With the relentless advance of technology, the museum sector is embracing a whole new world of opportunity and a limitless developmental space. Making museums smarter has become not just the mission but also the responsibility of any self-respecting museum professional in this new era. In order to implement a program of cultural digitization and to advance the Digital China initiative, the National Museum of China (NMC) has been moving towards the construction of a smart museum, through cutting edge information network technologies, such as big data, cloud-computing, the Internet of things, blockchain and artificial intelligence, following a route characterized by acute perception, ubiquitous interconnection, intelligent integration, autonomous learning and iterative improvement. In this way, more opportunities are provided for audiences to enjoy high-level intellectual and cultural products. Here, the smart gallery synthesizes the collection of 3D data, and makes use of data fusion, interactive exhibition technologies, and cultural heritage and environment monitoring in its display of the rhinoceros-shaped bronze zun vessel in the NMC. President Xi Jinping in a letter replying to senior experts at the NMC called for better use of cultural heritage, including making them more "alive", promoting exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, and improved preservation efforts. President Xi also highlighted the pressing need to both showcase and pass on the finest accomplishments of Chinese civilization. The smart gallery is one of the specific practices of the NMC in response to his rallying call. It also showcases the latest exploratory moves in the construction of a smart NMC.
 
An ancient ritual vessel, rhinoceros-shaped bronze zun is a highlight of the NMC collection, originally used as a liquor container thousands of years ago. It possesses a high degree of historical, cultural, aesthetic, technological, and contemporary value. On the one hand, it shows the unique aesthetic value of Chinese ancestors through realistic styling and delicate ornamentation. It also displays a masterful level of craftsmanship and encapsulates the extraordinary wisdom of ancient China with its ingenious alloying and casting technologies. In addition, the vivid realism of the object provides convincing evidence that the rhinoceros, which now can only be found in zoos, once roamed the vast land of China. Thus, it reminds us of the importance of respecting, adapting to, protecting, and promoting harmony with nature. The gallery gathers together a variety of technologies, such as 5G, high-definition 3D scanning, ultra-high definition display, artificial intelligence, infrared sensing, augmented reality, positioning and environment monitoring so that audiences can enjoy the exhibition in a more interactive and engaging way. With multiple sensory experiences on offer – viewing, listening, and touching – audiences can get a clear and vivid picture. Furthermore, they will feel the strong cultural and environmental connotations and can bask in the timeless charm of Chinese cultural heritage.
 
It is essential to advance the preservation, utilization, and inheritance of cultural heritage. The NMC has always attached great importance to research, interpretation, display, and public education regarding its collections, so that people can remember their history, trace the times past, and connect with their cultural roots. We sincerely hope audiences can bear witness and help promote the building of a smart museum, as they feel the exuberance of ancient cultural heritage and join in our efforts to promote a spirit of creative transformation in the development of the finest examples of traditional Chinese culture.