During the immersive session, participants explored two VR games designed by UNNC students and faculty: an interactive rowing game set in an ancient Ningbo ferry and a digital reconstruction of a historic opera stage. These experiences allowed visitors to “travel through time” and engage with Ningbo’s past in an interactive and memorable way.

A young participant from Huatai Primary School shared, “Putting on the VR headset felt like stepping into ancient Ningbo. The bird’s-eye view was incredible—it was as if history woke up in front of my eyes!”

The open day represented more than a single event—it symbolized a shift toward opening academic resources to the public. Established through collaboration between the UNNC Library and the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the lab transforms specialized research into accessible and engaging formats, serving as a bridge between global technology and local culture.

The Digital Humanities Lab focuses on digitally preserving Ningbo’s historical legacy through interdisciplinary projects. Recent achievements include a provincial-level project on the digital conservation of the Zhejiang Customs Site Museum and an award-winning Ningbo Historical Digital Platform that integrates maps, archaeology, and urban development data. In late 2024, the lab also co-hosted an exhibition on Ningbo’s zaojing, using 3D modeling to reveal the artistry of traditional architecture.

By merging technology and humanities, UNNC continues to contribute to Ningbo’s cultural development while strengthening the city’s global connections. Initiatives like this open day highlight the growing role of digital innovation in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.