West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
West Lake, also known as Qiantang Lake, is located at No.1 Longjing Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. On June 24, 2011, the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou was inscribed on the World Heritage List. It is one of the first nationally designated key scenic spots in mainland China. It is also one of China’s major freshwater lakes. The West Lake combines natural and humanistic aesthetics. Since the 9th century, West Lake has been an inspiration for Chinese poets, painters, and philosophers. Mythological novels around the West Lake have also emerged in an endless stream, the most famous is the legend of the White Snake, which adds a different kind of mysterious color to the West Lake. At present, SDG goals have been achieved through relevant digital technologies for Sustainable Cities and Communities. For example, the West Lake Scenic Area has built a tourist flow monitoring system, which utilizes technologies such as real-time monitoring systems and infrared sensing. The sustainable development of the scenic spot is guaranteed. At the same time, through high-precision 3D scanning and modeling technology, the historic buildings and cultural landscapes of the West Lake are digitally archived, providing detailed data support for the restoration and research of cultural relics.
Hongcun Village is an administrative village located in Hongcun Town, Yi County, Huangshan City, Anhui Province, China. It sits at the foot of Huangshan Mountain in southern Anhui Province. On November 30, 2000, Hongcun was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. The village is known for its well-preserved historical architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It features a unique water system and a distinctive layout resembling the shape of an ox, making it a representative example of traditional Huizhou residential design. With its elegant scenery and classic Hui-style architecture, Hongcun has long attracted artists from both China and abroad for photography and painting. In recent years, digital technologies have played an important role in the preservation and development of Hongcun, supporting the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The Unity3D virtual reality engine has been used to integrate 3D modeling and other digital tools in the development of a digital display platform for the ancient village. This approach explores new strategies for showcasing intangible cultural heritage, offering innovative perspectives for the protection, inheritance, and revitalization of traditional villages.
The Jatiluwih rice terraces comprise over 600 hectares of rice fields following the flowing hillside topography of the Batukaru mountain range. These are well-maintained by traditional water management cooperatives dating back to the 9th century! Jatiluwih is derived from two words. Jati means “real” and Luwih means “good” or “beautiful”. So even the name in the local language lets you know this place is beautiful. When you drive the narrow, winding road to Jatiluwih, you’ll see the beautiful panoramas along the road. This area is the only place in the world that has three annual rice harvests.
A beautiful and old Hindu temple which hosts rituals. The temple has holy springs in which devotees bathe.
Pura Taman Ayun is a compound of Balinese temple and garden located in Mengwi district in Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia. Its water features are an integral part of the local Subak system
Fountain waterspout statues in Goa Gajah or Elephant Cave, a sacred bathing pool near Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Subak, Ancient Water Irrigation System, Bali
Culture,Immovable Culture Heritage,Tourism
The cultural landscape of Bali consists of lowland rice terraces and their temples, covering a 19,500-hectare area. The temples act as focal points within this cooperative water management system of canals and weirs, known as Subak. Although the exact date of its origin is unknown, evidence suggests the system has existed since 800 of the Saka Calendar, or 882 AD. Learning from the Subak system reflects the philosophical principle of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasises the balance between spirituality, the human world, and mother nature.
Zanskar is a high altitude semi-desert lying on the Northern flank of the Great-Himalayan Range. This mountains range acts as a climatic barrier protecting Ladakh and Zanskar from most of the monsoon, resulting in a pleasantly warm and dry climate in the summer. Zanskar is a subdistrict of tehsil of the Kargil district, which lies in the Indian Union territory of Ladakh. The Zanskar Range is a mountain range in the UT of Ladakh that separates Zanskar from Ladakh. It covers an area of some 7,000 square kilometers, at a elevation of 3,500-7,135 meters. The first, the Doda, has its source near the Penzi-La mountain pass and then flows south-eastwards along the main valley leading towards Padum, the capital of Zanskar.
Doe watching for danger. Grey Goral (Naemorhedus goral). Tsarap valley, Zanskar, India
The heritage Sani Kani Khar was built date back to the time of the famous kushan emperor Kanishka in 2nd century AD and is said to be the oldest stupa of Ladakh. It is also believed that famous Indian mahasiddah Naropa 966-1041 AD who was a celebrated Indian Buddhist yogi from renowned Vikramshila University in Bihar meditated under the Kanishka Stupa. Sani is a sacred place due to its having been visited and blessed by Guru Padmasambhava who is said to have dwelt for 5 years in a small Gyamchot Lakhang. Annual Sani Nesjal festival is held in August every year during which sacred mask dance is performed besides monks from all the monestary of Zanskar assembled during Sani Kangyour in May and recite the whole volume of Kangyour.
