Visitors take photos of a robot at the 20th Hangzhou Cultural and Creative Industries Expo. [Photo/Tide News]

The 20th Hangzhou Cultural and Creative Industries Expo opened on Nov 5 in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, bringing together nearly 6,000 cultural and creative brands from China and abroad. The event features five themed exhibition halls and attracts participants from more than 40 countries as well as representatives of nearly 10 international organizations and multinational companies.

A special exhibition marking the expo's 20th edition looks back on the development of Hangzhou's cultural industries through interactive installations, dynamic visuals, and robots.

Technology is a major focus this year. METAI Hub, described as the world's first offline AI application store, is showcasing 120 products, eight of which are making their debut in Hangzhou. Exhibits also include humanoid robots, robot dogs, and AI-powered ice cream machines. Other highlights include embodied intelligence projects from Zhejiang University, a digital exhibition combining AI with ancient grotto art, and an XR experience recreating West Lake during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279).

The expo also showcases China's online literature, film and television, and gaming industries, alongside international exhibitions showcasing Egyptian, British, and Polish cultures. Visitors can explore craft markets, traditional crafts, designer toys, and illustration exhibitions.

Industry events will focus on AI-generated short dramas, film and television production, and interactive games, bringing together more than 100 companies and 60 industry leaders to foster business partnerships.