The completely transformative impact of metaverse technology was explored on Sept 7 by Zhu Min, director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, at Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.

At Yuyuan Garden – celebrated as one of the top metaverse projects last year in East China's Shanghai – the integration of local culture with smart commerce is said to be creating a very engaging environment.

Visitors can immerse themselves in AR live-streams, collect digital souvenirs and interact with virtual experiences – such as lighting up digital loong-shaped lanterns.

On Nanjing Road, the fusion of AI digital avatars, cloud gaming and immersive experiences is widely seen as bringing new vitality to the historic shopping street.

With four distinct themes – city memories, cultural exhibitions, live performances and trendy markets – this blend of technology and content aims to enhance the overall shopping experience.

Zhu Min praised the advances – noting how the metaverse was enriching the shopper experience and reinforcing Shanghai's status as a premier global shopping destination.

He emphasized the need for continuing digital innovation to elevate the city's retail spaces further.