A humanoid robot band plays music at the opening of the 2026 World Intelligence Expo in Tianjin on May 28. ZOU HONG/CHINA DAILY
The rapid advancement of large artificial intelligence models and embodied intelligence is fueling upgrades in hardware and scenario integration, injecting fresh vitality into the cultural and tourism sector, experts said.
At the recent Intelligent Robot Carnival, operators used virtual reality to remotely control humanoid robots from Shiyun Technology (Tianjin) Co for live boxing matches, winning warm applause from on-site spectators. The event took place in Hexi district from May 28 through May 31 in Tianjin, alongside the 2026 World Intelligence Expo.
"The entire experience was incredibly fulfilling and eye-opening. Having never joined tech or cultural tourism events before, I was fascinated by the mix of cutting-edge tech, robot shows and fun interactions," said Muhammed Radhiat Ibrahim, a Nigerian art student at Tiangong University, adding advanced technologies have become easy and fun for ordinary visitors.
A major highlight of the expo is its close-contact experience featuring indoor immersive displays plus outdoor live performances, enabling visitors to interact closely with robots, said Cui Wei, deputy secretary-general of the Tianjin Municipal Government.
