Storozhuk Aleksandr, a professor at Novgorod University in Russia and the director of the European Sinological Society, and Maiatskii Dmitrii, a young Russian sinologist and the Russian director of the Confucius Institute at St. Petersburg State University, led a delegation on a visit to Zibo in Shandong province for cultural exchanges centered around Liaozhai culture. 

Liaozhai culture originated from Liaozhai Zhiyi (Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio) by Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) writer Pu Songling.

The delegation visited several of Zibo's cultural landmarks, including Yan Wenjiang Temple, Hongmen Temple, and Yanshen Ancient Town. They also had the chance to savor local delicacies and try their hands at making traditional ceramics in Zibo's Boshan district. Aleksandr said he had huge admiration for the city's rich cultural heritage following the visit.

During a lecture on Liaozhai culture, Aleksandr shared insights into the Russian translation process of Tales from Liaozhai. Following the lecture, he presented the Russian translation of the book to the Pu Songling Memorial Hall.

The delegation concluded their visit with a tour of Pu Songling Memorial Hall accompanied by Pu Zhangjun, the 11th grandson of the renowned writer.

The delegation visits local streets and architecture in Zibo. [Photo provided by the information office of Zibo municipal people's government]