Yantai Museum pioneers cultural innovation to revitalize ancient heritage

(chinadaily.com.cn)| Updated : 2026-05-15

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In Yantai, located in East China's Shandong province, the city's museum is transforming ancient artifacts into contemporary cultural phenomena through the innovative use of digital technology, immersive exhibitions, and creative products.

By leveraging 3D modeling and virtual reality, the museum has digitally reconstructed thousands of relics, including Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) bronze vessels, allowing visitors to interact with historical objects in digital spaces. The "Digital Treasure Pavilion" presents 357 artifacts with 720-degree views, and 200 high-resolution digital models are accessible online, creating a permanent virtual exhibition.

These digital efforts are now in public spaces like the Dongshan Hotel, with plans to expand to high-speed rail stations and airports. Beyond digital innovation, the museum has redefined its exhibition approach by creating thematic narratives — from dragon-patterned ceramics to ancient Chinese fashion — offering visitors immersive historical experiences.

In cultural creativity, the museum has developed 120 original products through a multi-partner collaboration model. A Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) dragon motif has been integrated into contemporary apparel, and silkworm-shaped stress toys pay tribute to Yantai's centuries-old silk industry. Blind box phone charms inspired by local heritage have gained provincial recognition.

Through these initiatives, Yantai Museum is showing that cultural heritage can not only be preserved but also revitalized for modern audiences.