Shanghai Launches First Self-Service System for Foreign Tourists
Summary
- Revolutionary System: Shanghai introduces the "MeetChina Inbound Tourism Consumption Digital Screen" to enhance cultural and tourism experiences for foreign visitors.
- Streamlined Transactions: Foreign tourists can now make quick payments without complicated processes, thanks to a unique system that accepts bank cards from over 120 countries.
- Expansive Rollout Plans: The initiative aims to deploy 500 digital screens in prominent attractions across Shanghai, with plans to expand to 10,000 screens nationwide by next year.
In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing the experience of foreign tourists, Shanghai has officially launched the "MeetChina Inbound Tourism Consumption Digital Screen" on September 27. This cutting-edge self-service cultural and tourism consumption system is designed to fulfill the essential needs of visitors: understanding, choosing, viewing, and paying swiftly.
Collaborative Efforts
The project is spearheaded by the Industrial Development Department of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with the Bureau of International Exchange and Cooperation. The Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, along with the Huangpu District Government, also plays a pivotal role in its implementation. The initiative is a joint development venture involving China Digital Culture Group, Shanghai Normal University, and UnionPay Business.
First of Its Kind
As a trailblazing initiative, this self-service system marks the first of its kind in China specifically oriented towards foreign tourists. The debut location is set at Yuyuan Garden, a popular tourist destination, with intentions for further expansion to various hotspots across the city.
Integrated Services
The system boasts an array of features designed to enhance user experiences, including:
- Product Shopping Guides: Helping tourists identify items of interest effortlessly.
- Story Explanations: Providing cultural context and insights about various attractions.
- Multilingual Interaction: Ensuring effective communication across diverse language speakers.
- Overseas Bank Card Payments: Enabling tourists to make purchases effortlessly without the need to link accounts, scan QR codes, or download additional apps.
Simplified Payment Process
One of the standout features of this system is its ease of use when it comes to transactions. Tourists can pay using their foreign bank cards with a simple swipe. The system accepts payments in multiple currencies, making it accessible to visitors from over 120 countries. Remarkably, transactions up to RMB 1,000 can proceed without requiring a password, further streamlining the purchasing process.
Upon successful payment, the system automatically generates a verification voucher, which can be used to pick up purchased items at nearby physical stores. This efficient mechanism not only improves the shopping experience but also enhances the overall convenience for international travelers.
Future Expansion
In the initial phase, Shanghai is set to deploy 500 large screens at key tourist attractions such as Tianzifang, the Bund, and Nanjing Road. The ambitious plan aims for a nationwide rollout, targeting a total of 10,000 screens by the end of next year, thereby significantly boosting tourism infrastructure across the country.
Retail and Cultural Integration
The launch of the "MeetChina" system signifies a noteworthy step toward modernizing how foreign tourists interact with China’s rich cultural landscape. By merging technology with retail and tourism, Shanghai reaffirms its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for international guests.
Conclusion
The establishment of the "MeetChina Inbound Tourism Consumption Digital Screen" sets a new standard for tourism in China. With its innovative features and expansive rollout plans, this self-service system promises to enhance the tourist experience, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore and enjoy all that Shanghai has to offer. By providing seamless payment options and valuable cultural insights, this initiative not only strengthens Shanghai’s appeal as a global tourist destination but also enriches the interactions between visitors and the local culture.
As Shanghai continues to evolve as a prime location for international tourism, this initiative stands at the forefront, showcasing the endless possibilities that emerge when technology meets tourism.
