About the Exhibit

Explores what life is like for children in China today through six different immersive environments. In the school, children will learn to write Chinese characters. Children will take on the role of a researcher at the panda reserve and discover how the people of China are caring for this endangered species. As food is an important cultural experience in China, children will shop in a traditional neighborhood market filled with a variety of fish, fruits and vegetables and then prepare a healthy meal while working in a traditional restaurant. In the home, visitors will learn how families celebrate the Chinese New Year and participate in a daily dragon parade led by a traditional dragon headdress.

Ancient practices will be explored in modern ways as computer interactives invite children to experience the art of papercutting, discover their lunar calendar animal and play traditional musical instruments. A key focus of the exhibit will be the story of Confucius, still considered to be a hero to children in China today. Confucius’ beliefs about the importance of family, education and traditions have been at the center of Chinese culture for over 2,500 years and are interwoven into the exhibit.