Glossary
Alipay
A widely used mobile payment and digital wallet platform in China, enabling users to make payments, transfer money, and access various financial services.
Example:
I used Alipay to pay for my street food, my taxi ride, and even my groceries, all with a quick scan of a QR code.
Audio Guides
Handheld devices or apps that provide additional information and context about museum exhibits, enhancing the visitor's understanding.
Example:
When visiting the Forbidden City, I used an Audio Guide to learn fascinating stories behind each palace and artifact.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Technology that overlays digital information or virtual objects onto the real world, enhancing a user's perception of their physical surroundings.
Example:
Using an Augmented Reality app on my phone, I could see ancient artifacts come to life with animated explanations right on top of the real display.
Delivery Services
Platforms that facilitate the delivery of goods, such as online shopping purchases, food, groceries, and parcels, directly to a user's location.
Example:
Thanks to efficient Delivery Services, I can get my favorite restaurant meal or a new book delivered right to my apartment door.
Didi Chuxing
A major ride-sharing and transportation service platform in China, offering various options from taxis to private cars.
Example:
When I needed to get across Beijing quickly, I booked a car through Didi Chuxing.
Digital Ticketing
A system that allows visitors to purchase museum tickets and pay for services electronically, reducing wait times and improving convenience.
Example:
Thanks to Digital Ticketing, I skipped the long line at the Shanghai Museum and went straight to the entrance.
JD.com
A major Chinese e-commerce company known for its direct sales model, fast delivery, and wide range of authentic products, especially electronics.
Example:
When I needed a new laptop quickly, I ordered it from JD.com because of their reliable and speedy delivery.
Meituan (Ride-Sharing)
A comprehensive service platform in China that includes ride-sharing options, alongside food delivery and other local services.
Example:
I used the Meituan app not only to order dinner but also to hail a taxi afterwards.
Online Banking
The use of mobile applications and digital platforms to manage financial transactions, check balances, and make payments without visiting a physical bank.
Example:
With Online Banking, I can easily transfer money to my friends or pay my utility bills from my phone, even late at night.
Online Resources
Digital materials like virtual tours and educational videos that allow users to explore museums and learn about exhibits remotely.
Example:
Before my trip, I used the museum's Online Resources to take a virtual tour and decide which exhibits I wanted to see in person.
Online Shopping
The process of purchasing goods and services over the internet through e-commerce platforms, offering convenience and a wide selection of products.
Example:
I do most of my gift shopping through Online Shopping because it's so easy to compare prices and find unique items.
Pinduoduo
A Chinese e-commerce platform known for its group buying model, offering discounted prices, and popular among younger consumers.
Example:
My friends and I teamed up on Pinduoduo to get a huge discount on a bulk order of snacks.
Ride-Sharing
Services that allow users to book and pay for private transportation through a mobile app, connecting passengers with drivers.
Example:
Instead of waiting for a bus, I used a Ride-Sharing app to quickly get to the train station.
Social Media (Museums)
Platforms used by museums to promote exhibits, share updates, and interact with visitors, fostering engagement and outreach.
Example:
The National Museum of China uses Social Media to announce new exhibitions and host Q&A sessions with curators.
Taobao
A large Chinese online shopping platform known for its vast selection of products, ranging from clothing to electronics.
Example:
I found a really unique phone case and some trendy clothes on Taobao for a great price.
Tmall
An online retail platform in China that focuses on high-end and brand-name products, often used by international brands to sell directly to Chinese consumers.
Example:
I bought my favorite international brand of sneakers directly from their official store on Tmall.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Technology that creates a simulated, immersive environment, allowing users to experience virtual tours or historical reconstructions as if they were there.
Example:
At the Great Wall Museum, I put on a headset and experienced a Virtual Reality tour of remote sections of the Wall, feeling like I was actually climbing it.
WeChat Pay
A popular mobile payment service integrated within the WeChat messaging app, allowing users to make payments, send money, and access a wide range of services.
Example:
My friend sent me money instantly through WeChat Pay when I forgot my wallet at home.