An international media delegation participating in the 2025 “A Date with China” program visited Shenzhen from November 26 to 28. The city was presented as a hub where cutting-edge innovation harmoniously blends with an active lifestyle and entertainment.

Innovation in the Air: Drones and “Air Taxis”

The group explored the development of Shenzhen’s low-altitude aviation industry. The exhibition featured drones ranging from children’s toys to advanced intelligent devices capable of performing real tasks such as cleaning high-rise buildings and assisting in urban planning.

The excitement reached its peak at the Heli-Eastern base, where reporters and bloggers boarded “air taxis” to observe Yantian from above. A representative of Luohu District noted that drones are already being used for medical cargo delivery and cultural tourism.

Robotics and AI in Everyday Life

At the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, guests were offered a more playful interaction with technology. International media representatives played table tennis with robotic arms, took part in AI-powered football matches, and tasted coffee prepared by robot baristas.

British content creator Jason Lightfoot and Afghan blogger Hashem agreed that Shenzhen feels like a “futuristic world,” where robots demonstrate impressive precision.

Science, Infrastructure and Leisure

The visit also included a tour of the Innovation Center for Brain Science and Technology in Guangming District, where cutting-edge neuroscience is being developed. The center focuses on brain health and aging, studying autism and Alzheimer’s disease.

Even the act of reading received a technological upgrade at the Bao’an Library, where 28 “Xiaozhi” sorting robots automate the book return process.

The grand finale took place at Qianhai Snow World — the largest indoor ski resort in Asia — where guests enjoyed winter sports in a subtropical climate, symbolizing the blend of innovation and enjoyment.

ORIENT