The Phuktal Monastery is built around a natural cave, which is believed to have been visited by numerous sages, scholars, translators, and monks around 2,550 years ago. The remote location of the monastery was ideal for monks looking for peace and solitude to meditate. The present Phuktal Gompa, of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, was established in the early 15th century by Jangsem Sherap Zangpo, a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa. Tsongkhapa was the founder of Gelug, which is one of the newest schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
Located in Ladakh, India, along the Zanskar River, the Zanskar Valley is a remote and pristine region known for its stunning landscape, rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, and unique ecological features. The high-altitude Himalayan valley is distinguished by dramatic gorges, ancient monasteries, and unique architecture. Its natural beauty and cultural importance make it a valuable heritage site, offering insights into the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature in an extreme environment.
A Hyacinth Macaw, the largest flying parrot species in its natural habitat, Brazil’s Pantanal. Natural to South America, the Hyacinth Macaw is a vulnerable species whose presence in the Pantanal reflects the region's vital role in supporting threatened wildlife and maintaining ecological diversity.
A group of capybaras, the world’s largest rodents. As highly social and semi-aquatic animals, capybaras are a common sight in this vast wetland, where they contribute to the health of the ecosystem through their grazing and interactions with predators.
Beach located in Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco, Brazil
Loggerhead sea turtle with diver in the background, Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park
A loggerhead sea turtle in Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park, Pernambuco, Brazil. These turtles are listed as vulnerable due to threats such as bycatch, habitat degradation and climate change. Fernando de Noronha serves as a crucial feeding and nesting area for several sea turtle species, protected under strict conservation regulations. Encounters like this highlight the importance of marine protected areas in supporting biodiversity and fostering sustainable ecotourism practices.
Two Brothers Rock beach in Fernando de Noronha
Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves
The Brazilian Atlantic Islands, including the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago and Atol das Rocas Reserves, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites located off the northeastern coast of Brazil. These remote oceanic islands are recognised for their exceptional natural beauty and ecological importance. The region hosts some of the richest marine biodiversity in the South Atlantic, including critical breeding and feeding grounds for sea turtles, reef fish, sharks and marine mammals such as dolphins. The islands also support unique terrestrial species and nesting seabirds, many of which are endemic or threatened. These reserves offer a rare opportunity to observe natural ecological processes in action. However, they remain vulnerable to human activities, including overfishing, tourism pressure and climate change impacts such as coral bleaching and sea-level rise. This digital representation serves as an educational tool to highlight the ecological value and fragility of these islands and foster greater public engagement in marine conservation. It supports Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, which seeks to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources. Promoting awareness of these vital ecosystems is a key step toward ensuring their long-term protection.
Federal level Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Aerial photography of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. White sand dunes meet seasonal rainwater lagoons, creating an extraordinary desert-like landscape interspersed with freshwater pools.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, located in the northeastern state of Maranhão, Brazil, is a unique protected area where vast, white sand dunes meet seasonal rainwater lagoons, creating an extraordinary desert-like landscape interspersed with freshwater pools. Spanning over 1,500 square kilometers, the park lies within the transition zone of the Amazon and Caatinga biomes and supports rich biodiversity, including fish, amphibians and migratory birds that take refuge in its lagoons during the rainy season. Despite its arid appearance, Lençóis Maranhenses is shaped by complex hydrological and ecological processes, with its lagoons replenished by rainfall and sustained by an underlying water table. This digital representation of Lençóis Maranhenses aims to showcase the park’s stunning natural beauty while raising awareness of the ecological sensitivity of this environment. As climate change threatens rainfall patterns and unregulated tourism poses risks to the landscape, public engagement becomes essential for its conservation. This contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land, promoting the sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems and supporting local conservation efforts by promoting appreciation and responsible tourism in this rare and fragile habitat.
Home of spectacular gladiatorial battles and spectacles, this structure is a reminder of the power of imperial Rome. Despite being damaged, ransacked and looted throughout time, the Colosseum still stands as one of the 7 wonders of the world and one of the most popular tourist destinations at that.
