An aerial view of the Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins. [Photo/VCG]

As 2026 marks the 90th anniversary of the discovery of the Liangzhu ruins, visitors can learn about archaeologist Shi Xingeng (1911–1939) at a memorial hall in Liangzhu subdistrict, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, ahead of the fourth Liangzhu Forum.

In 1936, Shi began the first excavations in his hometown, uncovering black pottery fragments that helped open the door to a 5,000-year-old civilization. The memorial hall recreates his father's old teahouse and displays historical photographs, manuscripts, and pottery, tracing Shi's excavation work and efforts to protect his research records.

An interactive digital exhibition brings Shi back to life through digital human technology, allowing visitors to hear him recount the excavations in both Mandarin and the local Liangzhu dialect.

Over the past 90 years, generations of archaeologists have continued to protect and study the Liangzhu ruins, developing an approach that integrates preservation, research, cultural exchanges, and transmission.

Opening on Oct 18, the fourth Liangzhu Forum will bring together international experts to explore heritage protection and development, as well as ways to strengthen global cooperation in safeguarding cultural heritage.