Discover Jiangsu: How Nanjing’s Great Bao’en Temple Combines Heritage and Metaverse Technology in Eastern China

Jiangsu Province in eastern China is emerging as a global showcase for how history and modern innovation can harmoniously coexist. As a prominent cultural and economic hub, Jiangsu has embraced high-quality development to enhance its appeal as a tourism destination while advancing its industrial capabilities. To highlight these achievements, the province hosted the “2024 Jiangsu in Focus Media Trip,” a five-day event designed to provide international journalists and social media influencers with a firsthand look at its progress.

The media trip, co-organized by Jiangsu’s Information Office, Foreign Affairs Office, and China Daily, brought together participants from countries like Italy, the Czech Republic, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Brazil, Egypt, Singapore, and Indonesia. Between November 3 and 7, the delegation visited key cities, including Nanjing, Yangzhou, Wuxi, and Suzhou, immersing themselves in the region’s unique blend of historical landmarks, cultural heritage, and cutting-edge industrial transformation.

A Journey Through History and Innovation

One of the standout moments of the trip was a visit to the picturesque village of Qianjiadu in Nanjing. Known for its serene water-town charm and commitment to preserving intangible cultural heritage, Qianjiadu has successfully developed an immersive tourism model. Participants experienced traditional boat rides, interactive cultural performances, and vibrant festivals, showcasing how Jiangsu integrates its rural heritage into a dynamic tourism strategy.

The visit to the Great Bao’en Temple Ruins Museum in Nanjing was another highlight. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the temple was once the tallest structure in ancient China. Today, the museum utilizes Metaverse technology to reimagine its historic grandeur. Journalists and influencers created virtual avatars to explore the temple’s iconic glazed pagoda, marveling at how technology brought ancient Chinese architecture to life. Interactive exhibits, such as augmented reality (AR) installations and digital touchscreens, further engaged visitors with the temple’s history and cultural significance.

“The innovative use of technology allowed me to feel the magnificence of ancient Chinese architecture in a way I never thought possible,” said Damira Ibranović, a journalist from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Exploring Jiangsu’s Industrial Advancements

The media trip also highlighted Jiangsu’s industrial prowess. In Wuxi, participants visited Yadea Technology Group, a global leader in electric vehicles, to witness the company’s latest innovations in green transportation. Similarly, Suzhou’s Industrial Park Exhibition Center showcased Jiangsu’s advancements in high-end manufacturing and smart city solutions, emphasizing the region’s commitment to industrial modernization.

The group also toured Yangzhou’s China Grand Canal Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to one of the oldest and longest man-made waterways in the world. This site not only celebrated the region’s historical significance but also illustrated Jiangsu’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its heritage while leveraging it for sustainable urban development.

Balancing Cultural Heritage with Economic Growth

Jiangsu’s success lies in its ability to balance cultural preservation with economic growth. The province’s economic contributions are significant, given its location in the Yangtze River Delta, one of China’s most dynamic regions. In 2023, Jiangsu recorded a regional gross domestic product (GDP) of 12.82 trillion yuan (approximately $1.8 trillion), reflecting a 5.8% year-on-year growth.

Helena Kočová, a journalist from the Czech Republic, noted how Jiangsu’s innovative approach to rural tourism drives local development. “This is my first time in Jiangsu, and I am impressed by how beautiful rural villages can attract global tourists while empowering local communities,” she said.

The province has also made sustainability a priority, integrating eco-friendly practices into its tourism initiatives. For instance, Jiangsu is reducing single-use plastics and promoting green energy in its industrial sectors, ensuring that development aligns with environmental goals.

The Role of Jiangsu’s Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism remains a cornerstone of Jiangsu’s strategy to attract international visitors. Sites such as Nanjing’s Xiaoxihu Block and Suzhou’s classical gardens highlight the province’s historical richness. These landmarks not only provide aesthetic appeal but also reflect Jiangsu’s deep cultural roots. The introduction of modern technology, such as AR and the Metaverse, enhances the storytelling of these sites, making them more accessible and engaging for younger audiences.

The province’s cultural significance is further amplified by its intangible cultural heritage, from traditional crafts to immersive performances. Villages like Qianjiadu are at the forefront of showcasing this heritage, combining authentic cultural experiences with innovative tourism models that attract both domestic and international visitors.

Global Implications for Jiangsu’s Development

Jiangsu’s efforts are not limited to tourism and industrial growth. The province’s model of integrating history with modernity offers a blueprint for other regions aiming to achieve balanced development. Its achievements underscore the importance of leveraging cultural heritage as a resource for economic and social progress.

By hosting events like the “Jiangsu in Focus Media Trip,” the province strengthens its global ties and fosters mutual understanding. Participants from diverse countries bring Jiangsu’s story to the world, highlighting its role as a leader in high-quality development and cultural tourism.

Looking Ahead

As Jiangsu continues to innovate and grow, it remains committed to preserving its historical legacy while advancing its position as a global economic powerhouse. The province’s blend of cultural richness, technological innovation, and sustainable practices ensures that it will remain a beacon of inspiration for other regions worldwide.