Amidst China’s modern urban development which continues to astonish the world special emphasis has been placed on integrating technology into people’s daily lives. A striking example of this is the Wensan Digital Life Street District, located in the city of Hangzhou, in China’s eastern Zhejiang Province.

Recently, a group of Sri Lankan journalists had the opportunity to visit and experience this district firsthand, with the support of the China Cultural Centre in Sri Lanka. As a member of this media delegation, I was able to explore the Wensan Digital Life Street and study its features. It is far from an ordinary commercial street; I realized that it is a unique environment that brings together artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, digital entertainment, and modern consumer services within a single urban space. It did not take long to realize that this street district could be viewed as a new experiment one that brings China’s digital economy closer to the daily lives of its people.

From an Old Electronics Trading Street to a Digital City

Wensan Street has a long history. About two decades ago, it served as the most prominent hub for computer and electronics trading in the city of Hangzhou. People from various parts of China would travel here specifically to purchase computers, mobile phones, electrical appliances, and IT-related products. My research revealed that, during that period, Wensan Street had established itself as a significant landmark within China’s digital technology business sector.

However, with the rapid growth of online retail and e-commerce, traditional electronics stores began to face new challenges. Many merchants adapted their business models, while others shifted toward online commerce. In response to this situation, authorities in the Xihu District of Hangzhou launched an initiative to modernize Wensan Street.

On December 30, 2022, the “Wensan Digital Life Street” zone was officially opened. The objective was to transform a traditional commercial street into a modern urban environment that integrates technology, entertainment, shopping, and social interaction.

A Street Brought to Life by Artificial Intelligence

One of the most compelling features of Wensan Digital Life Street is the opportunity it provides for the public to experience artificial intelligence and robotics firsthand. At the various technology experience centers located there, robots are showcased performing a wide range of tasks some engage in dance, while others demonstrate athletic skills. Here, one can also encounter machines equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology capable of conversing with people and providing advice.

Visitors have the opportunity to observe, in particular, the activities of robotic dogs, the behaviors of humanoid robots, and the operations of autonomous machines. According to data from 2026, over 5,000 people engage daily with these new AI-driven experiences in this street zone.

A key feature here is that technology is not merely confined to exhibits in a museum; instead, people are given the chance to touch, experiment with, and experience the benefits of these innovations firsthand.

AR and VR technology, which bridges the virtual world and the real world.

Another significant feature of Venson Digital Life Street is the use of AR and VR technology. AR, or Augmented Reality, is a technology that overlays digital images, information, and animations onto the real world. VR, or Virtual Reality, allows users to experience a completely virtual environment.

Through these technologies, visitors to the street can enjoy experiences that transcend the ordinary environment. For instance, by using an AR device or a compatible mobile application, one can view digital visuals related to a specific shop while standing in front of it. In certain locations, characters from outer space, animations, and other virtual creations are integrated into the real-world setting.

This transforms a simple shopping trip into an entertaining, tech-infused excursion. An AR guidance program, introduced in 2023, enables visitors to identify shops and points of interest along the street, while also providing opportunities to interact with digital content. Digital Commerce and New Consumer Experiences

This commercial zone is more than just a showcase for digital technology; it serves as a hub for experimenting with new business models. The primary focus here is to bring digital tech products, smart devices, and digital content closer to the public.

A notable feature of this zone is the inclusion of retail spaces where visitors can experience products from major tech companies such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and ByteDance.

Furthermore, the zone offers experiences including:

•           AI-powered retail services.

•           Automated vending machines and autonomous supermarkets.

•           Product information provided by digital avatars.

•           Trying on clothing and beauty products using AR (Augmented Reality) technology.

•           VR (Virtual Reality) gaming and virtual concerts.

•           Testing modern smart home appliances.

It is truly remarkable how this initiative seeks to bridge traditional commerce with the new digital economy. A ‘Smart Street’ Designed for Public Convenience

Another key objective behind the development of the ‘Wenson Digital Life Street’ is to make people’s daily activities more convenient. A notable feature is the introduction of a wide range of smart urban amenities.

Smart bus stops, which provide information on bus arrival times, are a highlight. The street is also equipped with features that use audible signals to alert pedestrians crossing the road about safety.

Furthermore, smart parking systems enable users to locate available parking spaces and identify the routes to reach them. We were impressed to find Wi-Fi connectivity, smart lighting systems, and digital information boards installed throughout the street. Through such facilities, technology is directly integrated into the daily lives of the public.

 A New Path Toward Economic Development

Through the Wensan Digital Life Street zone, the city of Hangzhou aims to provide more than just modern technological experiences; it also seeks to generate new business opportunities, employment, and investment.

According to a Chinese report released in June 2026, daily foot traffic in this zone has exceeded 80,000, with total monthly consumer spending surpassing 1.2 billion Yuan.

Another significant finding in the report is that digital consumer spending within the zone accounts for over 60 percent of the total. Furthermore, more than 50 IT application scenarios incorporating AI, 5G-A, and the Metaverse have been implemented. It is also reported that over 1,500 new jobs related to the digital economy have been created.

These figures demonstrate how technological innovation can contribute to boosting business activity and enhancing consumer appeal within a city. The Message from Wensan Digital Street to the World

In observing the Wensan Digital Life Street zone, I was able to identify several significant points, which are worth noting:

01-       The potential to transform a traditional commercial hub into one driven by a new, technology-based economy.

02-       The fact that modern technology need not be something distant from the public; rather, it can be integrated into their daily lives.

03-       The realization that urban development encompasses more than just buildings and roads it also involves people’s experiences, entertainment, business opportunities, and overall quality of life.

However, when developing such digital urban models, careful attention must also be paid to personal data protection, equitable access to digital facilities, and the reliability of technical services.

Ultimately, it can be said that Wensan Digital Life Street in Hangzhou, China, serves as a real-world testing ground for the concept of a “city of the future.” In particular, an old street once renowned for the trade of computers and mobile phones has transformed into a modern urban space that integrates artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital consumer services. As I walked through the ‘Wenson Digital Life Street’ zone, I realized that this serves as a significant example for the world not only illustrating the trajectory of China’s digital economy but also demonstrating how urban living, commerce, and leisure might evolve in the future.

Part Eight

Note by

Chandana Wijekoon