#China #Chengdu #Liu Cixin #Chengdu Sci-Fi #International Salon

Unleashing Dreams on the Wings of Sci-Fi in Chengdu

In recent years, Chengdu has emerged as an unexpected hub for science fiction literature and culture, showcasing a vibrant mingling of local and global influences. Once primarily associated with classic works from Europe and America—such as Star Wars and Journey to the Center of the Earth—sci-fi in Chengdu now enjoys a distinctive identity. This transformation can be largely attributed to Chinese author Liu Cixin, whose groundbreaking work, The Three-Body Problem, became the first of its kind to win the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Novel in 2015. This historic achievement marked a pivotal moment, positioning Chinese science fiction on the global literary map and inviting international audiences to explore new realms of creativity.

Fast forward to May 2023, when the 81st World Science Fiction Convention was held in Chengdu, marking its first occurrence in China and its second in Asia. This milestone event not only celebrated the literary contributions of global authors but also represented a significant cultural exchange platform, breathing new life into the long-dormant genre within the region. With over 30 translations available, The Three-Body Problem has captivated audiences worldwide and is even being developed into various film adaptations, solidifying Liu's legacy as a transformative figure in the genre.

The International Sci-Fi Industry Salon

On May 28, 2025, Chengdu took another step forward in the world of science fiction by hosting the International Sci-Fi Industry Salon, organized by the National Business Daily. This event brought together global leaders from the sci-fi industry, allowing renowned companies and creative minds to converge and discuss the future of the field. Among the participants were representatives from French publishing giant Hachette and the Japanese animation studio D'Art Shtajio, marking crucial moments in cross-border artistic collaboration.

The salon served as an incubator for innovative ideas, with participants exploring critical issues such as intellectual property development, copyright management, and animation production in the sci-fi sector. Notable figures like Brigitte Leblanc, editor-in-chief of Le Rayon imaginaire, and American animator Dalton Grant, who is known for his work on Cars and Shrek, shared insights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

During engaging roundtable discussions, Grant highlighted the unique role sci-fi plays in fostering unexpected creativity and breaking through perceived boundaries, while Leblanc drew attention to the global success of The Three-Body Problem as a model for international cooperation in intellectual property.

Strengthening Cultural Exchange

The organizers of the salon envisions platforms like these as gateway opportunities to further diversify, deepen, and globally integrate the sci-fi industry in Chengdu. They aim to expand the reach of Chinese sci-fi works abroad while promoting cultural exchanges that enhance understanding between China and the rest of the world. As collaborations evolve and new narratives take flight, Chengdu is set to become a central figure in the dialogue surrounding contemporary science fiction.

The aspirations encapsulated in events like the International Sci-Fi Industry Salon resonate with the dreams of many, both in China and globally. They serve as a reminder that storytelling is not limited by geography, but can transcend borders, inviting us all to dream together on the wings of imagination.

In this ever-changing narrative landscape, Chengdu stands ready to embrace its role as a leader in the burgeoning sci-fi scene, marking a historic moment for Asian literature and its future as intertwined with the world's storytelling traditions.