Suzhou classical gardens go digital via cellphone apps

Suzhou in East China's Jiangsu province launched a number of digital items on Sept 8, including digital classical gardens, digital maps, and digital museums, local media outlets reported.

The panoramic digital model of classical gardens in Suzhou, which has collected real data via high-precision mapping, three-dimensional scanning, and high-definition aerial photography, demonstrated in detail the spatial layout, elements, colors, size, and textures of the gardens.

For example, the digital model of Tiger Hill presents the natural features and cultural relics within an area of 280,000 square meters. Seven gardens, including the Humble Administrator's Garden and Canglang Pavilion, were also revivified by the 720-degree panoramic virtual reality technology.

So far, historic buildings and rockeries in 33 classical gardens in Suzhou have been digitally modeled and made into digital products via 3D printing. In addition, using technologies such as holographic display and VR, the audience can experience classical garden night tours online.

To visit Suzhou classical gardens online: Open the "Su Zhou Dao" mobile app and find the "Digital Garden" channel. You will be given access to such services as a "720-degree Panoramic Tour of Classical Gardens", "3D Models of Suzhou Classical Gardens", and "Digitalized Classical Garden Night Tours".