Revitalizing Historic Sites with 5G Technology: The Transformation of Chihkan Tower
Chihkan Tower, a designated national historic site, is set to undergo a modern transformation with the integration of 5G digital technology. The innovative project aims to create an immersive theater experience reminiscent of the “sunny beach 400 years ago.” This initiative comes in preparation for the 2024 Taiwan Cultural Creativity Expo, where Chihkan Tower will showcase a unique blend of history and cutting-edge technology.
In collaboration with the Tainan City Cultural Affairs Bureau, Chihkan Tower will offer visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the coastal ambiance of the region as it was centuries ago. Through the use of 5G technology, the site will recreate the sounds of waves crashing on the shores of the Tainan Inner Sea, providing a multi-sensory experience for all who visit.
Elements of the Experience:
The immersive theater experience at Chihkan Tower will encompass three key elements: the beach, the sunlight, and the passage of 400 years. The “beach” represents the convergence of land and sea, serving as a historical site and a vital space for the people of Tainan. The “sunlight” symbolizes the constant presence that has illuminated the area, with the changing light patterns reflecting the dynamic nature of the surroundings. The “400 years” signify the accumulation of time and history, forming the basis for a compelling historical narrative.
Interactive Experience:
Visitors entering the historic site will be able to engage in an interactive experience by scanning QR codes with their smartphones. Through virtual avatars, visitors can embody roles such as hunters, Formosan sika deer, or soaring birds, allowing them to interact with the surroundings and immerse themselves in the simulated beach environment. The experience will feature four distinct time sequences – morning, noon, dusk, and night – offering a comprehensive exploration of the historical setting.
The use of 5G connectivity will enable real-time processing of interactive elements, projecting visitors’ actions onto the curtains of Chihkan Tower. This seamless integration of technology will provide a glimpse into the fast-paced and convenient world of the 5G era, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Innovative Restoration Approach:
In conjunction with the ongoing restoration efforts at Chihkan Tower’s Sea God Temple, the Cultural Affairs Bureau has adopted a novel approach to engage the public in the restoration process. By transforming the construction scaffolding into a large curtain, the bureau has created a panoramic immersive theater experience at the site. This innovative concept aims to dispel the notion that heritage restoration is confined to fenced-off construction sites, offering visitors a unique way to witness the preservation efforts firsthand.
Historical Significance:
One of the must-see attractions at Chihkan Tower is the “Imperial Steed Tablet,” which dates back to the Lin Shuangwen Rebellion of 1786 during the Qing Dynasty. The tablet commemorates the swift suppression of the rebellion by General Fuk’anggan, who was dispatched by the Qing court to restore order in the region. The tablet, inscribed with poetry by Emperor Qianlong, originally stood near the Fuk’anggan Shrine in the former city of “Shanzaiwei” and was later relocated to Chihkan Tower. Positioned atop the “Imperial Steed,” the projection equipment, utilizing high-lumen projectors similar to those used in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, creates a captivating visual juxtaposition of ancient history and modern technology.
Through the use of light and shadow technology, visitors can experience the historical vibrancy of the Tainan region, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Conclusion:
The revitalization of historic sites with 5G technology represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with history in a dynamic and interactive manner. Chihkan Tower’s transformation into an immersive theater experience showcases the potential of technology to breathe new life into heritage sites, creating a bridge between the past and the present for generations to come. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of 5G in cultural preservation efforts sets a precedent for how historical sites can be preserved and celebrated in the digital age.