Something big is happening in Hefei — and it’s not just for scientists. On August 22, the Future Science City Science & Tourism Development Conference was held on Science Island, where officials unveiled a bold vision: turning Hefei’s Future Science City into the world’s first immersive science tourism destination.

So, what does this mean?

Imagine being able to explore quantum labs, fusion reactors, deep-space exploration centers, and then step outside into beautiful countryside and cultural villages — all within Hefei.

The plan combines cutting-edge facilities like the EAST Tokamak (nicknamed “the artificial sun”) and the Steady High Magnetic Field Lab with eco-tourism, art villages, ancient heritage sites, and modern lifestyle hubs.

The goal: make science not only visible, but touchable, explorable, and fun for locals, students, and international visitors alike.

Highlights of the plan include:

✨ Science Exploration Routes – themed tours like “Journey Through the Universe” or “Hands-on Fusion” will let the public get close to major scientific projects usually seen only in research papers.

✨ Oriental Hyperloop Town – a hub for science-themed experiences, sci-fi entertainment, exhibitions, and even competitions.

✨ Luyang Lightyear Alley – a futuristic street blending Hefei’s 1,000-year history with cutting-edge tech, nightlife, music, and interactive art.

✨ Cultural & Nature Connections – think ancient Three Kingdoms ruins, the creative Cuigang Art Village, and Hefei’s big reservoirs turned into eco-tourist attractions.

It’s a rare blend: high-tech meets history, science meets art, future meets tradition.

👉 For expats in Hefei, this could mean weekend trips unlike anywhere else in China: exploring a fusion reactor by day, sipping coffee in an art village by night. And as the plan unfolds, there will be more festivals, science open days, and international events — making Hefei not just a tech hub, but a science tourism hotspot on the world map.

Would you be curious to visit a “science theme park” built around real nuclear fusion labs and space exploration projects? 🌍✨