FOR those who have wanted to explore the Giza pyramids in Egypt, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, but don’t have the time and budget to travel to the eastern Mediterranean, there’s good news! The world phenomenal virtual reality (VR) show “Horizon of Khufu” is now available in Shenzhen, and it even grants access to restricted areas that have not been open to public. “Horizon of Khufu” made its South China debut at Sea World in Shekou on Dec. 24, offering audiences an immersive journey through space and time to explore the mysterious resting place of Pharaoh Khufu — the Great Pyramid of Giza, constructed more than 4,500 years ago during the Fourth Dynasty. The immersive VR journey opens up a previously forbidden realm, making a significant part of the Giza Plateau pyramids accessible to all, and unlocking a treasure trove of history for the public to explore. Equipped with VR headsets, participants will enjoy a 45-minute experience that lets them witness the funeral rites of the Egyptian king. Guests can physically move around and interact within a shared virtual reality space, in which players can even “climb up” the Great Pyramid for a stunning panoramic view of the Giza Plateau. The Solar Boat of King Khufu serves as the main mode of transport during the expedition in Egypt, taking visitors along the Nile River. As the boat sails, the reflections on the water, the trees along the riverbanks and the night sky all seem within reach. Developed by French company Excurio, following three years of research and on-site data collection, the VR expedition is full of scientific, cultural and ethnological references to unlock the era of the pharaohs. The French developer collaborated with Peter Der Manuelian, a professor of Egyptology, and his team from the Giza Project at Harvard University to make the project as accurate as possible, promising a deeply emotional and engaging exploration into the heart of Egyptian culture. During the exciting expedition, two virtual tour guides, Mona and Bastet the Egyptian cat deity, lead participants on a nighttime tour through the pyramid of Khufu, explaining the history and architecture of the monumental testament to Egyptian architectural genius. Since its world debut in June 2022 in France, the “Horizon of Khufu” VR show has attracted over 1 million visitors worldwide. It was introduced to China in May last year, touring Shanghai, Chengdu and Xi’an with a cumulative attendance of more than 300,000. Coinciding with the 60 anniversary of the establishment of Sino-French diplomatic relations, the VR project has been selected as a program for the 2024 Franco-Chinese Year of Cultural Tourism. The experience is suitable for people aged 8 and above. Children aged 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult, but please note that the accompanying adult cannot supervise or assist the child while in VR. Some participants might experience mild discomfort or disorientation after putting on the VR goggles, as is common with any VR experience. Venue: Boxin All Universe Immersive Exploration Center, Zone D, Sea World, Shekou, Nanshan District Metro: Line 2 or 12 to Sea World Station, Exit A(Claudia Wei) | 