From augmented reality (AR) cycling glasses to autonomous boats and drone deliveries, sci-tech applications are making spring outings in China more appealing, convenient and smarter, boosting the country's tourism sector.
The ancient city wall in Xi'an, the provincial capital of Shaanxi in northwest China, has deployed smart autonomous boats carrying tourists smoothly through the moat beneath the wall. Some passengers take photos of the scenery, while others brew tea on board, enjoying the relaxation in spring.
"I think the smart boats are more convenient, and the speed is just right. It allows people to focus more on the scenery," said a tourist surnamed Mr. Wang.
On the ancient wall, visitors renting bicycles can simultaneously rent AR-enabled smart glasses. As they ride, the glasses automatically trigger audio guides for sights in view, making every detail of the wall more vivid and engaging.
"Since launching the smart boats and AR cycling glasses, tourists on average stay 30 percent longer than before," said Zhu Yuan, head of the cultural and tourism development of the Xi'an City Wall management committee.
In Hundred Springs Yuanshui Park in Xingtai City, north China's Hebei Province, visitors stroll among the springs while experiencing immersive attractions such as glass-free giant-screen theaters and cinemas with six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) motion systems, exploring the area's historical evolution.
"It feels like flying over the springs and a sea of flowers. The perspective is very novel and stunning. It's my first time experiencing sightseeing this way, and it's very interesting," said a visitor.
In the Huangshan scenic area in east China's Anhui Province, technology is also enhancing the visitor experience, with drones offering delivery services in parks and on-demand unmanned vending vehicles providing instant services.
Sci-tech services add new appeal to spring tourism
