In a remarkable blend of history and technology, visitors to the Forbidden City can now step into a virtual world through an immersive VR experience. By donning a VR headset, they are transported into the heart of the ancient palace, witnessing its grand architecture and even following Emperor Zhu Xi of the Ming Dynasty as he sketches the blueprint of this iconic structure. As they explore, a voice narrates the stories behind the buildings, drawing from astrology, rituals, and the five elements, offering a unique perspective on the cultural significance of the site.
This is not just a historical journey—it's a new way to experience the past. The Palace Museum has launched a VR project that allows users to break free from time and space, transforming them into ancient figures who walk, touch, and interact with the environment. Experts at the museum believe that by using virtual reality, people can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of the Forbidden City and truly feel its historical charm.
Though the VR experience lasts only a few minutes, it represents years of effort by the National Palace Museum’s technical team. From initial design guided by experts, to detailed modeling and rendering, every aspect was carefully crafted to ensure authenticity and engagement. A strict review process ensured that the storyline, customs, and even the smallest details of artifacts were accurate, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
Compared to other museums around the world, which are still in the early stages of VR adoption, the Palace Museum’s project stands out for its realism and cultural depth. It offers a fresh approach to cultural and creative development in the museum sector.
While VR is commonly used in gaming, the Palace Museum has taken a unique path by integrating advanced sensory technologies. Visitors wear 360-degree VR headsets that prevent disconnection, and are also provided with 3D motion seats and lighting systems that enhance the overall experience. This multi-sensory approach—combining sight, sound, and movement—creates a more immersive and engaging visit. Additionally, an English version of the experience is being planned to cater to international visitors.
Beyond VR, the Palace Museum is also exploring augmented reality (AR) to further enrich the visitor experience. With AR, users can scan plaques or images and see historical content pop up on their devices. For instance, scanning a plaque might reveal historical images, while scanning a picture could bring a three-dimensional artifact to life. Even traditional red envelopes come alive with animated characters like emperors and imperial brothers during the Lunar New Year.
As technology continues to evolve, the Forbidden City is embracing innovation to bridge the gap between ancient culture and modern society. By integrating VR, AR, and other digital tools, it is redefining how history is experienced and shared. The Forbidden City, rich with centuries of history, is now opening new doors to the world through the power of technology.
This article originally appeared in the People's Daily on November 18, 2017, page 18. For more updates on VR and AR, follow the official WeChat account "VR Platform."
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