fosters talent. The itinerary also includes visits to renowned social service organisations such as the “Adream Foundation,” demonstrating how technology integrates with public welfare. Participants will stay in a staff-free hotel, where they will experience the advanced application of facial recognition technology throughout this high-end establishment. The group will also tour Hangzhou City Brain Limited to learn how artificial intelligence (AI) and big data improve urban management efficiency, explore the Alibaba campus to see innovative business models of the future, and visit Ant Group’s Hangzhou office for direct discussions with staff about the company’s latest developments.

The journey also offers cultural experiences, including tours of Shanghai’s Tianzifang, the historical Wukang Road, the Bund, as well as Nanshan Road and West Lake night scenery in Hangzhou. Together, participants will gain a multi-faceted understanding of urban development through history, culture and modern city planning.

To ensure proper preparation, all selected participants must attend a pre-departure training workshop focusing on team building, itinerary introduction and pre-departure notes to help participants build rapport and grasp essential information. After the programme, participants also have to attend a post-trip sharing session to reflect on their learnings and extend their personal insights to the broader youth community.

Programme Details:

Dates: 28 December 2025 to 1 January 2026 (5 days, 4 nights)

Target: Hong Kong youth aged 12-35

Eligibility: Holders of a valid Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card or a valid Hong Kong Identity Card who are enrolled in full-time studies in Hong Kong.

Provisional fee: HK$3,328 (includes flights, travel insurance, accommodation, meals and visits)

                             **Eligible underprivileged youth: Only HK$500 (relevant proof required)

Registration: https://form.jotform.com/252613362389461