Get ready for an incredible adventure – the CSA Study Trip 2026 is taking you to Beijing, Nanjing, and Hangzhou!
This year’s journey dives deep into the heart of China, where ancient traditions meet modern ambition. We will begin in Beijing, exploring the pulse of the capital and its mix of imperial heritage and innovation. Next, we will head to Nanjing, a city that bridges history and progress. Finally, we will end in Hangzhou, known for its scenic charm and forward-thinking spirit.
Throughout the trip, we will connect with universities, companies, and local communities, offering a hands-on look at China’s dynamic culture and growing industries.
Pack your bags, open your mind, and join us for an inspiring experience that blends learning, exploration, and unforgettable moments!
The dynamic capital of China and a city where ancient tradition and modern innovation coexist. As the nation’s political, cultural, and educational center, it’s home to iconic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall of China. The city also hosts some of the country’s most prestigious universities and rapidly growing industries, making it a hub for both history and progress. Beijing offers a unique glimpse into China’s past, present, and future.
CSA is excited to introduce Nanjing as a brand-new destination, one we have never offered before. Nanjing, once the nation’s capital, is rich in history and culture. Famous for its city walls, Ming-era architecture, and the Qinhuai River, it reflects centuries of Chinese heritage. Landmarks like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Confucius Temple showcase its historical significance. With vibrant local traditions, cuisine, and festivals, Nanjing offers a living glimpse into China’s cultural soul.
Hangzhou is a city celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Famous for the scenic West Lake, historic temples, and traditional gardens, it has inspired poets and artists for centuries. The city’s blend of serene landscapes and rich traditions makes Hangzhou a perfect example of China’s harmony between nature and culture.
Study Trip 2026 will occur from the 12th of March until the 26th of March.
Our trip begins in Beijing, China’s historic and modern capital. We’ll then take a high-speed train to Nanjing, a hub of culture and innovation, before continuing to Hangzhou, known for its scenic beauty and dynamic economy. Along the way, we’ll visit companies and universities to explore China’s culture, business, and technology.
The price for our Study Trip 2026 is €1199,- for CSA General Members and €1299,- for Non-General Members. The price includes all the flight tickets, transportation between cities, transportation cards, accommodations throughout your stay, entrance tickets to various historic sights, participation in business with multiple companies, and cultural activities organized by CSA Study Trip.
Please note that the costs of the visa are NOT INCLUDED in this price.
The application deadline is the 5th of January 2026 at 23:59!
To apply, please submit your CV along with a motivation letter (max. 1 page) explaining why you want to join the CSA Study Trip. Eligible applicants will be invited for an interview.
We do not have any age or geographical limits for the applicants. People of any age from any country are welcome to apply for the Study Trip. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us via e-mail – [email protected]
– or stop by at the CSA office PT-050.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the flagship carrier of the Netherlands, is internationally recognized for its long-standing expertise in commercial aviation and global air-transport services. Known for its extensive international network and commitment to sustainable aviation practices, KLM continues to play a key role in connecting Europe with the rest of the world. During our trip, we will have the chance to visit KLM’s Beijing office, where we will gain an inside look at the airline’s regional operations and its approach to customer service, logistics, and future-oriented aviation strategies.
Nongfu Spring, one of China’s most prominent beverage companies, is widely known for its bottled water sourced from protected natural environments, as well as its growing range of teas, juices, and functional drinks. The company places strong emphasis on purity, quality control, and environmentally conscious production methods. In Hangzhou, we will tour Nongfu Spring’s headquarters, offering us the opportunity to explore how the company manages product development, branding, and large-scale distribution within China’s competitive beverage market.
Thanks to the support of the Vereniging Nederland China (VNC), the oldest and most active China-focused association in the Netherlands, our Study Trip will include an exclusive networking dinner in Nanjing. Through their extensive cultural and professional connections in China, VNC is opening doors for our group to meet inspiring local partners, cultural organizations, and young professionals.
Beijing Overseas Returned Scholars Association (BORS) is a Beijing-based organization of internationally experienced professionals who contribute to cultural exchange and international engagement. During Study Trip 2026, representatives from BORS joined our group as guides, playing an important role in shaping and enriching the day’s program.
The day began with a visit to the Yanqi Lake International Convention Center, a prominent venue known for hosting the APEC China 2014. This historic gathering brought together global leaders, including Barack Obama and Xi Jinping, highlighting the site’s international significance. Following this visit, BORS arranged a buffet lunch, providing a moment to relax and connect as a group. In the afternoon, the program continued with visits to traditional villages near the Great Wall of China, offering insight into local life and history, before exploring the Wall itself. The combination of cultural context, historical landmarks, and thoughtful guidance made it a highly engaging and memorable learning experience.
Jiangsu Association for International Exchange (JAFIE) is an organization based in Nanjing that focuses on promoting international cooperation in education, culture, and talent exchange by connecting Chinese institutions with partners around the world.
Our visit to Jiangsu Association for International Exchange (JAFIE) was marked by a warm and thoughtfully organized opening ceremony. The event brought together students from universities in Nanjing, along with local officials, creating a welcoming setting for cultural exchange. Following the formal program, the evening continued with a shared dinner. The university students enriched the experience with a musical performance, adding a personal and cultural touch to the evening. Several participants from our group also contributed with performances, making it a lively and engaging conclusion to the day.
Unitree Robotics stands at the forefront of robotic innovation, specializing in the development of advanced quadruped robots. The company has gained international recognition for making high-performance robotics more accessible while continuously advancing mobility and artificial intelligence. Within the context of the study trip, attention is given to Unitree’s work, providing a broader perspective on its technological developments and its role in shaping the future of robotics.
Peking University (PKU), also known as Beida, is often regarded as the nation’s symbol of intellectual tradition and academic freedom. Blending a long scholarly legacy with cutting-edge research, PKU maintains outstanding strengths in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and frontier disciplines such as artificial intelligence and public policy. Its diverse academic community and historic campus culture make it one of the most influential universities in the Chinese-speaking world.
Tsinghua University stands as one of China’s most prestigious institutions, located in Beijing’s Haidian District. Tsinghua excels across engineering, computer science, environmental studies, and emerging interdisciplinary fields. Its modern research platforms and extensive global partnerships continue to anchor Tsinghua at the forefront of technological and societal development in China.
Nanjing University (NJU) is one of China’s oldest and most storied higher-education institutions, rooted in the historic city of Nanjing. NJU is well regarded for its contributions to chemistry, earth sciences, astronomy, and literature, as well as research areas that merge scientific inquiry with global issues such as climate, sustainability, and cultural development.