The Royal Albert docks were an important maritime centre and strategic war hub. Opened in 1846, the Docks has become iconic for its artistic attractions, bars and culture. The docks received royal recognition in 1988 for its maritime history and world heritage status in 2004. In recent years, it has hosted music concerts in the nearby M&S arena and the Eurovision Song contest by the waterfront.
La Almoloya is a palace in southern Spain made by the Argaric society. The Argarics were a Bronze Age culture overall characterised by a complex settlement system, with urban centres and monumental structures, a division of labor, political boundaries and institutionalised violence. They are also known for women being buried with elaborate grave goods. La Almoloya itself sits atop a hill overlooking forests. All that remain are the stone indicating the foundations of the structure. This site is important to further the United Nation's sustainability goal of improving gender equality because it shows how women may have also had political and social power in a state-based hierarchical society. Therefore, this can empower women and question traditional views of gender and power.
Afghan carpet weaving has a rich history, with women being the one predominantly weaving these carpets. Their skills are known throughout the world. Afghan carpets are defined by using local, all natural materials, mostly wool, dyed bright colours with ornate and symmetric designs. Designs and symbols used to be tribe specific. Women continue to dominate this industry but face low wages, health risks, and abuses. Drawing attention to the abuses women face further the United Nation's Sustainable Development goal of encouraging gender equality. Carpet weaving is an important source of revenue for many women, and they deserve safe and healthy working conditions to earn a livable wage.
Recent archaeological analysis of Late Iron Age Durotriges graves in southern Britain indicate that women may have stayed with their kin and that husbands may have moved to live with their wives. This is also known as matrilocality, which is uncommon in modernity, where patrilocality is the most common system. Most European Neolithic, Copper, and Bronze Age sites also show evidence of patrilocality and patriliny, which is tracing lineage through men. This discovery of matrilocality combined with female skeletons being buried with a greater amount of luxury grave goods challenges notions of patriarchal power being the norm throughout history. By challenging historical and traditional notions of patriarchy, this supports the UN's sustainable goal of furthering gender equality.
An Iron Age Silver stater from DORSET Durotriges Celtic Coin
A photograph of Peranakan wedding couple from a museum in Singapore. Taken at the wedding of Chung Guat Hooi (daughter of Capitan Chung Thye Phin) and Khoo Soo Beow (son of Khoo Heng Pan) May 1941, at 29 Church Steet, Penang, built by Capitan Chung Keng Quee and now known as the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. On the right are the bride's brothers, Chung Kok Chuan and Chung Kok Tong
Photograph of two Peranakan ladies. Photo from Wereldmuseum Amsterdam
Photo of a traditional ladies' Peranakan costume. Image taken in Netherlands: Vitrine Baba Nonya
Chai Wan Cape Collinson Crematorium and Cemetery in Hong Kong
Example of Brutalist Architecture in Hong Kong: Chai Wan Cape Collinson Crematorium and Cemetery
Example of Brutalist Architecture in Hong Kong:
Example of Brutalist Architecture in Hong Kong: Capitol Centre
Brutalism is an architectural style arising in the mid 20th century in the United Kingdom, amongst the European modernist movement in the post-war reconstruction years. Originating from the French word béton brut – translated as rough concrete – it is characterized by exposed raw concrete forms and strong geometry, and prioritizes function over form. In the 1960s, its influences spread to the then-British-controlled city of Hong Kong. Hong Kong is an urban city undergoing constant and rapid remodelling. As many Brutalist buildings were built before the 1980s [15], many have fallen out of favor due to outdated design and lack of upkeep, and – like other old buildings in the city – inevitably face demolition to make space for the new. There has been a renewed interest in this style of architecture in the last decade, with the public and social media attempting to document the building that are still left standing. In a fast-changing city like Hong Kong, this becomes all the more urgent.
Ellora caves are carved out structures, extending more than 2 km, the highlight being the Kailasa temple between 7th to 10th centuries and the Buddhist halls of learning. The Ellora caves are a group of 34 caves and include construction for Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. We can find temples, Buddhist halls and dinner rooms for the Jain community at the site. The reason it is considered a cultural site is not just because of several monuments here but also the engineering and work put into their construction. The Kailasa temple which has lasted several centuries was chiseled from a mountain top to bottom, this along with the depiction of Mahabharata and Ramayana could be found on the walls, the depiction was made as stone carvings rather than words. The caves also show several stories from the mythologies of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain beliefs.
