Summer camp in China

Chinese Language and Culture Summer Camp in Shanghai

The Confucius Institute at Tallinn University, in cooperation with its partner university, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (SUFE), organises summer camps in China for learners of Chinese.

The two-week camp offers an opportunity to improve Chinese language skills, experience Chinese culture first-hand, and explore Shanghai and its surroundings. Participants can look forward to Chinese language classes, meetings with local university students, cultural activities, and educational visits.

A total of 20 places are available.

What does the summer camp offer?

During the summer camp, participants can:

  • develop their Chinese language skills in practical, everyday situations;

  • attend Chinese language classes and take part in activities that support language practice;

  • meet SUFE students;

  • explore Chinese culture, history, and everyday life;

  • participate in calligraphy, martial arts, tea culture, and handicraft activities;

  • visit Shanghai’s best-known attractions and cultural and historical sites in the surrounding area;

  • gain valuable international learning and cultural experience.

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from learners of Chinese at the Confucius Institute at Tallinn University and its partner schools who:

  • are aged 16–30;

  • have studied Chinese for at least one year;

  • have passed at least the HSK Level 2 examination — preference will be given to applicants who have passed a higher level;

  • have a strong interest in Chinese language and culture;

  • have actively participated in cultural events, competitions, or other activities organised by the Confucius Institute;

  • are willing to participate in the entire camp programme;

  • have not previously attended a Confucius Institute summer camp in China;

  • are willing to share their experience after the camp through a presentation, photo essay, or another format;

  • are in good health and prepared for Shanghai’s hot and humid summer weather.

Preference will be given to applicants who participate in the “Chinese Bridge” competition in the spring.

Applicants under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian to apply and take part in the trip.

Participation costs

During the programme, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics generally covers:

  • accommodation;

  • meals;

  • local transport;

  • the educational and cultural programme;

  • admission fees for attractions included in the programme.

Participants are responsible for:

  • return flights;

  • a Chinese visa;

  • international travel insurance;

  • personal expenses.

Detailed terms and the amount payable by participants will be published when the camp for the respective year is announced.

2026 Summer Camp Programme

The 2026 summer camp took place in Shanghai and the surrounding area. The programme combined Chinese language learning, practical language use, meetings with local university students, and an introduction to Chinese culture and history.

Arrival and orientation

  • Arrival in Shanghai and a practical orientation session;

  • the camp’s opening ceremony;

  • a tour of the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics campus;

  • a visit to central Shanghai, the Bund, and the Huangpu River.

Chinese language learning and practice

  • A Chinese language lesson focusing on everyday life and Shanghai’s attractions;

  • a language lesson on shopping and travel;

  • a language lesson exploring Chinese food culture;

  • practical language tasks in different areas of Shanghai;

  • interaction with local residents;

  • practising shopping, ordering food in restaurants, and making hotel and travel bookings in Chinese.

Meetings with local university students

Throughout the programme, participants met and took part in joint activities with SUFE students. These encounters offered opportunities to use Chinese in natural conversations, make new friends, and gain a better understanding of everyday student life in China.

Cultural programme and educational visits

  • Suzhou’s gardens and the Wu Culture Museum;

  • Yuyuan Garden and the City God Temple;

  • Nanjing Road and Lujiazui;

  • the Binjiang waterfront promenade;

  • the historic water town of Zhujiajiao, including a boat ride;

  • the Tianzifang neighbourhood and an interactive language game;

  • a tea culture day in Shanghai’s Jinshan District, introducing tea picking and processing;

  • independent exploration of traditional Chinese food culture.

At the end of the camp, participants presented their experiences and what they had learned during the programme.

Applying for the 2027 Summer Camp

The dates, programme, and application requirements for the 2027 summer camp will be published once confirmed.

To find out when applications open, follow the Confucius Institute at Tallinn University’s website and social media channels, or contact us.

Further information

Confucius Institute at Tallinn University
Email: konfutsiuseinstituut@tlu.ee
Phone: (+372) 619 9505
Address: Narva mnt 25, Astra building, room A-225, Tallinn

Watch the 2015 summer camp video