China's first extended reality (XR) experience center for Emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum has opened in Xi'an, capital city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, offering visitors an unforgettable journey into the heart of ancient China.
Housed within the prestigious Chang'an Academy, the center offers a revolutionary virtual reality experience. Visitors can explore a meticulously recreated landscape of Emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum, brought to life using the latest archaeological findings and cutting-edge technology.
Putting on wearable devices and stepping into state-of-the-art VR, visitors can gallop on war horses, drive chariots, and encounter lifelike terracotta warriors along the ancient Qinzhidao, or "Straight Road" of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC).
The underground palace passages and treacherous traps add an element of suspense, prompting visitors to embody palace guards and engage in a thrilling chase within the mysterious confines of the mausoleum.
"Our 'Guarding the Emperor Qinshihuang's mausoleum' project faithfully restores our historical culture using high-tech methods, allowing everyone to experience the cultural charm of Xi'an firsthand," said Geng Qiannan, a staff member at the Chang'an Academy XR Immersive Experience Center.
In addition to the thrilling "time travel" adventure, the experience center will soon unveil another groundbreaking VR project – the nation's first immersive VR experience on the Red Army's Long March, titled "The Long March: Crossing the Chishui River Four Times."
Set to launch in April, this groundbreaking project will feature non-player character (NPC) role-playing, allowing visitors to personally witness the arduous crossing of the treacherous Chishui River, gaining a profound understanding of that pivotal moment in history.
In January 1935, the Red Army engaged the Kuomintang's force in a heavy battle at Chishui. It crossed the Chishui River four times in the fight, one of the most decisive and victorious military moves during the Long March.
Alongside these cutting-edge digital experiences, the Chang'an Academy has also carefully crafted the "Book Fragrance Workshop," providing a cultural experience and learning platform for young people to delve into the essence of traditional Chinese culture through interactive activities. This includes exploring block printing and movable-type printing techniques, as well as the creation of traditional woodblock New Year's paintings.
Xi'an opens XR center for immersive journey into Qin era
