Exhibition on ancient Xinjiang ruins extends, new immersive experiences added

english.shanghai.gov.cn| August 04, 2025

An art installation themed around the ancient Silk Road.jpg — An art installation themed around the ancient Silk Road. [Photo/Alight Room Lafayette Culture Space]

The Seven Days of the Cad'ota: Xinjiang Niya Ruins Immersive Exhibition, China's first digital exhibition that spotlights the Niya ruins site in the country's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, will extend to Aug 31 with new immersive experiences at Shanghai's Alight Room Lafayette Culture Space.

The Niya ruins, situated on the southern edge of Xinjiang's Taklimakan Desert, are the remains of the Jingjue Kingdom (known as Cad'ota in the native language) from the Han (206 BC-AD 220) and Jin (265-420) dynasties.

Niya was once a thriving oasis and a major commercial center on the southern branch of the Silk Road. The archaeological site has drawn wide interest because of its legendary findings in the depths of the desert, historical mysteries and cultural heritage.

Featuring over 100 precious artifacts, the exhibition in Shanghai leverages cutting-edge technologies such as XR and AI to create interactive experiences, offering visitors a novel exploration of the ancient Silk Road.

Visitors can experience dynamic light and shadow displays, with a 360-degree panoramic screen enhancing the experience. Furthermore, the third floor of the exhibition hall features a reconstruction of the Jingjue ancient city.

The exhibition features traditional dances from the ethnic groups of Xinjiang.jpg — The exhibition features traditional dances from the ethnic groups of Xinjiang. [Photo/Alight Room Lafayette Culture Space]

A new immersive theater showcases a variety of cultural performances such as dances featuring characters from ancient Jingjue Kingdom every weekend and on national holidays. Audiences can enjoy a truly engaging experience with interactive storylines, folk dances, and ritual music.

As part of the summer activities, a special educational program designed for children aged 6-12 has also been launched. This program allows children to become little archaeologists and explore a simulated desert environment of the Niya ruins.

Kids dig for treasure in the sand.jpg — Kids dig for treasure in the sand. [Photo/Alight Room Lafayette Culture Space]

If you go

Exhibition dates: Until Aug 31
Opening hours: Daily from 9 am – 7 pm
Location: No 323 Fuxing Road, Huangpu district
Ticket purchase: Available through the official WeChat mini program (search for "Alight Room拉法耶")

Sources: Alight Room Lafayette Culture Space, WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Huangpu district committee at "shhuangpu"