A study tour group exploring Qingdao's cultural and educational resources visited U·SEA, an ocean park in Shinan district, on July 4, to experience how digital technology is transforming marine science education.

The digital ocean-themed park combines virtual technology with marine education to create an interactive learning environment for students, educators, and visitors.

The tour began with a time-travel-themed experience that used digital screens and motion platforms to simulate a journey through Earth's history. In the Jurassic-themed section, visitors explored the evolution of the oceans and marine life through interactive exhibits and immersive theaters.

The deep-sea-themed area recreates extreme marine environments, including seamounts, cold seeps, hydrothermal vents, and deep-sea trenches. The virtual scenes were developed based on scientific data and deep-sea exploration images collected by the Institute of Oceanology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, allowing visitors to learn about real marine ecosystems through interactive experiences.

The park also combines marine science with traditional culture. Inspired by the ancient Chinese classic Shanhaijing (The Classic of Mountains and Seas), one section uses digital displays to present imaginative marine creatures that blend traditional mythology with modern design.

By connecting scientific research, digital technology and cultural storytelling, U·SEA provides a new approach to marine study tours, helping young visitors explore the ocean through interactive learning.

The digital lighting effects bring sea creatures from ancient Chinese mythology back to life. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]

Visitors experience the simulated deep-sea environment created from real scientific data. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]