A visitor tries out a VR device to experience the Liangzhu civilization. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

In Hangzhou's Yuhang district, the 5,000-year-old Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — once the cradle of early Chinese civilization — now coexist with modern innovation parks and creative communities.

Through a balance of heritage preservation and urban vitality, Yuhang has transformed Liangzhu into a living cultural landmark where tradition and technology flourish together.

Advanced monitoring systems, including sensors, cameras, and drones, protect the ancient earthen sites, while AR and VR technology allow visitors to virtually walk through Neolithic palaces and workshops in vivid detail. Every artifact, from jade to pottery, is being digitally archived — ensuring the legacy of Liangzhu endures in data as well as in memory.

Beyond preservation, Liangzhu has evolved into a hub for digital creativity. The Liangzhu Cultural Corridor connects history with high-tech industries, attracting over 1,000 companies in animation, digital art, and AI-driven content creation. Supported by robust cultural policies and dedicated funds, Yuhang's cultural sector generated more than 600 billion yuan ($84.26 billion) in revenue in 2024, accounting for over half of Hangzhou's total.

Today, Liangzhu is also a livable and creative magnet for young talent. Around Yuhu Lake, art markets, open-air galleries, and riverside installations bring history into everyday life. As thousands of creators settle in the Liangzhu Digital Cultural Community, the ancient site has become a symbol of China's new urban ideal — where people can feel history and create the future at the same time.

The Yuhu Park opened last year is designed for residents living near the Liangzhu site. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]