Lotus flowers are in full bloom on West Lake. [Photo by Xiao Yisan/Tide News]

Hangzhou's UNESCO-listed West Lake has launched a series of artificial intelligence applications to improve heritage conservation and visitor services, marking a new chapter as the scenic area celebrates the 15th anniversary of its World Heritage inscription.

The "AI West Lake" initiative was unveiled on June 24 alongside China's first AI-powered cultural tourism storytelling space, bringing together 15 leading AI and tourism technology companies to showcase innovations for heritage sites.

New AI-powered services include an intelligent travel assistant that provides personalized itineraries, navigation, ticketing, and attraction information, as well as robot traffic police and AI-enhanced cultural experiences such as interactive night cruises.

Behind the scenes, AI is also strengthening heritage conservation. Smart monitoring systems now track water quality, visitor flows, and the condition of historical sites in real time, while sensors, drones, and digital mapping help detect potential risks and support preventive maintenance. Technologies including 3D scanning and digital archiving are also preserving cultural relics for future research and restoration.

Officials said the goal is to build West Lake into China's largest smart urban scenic area, using AI to better protect its cultural and natural heritage while making the World Heritage site more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. They added that opening more real-world scenarios for technology companies to test and refine AI applications could provide a model for other scenic destinations across the country.

A waterfowl rests on West Lake. [Photo by Xiao Yisan/Tide News]