A blend of science fiction, cutting-edge technology, and cultural exploration is set to captivate visitors at the Waving Cube sci-fi museum, which will open its doors on July 5.

Located along Jinhai Lake in Fengxian New City, Waving Cube is an architectural marvel. Its dual-shell structure, with flowing curves that mirror the lake's ripples, has earned it a Guinness World Record for the largest dual-shell structure science fiction museum.

The museum's nearly 30-meter cantilever design gives it the appearance of a city of the future, defying gravity as it appears to float in mid-air. Crowning the museum is a floating island garden, highlighted by a universe-themed art installation.

On the second floor, the Three-Body Future Academy offers an entertainment experience inspired by The Three-Body Problem novel by Liu Cixin. This trilogy, with its first book published in 2006, won the Hugo Award for Best Novel at the 73rd World Science Fiction Convention. Further enriching this space, a science theater explores the scientific concepts behind the novel, offering insights into its fascinating world.

Must-see highlights

1. Droplet Theater

The Droplet Theater is a state-of-the-art venue featuring a blend of technologies such as a lift stage, suspension devices, gauze projection, live performances, and laser light arrays. Its 81-piece mirrored matrix simulates the unfolding of multi-dimensional space, using gauze projection and laser effects to artistically recreate the breathtaking scenes from The Three-Body Problem series.

2. Natural Selection

Natural Selection, Earth’s space battleship from The Three-Body Problem, is featured as a 13-meter mechanical model at the museum, making it the largest official model in China. In its standard mode, it showcases rotating weapon rings and dynamic lighting. In self-check mode, it performs system diagnostics, propulsion, and weapon deployment, highlighting the intricate design of human battleships.

3. Dome Challenge Arena

The Dome Challenge Arena is an immersive interactive theater space, crafted with dome and floor projections. The full-view projection transports the audience to any corner of the universe, while the floor projection responds to their movements. Guided by virtual characters, participants work as a team to complete specified actions, embarking on creative cosmic adventures.

4. Deep Space Battle

Deep Space Battle offers a multi-player shooting experience. The motion cockpit provides flight simulation experiences and combat feedback, while the circular LED screen delivers visually stunning combat scenes, allowing visitors to experience the thrill and excitement of space battles firsthand.

5. Wallfacer Project Study Room

The Wallfacer Project Study Room uses various simulations and thought experiments to test participants' ability to develop covert strategies and make crisis decisions in complex environments, just like the Wallfacers — leaders chosen to counter the Trisolaran invasion in The Three-Body Problem.

Beyond these highlights, visitors can enjoy science fiction-themed artworks, explore Chinese science fiction literature, and savor coffee at the museum.

Ticket information

A combo ticket for the Three-Body Future Academy, Droplet Theater, and Deep Space Battle is priced at 148 yuan per person on weekdays, with a discounted rate of 138 yuan for eligible individuals such as children, students and seniors.

While Deep Space Battle cannot be purchased separately, other attractions can be.

Scan the QR code below to access the official mini program for ticket purchases.

Location: No 259 Hupan Road, Fengxian district

(Updated on July 3, 2025)

Sources: Waving Cube, Official WeChat account of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism at "shanghaitourism"