Ranthambore National Park is a part of the forts (Hill forts of Rajasthan) and comes right next to the Ranthambore fort. This forest has a variety of flora and fauna but is known for the tigers found here. Due to poaching the species had been endangered but after several reforms by the government it has been put to an end. The animals' skin was treated as a luxury item in several parts of Asia. The national park is also home to another endangered species known as the black buck (a form of deer). It is an attraction for tourists and is the prey to the tigers in the forest.
Hampi is a subset of the Vijayanagar ruins which were built approximately 700 years ago, discovered by Colin Mackenzie in the year 1800. What makes Hampi a heritage site is not just that it was built ages ago but also that firstly, it was the capital of Vijaynagar (Empire established 1336 CE and declined around 1600 CE). Hampi used to serve as the bazaar (marketplace) and also as the center for music and dance. The central stage (which has weathered down and inaccessible to the public) is to this date considered an engineering marvel as it had pillars of solid granite with minute differences in shapes and sizes which when struck with a wooden beater would sound like instruments like the Mridangam and Veena (Indian classical instruments).
Tomb of the First Emperor Qin Shi Huang Di, Xi'an, China - panoramio
An aerial photo of the Kowloon Walled City taken in 1989. The new park which was laid out at the site of the former Sai Tau Tsuen squatter settlement is visible at the south edge of the city
Immovable Culture Heritage,Intangible Heritage
Cantonese Opera was recognized in 2009 by UNESCO on the representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. As a historic art, it holds major cultural value for the Cantonese communities and regions as a performing art. Additionally, as an art, it allows for better cultural communication between China and other nations abroad, aiding in cooperation. Currently there are some ways which digital mediums are currently used to better preserve Cantonese Opera. Firstly, there is the utilization of digital libraries and databases to keep historical art records of Cantonese opera, for example the digital repository of the University of Hong Kong. Another means that digitalization has assisted in the preservation of this performing art has been via social media platforms. Social media such as YouTube or Bilibili have allowed performances to become more accessible, showing not just performances but also additional commentary or supplementary information for the art. This method aligns well with goal 8 of the UN Agenda 2030, by helping exposure for the art, allows for the industry to survive and thus incentivises a potential job which further helps to sustain the economy and living.
Mount Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is one of China’s most iconic and culturally resonant natural landmarks. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both its natural and cultural significance, Huangshan has inspired generations of poets, painters, and philosophers, and continues to hold a prominent place in Chinese cultural identity. As a mixed heritage site, it is home to 37 nationally protected higher plant species, alongside a rich diversity of flora and fauna uniquely adapted to its mountainous ecosystem. Beyond its ecological and cultural value, Mount Huangshan plays a critical role in the regional economy, drawing millions of domestic and international tourists each year. This high level of visitation supports local livelihoods but also places considerable pressure on the mountain’s fragile environment. Natural erosion, exacerbated by heavy foot traffic and extreme weather events, poses ongoing risks to biodiversity, heritage features, and visitor safety. In response to these challenges, targeted interventions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can support the long-term preservation of the site. Notably, SDG 4: Quality Education presents an opportunity to develop immersive, digital educational resources such as interactive virtual tours, augmented reality experiences, or gamified learning platforms to engage younger audiences. These tools could enhance awareness of the mountain’s historical, ecological, and cultural value while fostering environmental stewardship among future generations.
The Lake District, located in North West England, is a mountainous region renowned for its striking natural landscapes and long-standing agro-pastoral farming traditions. Designated as a national park in 1951 and later recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region is characterised by its network of sixteen major lakes, rugged fells, and historic rural settlements. In 2022 alone, the Lake District welcomed approximately 18.14 million tourist visits, underscoring its continued cultural and economic importance. Defined by its unique blend of natural beauty and human stewardship, the Lake District has been shaped over centuries by traditional hill farming practices, particularly sheep grazing, which continue to influence both the ecological and aesthetic character of the landscape. However, this living heritage faces a range of challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, shifting agricultural practices, and the pressures of mass tourism. These issues call for collaborative, forward-looking strategies to ensure the sustainable preservation of both natural and cultural assets. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Lake District offers significant potential to contribute to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By serving as a living classroom, the region can host educational programmes, community workshops, and immersive learning initiatives focused on sustainability, climate action, and cultural heritage preservation. Cross-sector partnerships involving educators, local authorities, conservation groups, and heritage organisations can further amplify the Lake District’s role as a model for sustainable landscape management and public engagement. Such initiatives would not only support the transmission of traditional knowledge but also foster a deeper understanding of the interdependencies between people, place, and the environment.
