For many years, international tourists traveling to China were primarily drawn to its breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and rich cultural traditions.
Today, however, a new travel trend is emerging. Technology tourism has become one of the most exciting attractions for overseas visitors. More and more travelers are venturing beyond traditional landmarks to explore China's innovation hubs, experiencing firsthand the country's remarkable achievements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and smart manufacturing.
Among the latest must-visit destinations is Unitree Robotics' Embodied Intelligence Experience Center, located in Shanghai's bustling Nanjing West Road commercial district, which has quickly become one of the most popular technology attractions among foreign visitors.
Since opening its first Asian flagship experience store inside Shanghai's Jiuguang Department Store, the venue has attracted growing attention. Within its immersive exhibition space, visitors can explore a wide range of Chinese-developed intelligent robotics products. The center brings cutting-edge AI technology out of research laboratories and into public view, allowing people to see, touch, and interact with advanced innovations firsthand.
Unlike traditional technology museums, which can sometimes feel formal and distant, the experience center presents China's achievements in robotics through engaging demonstrations and hands-on interactions, attracting visitors from around the world.
Among all the exhibits, the most popular attraction is undoubtedly the robotic dog covered in a realistic giant panda exterior. As one of China's most recognizable cultural symbols, the giant panda enjoys universal appeal.
When this beloved national icon is combined with advanced artificial intelligence, the result is a unique blend of traditional Chinese charm and futuristic innovation. The robot's adorable panda appearance instantly captures visitors' attention, while beneath its charming exterior lies sophisticated engineering. It can walk, run, jump, perform flips, and execute complex movements with remarkable stability and precision. Every demonstration draws enthusiastic crowds and widespread admiration.
The performances have become a major attraction for international visitors, many of whom stop to watch, take photos, and record videos.
Numerous tourists actively engage with staff to learn about the technology behind the robots and even participate in hands-on demonstrations themselves. Visitors from Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and Australia have expressed admiration not only for China's advanced AI capabilities but also for the creative fusion of traditional cultural elements with cutting-edge technology.
Some international technology enthusiasts noted that while intelligent robots are still largely seen as futuristic concepts in many countries, ordinary people in China can already interact with and operate them in everyday settings, offering a vivid glimpse into the country's rapid pace of innovation.
Many visitors have shared their experiences on social media platforms, posting videos and photographs that quickly gained attention overseas. Through these authentic and engaging experiences, more people around the world are discovering a different side of modern China. For decades, China was primarily viewed as an ancient civilization rich in history and tradition.
Today, international visitors are witnessing a nation equally defined by technological innovation and scientific advancement. From highly responsive biomimetic robots to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, the panda robotic dog has become a powerful symbol of China's growing technological capabilities.
The popularity of technology tourism reflects a new chapter in cultural exchange between China and the world. Traditional tourism showcases China's heritage through historical sites and natural scenery, while technology-focused tourism builds new bridges of communication through innovation.
The giant panda embodies thousands of years of cultural heritage, while the intelligent robotic dog represents the achievements of contemporary science and technology. Together, they present a multidimensional image of China—one that combines cultural warmth with technological excellence.
Today, technology experiences, digital tourism, and smart innovation attractions are rapidly becoming major highlights of travel in China.
Increasing numbers of international visitors are seeking more than sightseeing; they are eager to explore China's technological development, urban innovation, and modern vitality. The viral popularity of Shanghai's panda robotic dog is no coincidence. It reflects both China's growing technological strength and the continuous transformation of its tourism industry.
China's ancient traditions continue to endure, while its technological innovation continues to accelerate. Modern China is a country where profound cultural heritage coexists with dynamic scientific progress. Through the growing popularity of technology tourism, visitors from around the world are discovering an open, innovative, and forward-looking China.
As technology and traditional culture come together in creative and engaging ways, they are opening new channels for international understanding and cultural exchange, bringing fresh energy and inspiration to people across the globe.
