The XR panoramic fantasy exhibition "Awakening Dunhuang: Divine Beasts Set Out" has launched in Putuo District.
Recognized as one of the top 10 outstanding case of “China Wisdom Shanghai Plan 2025 AI+Cultural Tourism Selection" at the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, this cutting-edge exhibition in Taopu Smart City seamlessly blends technology and ancient civilization.
Within the 300-square-meter XR immersive zone, visitors wearing VR devices are instantly transported to the sweeping sands of Mingsha Mountain, where a luminous blue Qingniao (Divine Blue Bird) serves as their guide through this digital Dunhuang adventure.
The exhibition offers two distinct experiences: The entertainment-focused version transforms participants into "Chosen Ones" tasked with awakening mythical creatures through interactive quests, while the comprehensive version delves deeper into Dunhuang's cultural heritage while retaining all the exciting creature interactions.
By integrating large-scale spatial positioning, multi-modal sensing and 1:1 digital replication technologies, the exhibition faithfully recreates 14 iconic Dunhuang scenes. Visitors can trace mural outlines and identify mineral pigments to awaken four legendary beasts - the Nine-Colored Deer, Qingniao, Heavenly Horse and Treasure-Guarding Dragon. Advanced AI restoration brings ancient murals to life, vividly depicting historical scenes, while panoramic views allow exploration of Mingsha Mountain's seasonal transformations and the bustling merchant caravans of Yumen Pass.
Located at 280 Dunhuang Road within Taopu's TOP Central Park, a 100-hectare urban green space that represents Shanghai's largest central open green space, the exhibition offers tickets at 98 yuan (US$13.65) for the comprehensive version and 60 yuan for the entertainment version, available through Damai, Meituan and Douyin platforms.
Visitors can take Metro Line 15 to Gulang Road Station, enter through the main gate at 280 Dunhuang Road, and follow floor markers to Room A11 - a hidden Dunhuang wonderland nestled within TOP Central Park.
