A young man takes a photo during his tour on Sept 15. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In the museum, visitors can take a close look at the once innovative products developed by the first generation Zhongguancun innovators in shabby office buildings.

These products have long become antiques as innovation never stops, however, the qualities and characteristics they represent are still worth absorbing for most of us.

"It took half a year for our volunteers to build the hall of fame," introduced Su Di, founder of the museum, "We are also working on a documentary recording 50 rags to riches tales of normal people, in order to preserve their legacies."

Their efforts gave birth to a large number of well-received products such as Chinese typewriters, cellular phones, mobile chips, office software and medical devices.

Zhongguancun's early "innovations" on display [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"Sooner or later, all the once new products will 'die' eventually, including those currently being debugged and tested in our laboratories," Feng Xin, founder of internet video giant Baofeng Technology, said in the museum," But we Zhongguancun entrepreneurs will keep embarking on new courses, targeting the leading edges of technology."

Zhongguancun enterprises have been in the forefront of the 5G network, facial recognition, computer vision, search engines and other emerging technologies that can reshape our future.

Especially in recent years, several new generation technology enterprises such as JD, Xiaomi, Didi, SenseTime and Megvii have been rapidly expanding their international presence. Organizers of the museum are figuring out how to showcase these intangible achievements in the best way.

"I am one of the first generation of Zhongguancun entrepreneurs," said Dai Huanzhong, president of Huaxun Group, when visiting the museum on Sept 15.

"Although I have passed my torch to young successors, my entrepreneurship spirit never rest," said the old man, "Entrepreneurship in not just an important part of the China dream, but a rewarding marathon for all of us."

The museum will make an excellent place for young entrepreneurs to reflect on their past and figure out their future.

There is a QR code by the entrance. Visitors can use their mobile devices to scan it and buy tickets. Payment is by donation, and money raised will be used for the museum’s daily maintenance, reads a notice above the QR code.

Address: Zhongguancun Inno Way, Suzhou Road, Haidian district, Beijing