Tourism in the Chinese mainland is getting a high-tech makeover, as robots and AI technologies are becoming an integral part of visitor experiences in scenic areas across the country. From robot-guided tours to exoskeleton-assisted hikes, travelers are enjoying a new blend of traditional sightseeing and cutting-edge innovation.
During the recent May Day holiday, one of the busiest travel periods in the Chinese mainland, tourists witnessed firsthand how technology is enhancing their journeys. In the Shichuan Ancient Pear Orchard in Gaolan County, northwest China’s Gansu Province, agile robots led visitors through the orchard’s picturesque sights, showcasing impressive obstacle avoidance and terrain navigation skills.
“I was pleasantly surprised to interact with these robots in such a historic setting,” said a visitor named Zhang. “Shaking hands with a robot that listens and responds just like a person was an unforgettable experience.”
Similarly, at Mount Tai, a famous scenic spot in Shandong Province, exoskeleton robots became a hit among hikers. These wearable devices reduce physical strain by sensing the user’s movements and providing mechanical support to key body parts. With the assistance of these exoskeletons, hikers could conquer steep trails in half the usual time, transforming a three-hour hike into a less strenuous adventure.
“Our exoskeleton robots were rented out every day, with some tourists waiting for up to two hours,” said Li Gang, a manager at the Taishan Cultural Tourism Group. Priced affordably for visitors, these devices not only eased the physical demands of hiking but also enhanced safety by monitoring users’ physical conditions and offering emergency assistance.
The integration of AI doesn’t stop at entertainment and assistance. In the Beijing (Tongzhou) Grand Canal Cultural Tourism Scenic Area, a four-wheeled robot named Xiaoyu is being tested for patrol and security tasks. Equipped with thermal imaging and temperature-sensitive cameras, Xiaoyu can detect potential fire hazards, monitor the health of trees, and provide timely safety alerts to tourists.
The widespread adoption of robots in tourism aligns with the Chinese mainland’s initiative to stimulate consumption through AI applications, as outlined by the State Council. During the holiday period, millions of travelers engaged with AI-powered experiences, highlighting a significant shift in how people explore and enjoy tourist destinations.
These technological advancements are reshaping the tourism industry, blurring the lines between humans and machines, and unlocking new possibilities for travel experiences. As robots continue to walk into scenic areas across the Chinese mainland, they serve as catalysts for an upgrade in cultural tourism services, enhancing both the enjoyment and safety of visitors.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
