In a recent statement, the Shanghai government has unveiled its ambitious plans to harness the power of the metaverse in order to revolutionize tourism and culture throughout the country.
Spanning the years 2023 to 2025, the comprehensive strategy focuses on using advanced augmented reality (AR) technologies to enhance the travel experience for tourists, creating a more immersive and inclusive environment.
To achieve this vision, the government has outlined several key objectives. These include expediting the widespread deployment of 5G networks, encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge computing platforms capable of real-time spatial computing and cloud rendering, and bolstering the technical infrastructure that underpins digital cultural tourism.
The announcement also highlights the government’s intention to encourage museums, art galleries, exhibition venues, and commercial districts to embrace virtual reality (VR) technologies such as extended reality (XR), naked eye 3D, holographic projection, digital light and shadow, as well as employing equipment like ball (ring) screens and intelligent perception. This integration aims to create immersive cultural and tourist experiences that seamlessly interact with the virtual reality realm.
Furthermore, the government plans to strengthen the use of blockchain technology and increase financial support for the study and development of the cultural tourism metaverse industry system.
Shanghai is making bold strides to establish itself as a frontrunner in the rapidly evolving metaverse revolution. In April, the Shanghai Fengxian District has launched the “Tax Metaverse,” a virtual world aimed at improving the experience and efficiency of tax payment.
The city’s forward-thinking strategies have set the stage for China’s prominent role in this groundbreaking movement.
Earlier this year, China made significant headway by launching its first regulated NFT marketplace, marking a crucial milestone in the country’s embrace of digital assets and virtual economies. Adding to the momentum, the city of Nanjing recently unveiled its pioneering government-led metaverse platform.
