Tongzhou district in Nantong recently launched its first batch of popular science education destinations.

Boasting over 2 million plants of more than 1,000 species, the Zhouji Dream Island serves as a repository of global botanical knowledge. It has established several specialized spots for plant-related science popularization.

Colorful flowers are displayed at the entrance of the Zhouji Green Expo Garden. [Photo/WeChat account: wxtzfb]

The Zhouji Green Expo Garden is home to over 3,000 rare plant species from across the globe. Its 16 themed exhibition halls offer visitors a fascinating exploration of nature. One standout hall displays over 800 biological fossil specimens, spanning from the Cambrian (about 550 million years ago) to the Cretaceous (65 million years ago).

The urban exhibition hall of Tongzhou showcases the district's cultural heritage, industrial development, planning and construction blueprint, and ecological civilization achievements.

Using 5D technology, the rice culture experience hall in the Fishing Bay scenic area of Shigang town allows visitors to trace rice culture's evolution. It also arranges engaging interactive games to deepen their rice knowledge. Hands-on experiences operating rice-screening machines will allow people to appreciate the technological drive behind rural advancement.

At the aviation hall in Xingdong sub-district, visitors can scroll through a screen to trace the century-long history of aviation, from the Wright brothers' first flight to China's large aircraft. They can also click on an AI mirror to "try on" professional aviation costumes, participate in quizzes on aerodynamics, and enjoy virtual reality explorations of the aviation world.