The Classical Gardens of Suzhou, located in Jiangsu Province, China, are a renowned collection of traditional Chinese gardens that exemplify the highest achievements of Chinese landscape architecture. Dating back to the 11th to 19th centuries, these gardens were built by scholars, officials, and artists as private retreats, reflecting Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist principles. They are known for their harmonious design, where architecture, water features, rocks, and vegetation are meticulously arranged to evoke natural landscapes in miniature. Nine of the finest examples including the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Master of the Nets Garden are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their cultural and aesthetic significance. Digitally representing these gardens through immersive technologies such as virtual tours or interactive 3D models can support SDG 4: Quality Education by making classical Chinese culture, philosophy, and design accessible to learners worldwide. It also aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting heritage conservation and allowing broader access without physical impact on the historic sites, helping to preserve them for future generations.
The ancient city of Pompeii, located in modern-day Italy, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. It was buried under volcanic ash during Mount Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD, preserving buildings, artifacts and human remains in exceptional detail. This unique preservation provides an invaluable glimpse into ancient Roman life. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pompeii continues to be a key resource for historians and archaeologists, offering insights into Roman architecture, urban planning and society. Pompeii has embraced digital technologies to enhance its conservation and visitor experience. 3D scanning and photogrammetry have been used to digitally map the city's ruins, allowing for precise documentation and virtual reconstructions (Monego et al., 2019). Additionally, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) allow remote visitors to experience Pompeii as it was before the eruption, reconstructing streets, villas and public spaces based on historical evidence (MagnenatThalmann et al., 2007). These digital innovations enhance both academic research and public engagement, ensuring that Pompeii’s history remains accessible to future generations.
Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is known for its remote wilderness, glacial landscapes and diverse Arctic ecosystems. The region is home to massive ice sheets, permafrost and unique wildlife, including polar bears, Arctic foxes and reindeer. Svalbard serves as a key scientific research site, providing critical data on climate change, glaciology and Arctic biodiversity. Its glaciers are among the fastest-melting in the world, making them important indicators of environmental change. Digital technologies play a vital role in monitoring, preserving and understanding the environmental shifts occurring in Svalbard. 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry have been employed to document changes in glacial formations and ice structures, improving long-term conservation planning (König et al., 2014). Acoustic monitoring systems detect and analyze glacier calving events, providing real-time insights into ice movement and structural stability (Piechowicz et al., 2017). Additionally, satellite remote sensing helps scientists understand the broader impact of global warming on polar ecosystems.
Notre-Dame de Paris is a Gothic architectural masterpiece built in the 12th and 13th centuries. It is renowned for its flying buttresses, stained-glass windows and sculptures. The 2019 fire severely damaged its roof, spire and wooden framework, prompting large-scale restoration efforts. This tragedy highlighted the importance of digital documentation in preserving heritage. After years of reconstruction, Notre-Dame is set to reopen to the public in December 2024. Notre-Dame's restoration utilizes a digital twin framework, integrating 3D modeling, reverse engineering and spatio-temporal tracking to reconstruct its architecture with precision (Gros et al., 2023). Additionally, acoustic digital twins have been developed to simulate the cathedral’s sound environment, preserving its historical acoustics and enhancing immersive experiences for the public (Katz et al., 2024). These digital tools support both conservation and educational efforts, ensuring authenticity while increasing accessibility.
Fujian Tulou, a remarkable example of rammed-earth architecture, is predominantly found in China’s Fujian province, with origins tracing back to the 10th century. Constructed on solid stone foundations, these massive, fortress-like dwellings are built from compacted raw earth, reinforced with bamboo and wood. Their ingenious design ensures durability, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer, while also offering exceptional defensive capabilities—perfectly suited for the mountainous terrain they inhabit. As a testament to traditional Chinese village culture, Tulou reflects the harmony between human settlement and nature, with its layout, site selection, and material use embodying the sustainability and ingenuity of past societies. Recognizing its cultural and historical significance, UNESCO inscribed Fujian Tulou as a World Heritage Site in 2008. To safeguard this architectural legacy and promote sustainable tourism in line with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 3D scanning and virtual tourism become invaluable tools. High-resolution 3D models enable precise documentation and aid in restoration efforts, while VR experiences allow global audiences to explore Tulou remotely, minimizing the environmental impact of mass tourism. These digital innovations not only enhance heritage conservation but also foster local engagement, ensuring the enduring legacy of Fujian Tulou for future generations.