Two ancient wonders open a new dialogue

For generations of Chinese students, Machu Picchu in Peru may have first appeared not on a travel itinerary, but in an English textbook.

Chinese English-language textbooks are filled with photographs of landmarks from around the world. In recent years, a trend has emerged on Chinese social media: travelers take their old textbooks with them on trips.

At Machu Picchu, some Chinese visitors have held up their textbooks for photos with the ruins, then left copies in hidden corners for the next Chinese traveler to find and continue the photo relay.

An ancient site that once seemed distant and unfamiliar has found an unexpected way to connect with a younger generation thousands of miles away. That connection is now taking a more formal shape.