On the afternoon of November 26, users of the International Web Portal of Beijing and its "BeijingService" WeChat account gathered at Beijing Workers’ Stadium. The event served as a bridge helping expatriates better understand and integrate into Beijing. Participants from over 10 countries, including the United States, Peru, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, discovered Beijing's heritage and cutting-edge technologies showcased at the venue. Through detailed explanations and interactive exchanges, they also learned about the web portal’s services and functions.

A group photo of the participating users at the stadium

The Beijing Workers' Stadium was one of the 10 major buildings constructed to mark the 10th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Reopened in 2023 after reconstruction, it has become a new city landmark, functioning as a sports center, a cultural venue, and a commercial complex.

Lidia Elizabeth Quispe Pacombia, a Peruvian economist, linguist, and blogger, tries out a metaverse-powered project in GTVerse Center.

Several participating users try out a metaverse-powered project in GTVerse Center

In GTVerse Center, a metaverse experience area of the stadium, participants put on VR headsets to take part in a virtual penalty shootout against digital avatars of international football stars. They also visited the players' tunnel and explored the spectator stands, VIP boxes, and locker rooms. Guided by staff, they learned about the stadium's history and the stories behind its reconstruction.

Nabeela Kara, a teacher from New Zealand, and her boyfriend Ahmet Tanrikulu pose for a photo at the Beijing Workers' Stadium.

Nabeela Kara, a teacher from New Zealand who has lived in Beijing for years, and her boyfriend Ahmet Tanrikulu are loyal users of both the International Web Portal of Beijing and "BeijingService". Having personally witnessed the stadium's reconstruction, she said that although she had previously come here as a football fan, the tour revealed the high-tech side of the stadium—an experience she found particularly meaningful.

Felix Amiss, an architect from the United Kingdom, during an interview

Felix Amiss, an architect from the United Kingdom, praised the stadium's reconstruction from a professional standpoint. He said that the renovated stadium not only serves as an important international hub linking Beijing with the rest of the world, but also gives back to residents through its architecture and surrounding environment. He also commended the well-developed transport system around the venue, viewing it as a sign of Beijing's capacity as a megacity to incorporate all the resources, including technologies and transport facilities, for effective urban governance.

After the tour, participants shared their impressions of the visit and their experiences using the International Web Portal of Beijing and "BeijingService".

Participants share their user experience.

Lidia Elizabeth Quispe Pacombia, an economist, linguist, and blogger from Peru, spoke highly of the website's practical information. She said that the website offers detailed travel guides for first-time foreign visitors and timely policy updates, giving foreigners in Beijing clear guidance on study, internship, and employment procedures.

Eric Hamlin, a history teacher from the United States, said that he often uses the International Web Portal of Beijing to look up hutong guides, transport routes, and information on local attractions. He believed the website is highly valuable for both visitors and residents, and said he looks forward to discovering more city events through it. "We want to learn new things, because there's so much that goes on in Beijing. There are so many things to see," he added.

(Source: CRI Online)