As a local explorer who's lived by the Jinjiang River for 18 years, I'm excited to share a little secret with you: Chengdu's tech marvels are not just confined to museums or labs - they're all around us.
From the bustling hotpot restaurants to the lively buses and even hidden in the serene rice fields, this city is a living, breathing showcase of innovation. It truly is the perfect playground for you to dive into the wonders of futuristic China together.
Let's take a journey through these "sci-fi playgrounds", where you and your kids can learn while joyfully shouting, "Hǎo ānyì o!" (So awesome!). Here are some must-try experiences in modern Chengdu that you won't want to miss:
1. Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park - "Metaverse Meets Modern Farming"
You can strap on some VR goggles and embark on an exciting quest to catch digital pests in vibrant chili fields. Your little ones will love commanding autonomous tractors in rice-planting challenges, and guess what?
They can even control irrigation systems using just their brainwaves. It's a hands-on way to learn about agriculture in the digital age.
Canola flower in Chengdu Tianfu Agricultural Expo ParkSee our 1-day Chengdu itinerary to experience local lifestyle: 1-Day Chengdu Lifestyle Tour.
Tips: It's about an hour's drive from downtown, so be sure to plan accordingly. I recommend visiting during the day, and you can expect to spend around 1.5 hours soaking in all the fun!
2. Global Center - "Future Lab"
Step inside the world's largest standalone building. Here, your family can battle AI coaches in Tai Chi at smart gyms, swim with robotic fish in an indoor ocean park, and even 3D-print panda-shaped Mapo tofu. It's a mix of fitness, fun, and culinary creativity that everyone will enjoy.
Chengdu Global CenterTips: This gem is just 30 minutes from downtown. Make sure to arrive before 4 PM for the best experience. Plan for about 1.5 hours to fully explore everything.
3. SKP-S - "Underground Future Museum"
Venture 33 meters underground to a sci-fi wonderland. Here, you can marvel at floating robotic pandas on magnetic levitation runways, get fashion advice from AI-powered mirrors, and hear ice cream robots charmingly hawking treats in a delightful Sichuan accent.
And don't miss the Tower of Vitality. This water theater features six AI-driven "thinking water pillars" that flow downward, breaking the mold of traditional fountains.
These pillars adapt their water flow based on real-time weather conditions, creating everything from delicate sprays on sunny days to dramatic downpours during smog.
When night falls, the pillars light up in a stunning array of colors, transforming into glowing masks inspired by Sanxingdui culture. You can even activate the "AI Rain Prayer" ritual - just wave your hand and watch virtual koi fish leap and swim overhead.
Tips: Located right next to the Global Center, this spot is best enjoyed after 6 PM when the lights really come to life.
4. Jiaozi Ring + Twin Towers Light Show - "Finance Magic Class"
Stroll across the illuminated sky bridge at dusk. As you walk, you can scan AR codes to travel back in time to the 11th century, where you'll learn about China's first paper money, Jiaozi, from a friendly Song Dynasty peddler. Your kids will love the interactive storytelling.
Then, get ready to be amazed as stock market data explodes like fireworks on the 268-meter LED towers.
The night view of the Jiaozi Ring and the Twin TowersWant to see more landmark buildings in China? See our 14-Day Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xiamen and Shanghai Tour.
Tips: This experience is best enjoyed after 7 PM, and you can expect to spend about 30 minutes here.
5. Dongjiao Memory Park - "Steel Wonderland"
Dongjiao Memory Park is a creative rebirth of old factories. Here, you can fly a J-20 fighter jet using motion-sensing VR, watch dinosaurs roam Chengdu in stunning 8K dome theaters, or engage in holographic duels as heroes from the Three Kingdoms.
It's a fantastic way to blend history with cutting-edge technology.
Chengdu Dongjiao Memory ParkTips: Plan to visit during the day for the full experience, and you'll want to set aside about 1 hour.
6. Hou Tang Hotpot - "Time-Traveling Spicy Feast"
A culinary adventure is something you have to experience in Chengdu.
Hou Tang Hotpot is where a century-old hotpot tradition meets a tech twist. Here, robots serve your dishes with flair, holograms bring Sichuan's wartime history to life in your broth, and smart chopsticks ensure your meal is safe to eat.
It's a delicious way to experience the past and the future in one meal.
Sichuan HotpotTips: Conveniently located on downtown Chunxi Road, this is the perfect spot for dinner.
7. Taikoo Li - "Earth's Core Lab"
In the underground "Fangsuo Future Bookstore" at Taikoo Li, you can make stone rhino sculptures recite ancient secrets, summon holographic figures of Guan Yu from scanned books, and watch AI calligraphy pens turn spicy characters into floating candy skewers.
It's a magical experience that blends literature with technology.
Interior of Fangsuo Bookstore in ChengduTips: Located in downtown Taikoo Li, you can plan for about 30 minutes of exploration.
Explore a Unique Chengdu with China Highlights
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey in Chengdu. At China Highlights, we're passionate about crafting experiences that not only showcase the city's vibrant culture but also highlight the incredible ways technology enhances our daily lives.
Feel free to contact us or explore some of our popular Chengdu tour itineraries for inspiration.