#China #Chengdu #Three-Body Problem #Liu Cixin #Chengdu Sci-Fi

Chengdu: A New Era in Sci-Fi

In recent years, the landscape of science fiction has transformed dramatically, evolving from a realm dominated by classic works from Europe and America—such as Star Wars, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and Journey to the Center of the Earth—to a much more inclusive and diverse narrative platform. Central to this evolution is the remarkable influence of Chinese science fiction, particularly exemplified through the work of Liu Cixin.

Liu's groundbreaking trilogy, The Three-Body Problem, first published in China’s Science Fiction World, has become a global phenomenon. Winning the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 2015, Liu made history as the first Asian author to receive this prestigious award, marking a pivotal moment for Asian representation in the genre. Since then, The Three-Body Problem has been translated into over 30 languages, garnering a worldwide audience captivated by its intricate descriptions of physics and philosophical explorations. Its success has catalyzed a growing interest in Chinese science fiction, showcasing the rich potential of storytelling that emerges from this emerging powerhouse.

In 2023, Chengdu had the honor of hosting the 81st World Science Fiction Convention, an event that aimed to shine a spotlight on the city's growing role in the sci-fi community. For the first time in history, the convention was held in China, a mere indication of the country’s rising profile in global science fiction.

To further bolster this cultural movement, the Chengdu International Sci-Fi Industry Salon was held on May 28, 2025. This event was organized by National Business Daily and aimed at fostering international collaboration within the sci-fi industry. Attendees included dignitaries from major publishing houses, animated studios, and influential voices in the field. Notably, representatives from the French Hachette Publishing Group—the second largest publishing group in the world—and Japan's D'Art Shtajio Animation Studio, led by African American artists, dedicated their presentations to inventive discussions about the management of intellectual properties and the cross-border production of animations.

Animation director Dalton Grant, known for his work on hits like Cars and Shrek, articulated the pivotal role sci-fi plays in sparking creativity and breaking apparent boundaries. Similarly, Brigitte Leblanc, chief editor at Le Rayon Imaginaire and representative of Hachette Livre, highlighted the triumph of The Three-Body Problem as a template for international intellectual property collaborations.

The organizers emphasized that such forums aim to enrich the sci-fi industry in Chengdu with diversity and depth while expanding the reach of Chinese narratives globally. This initiative also seeks to enhance cultural exchanges between China and the world, crafting a narrative that is both uniquely Chinese yet universally relatable.

While many are familiar with the success of Liu Cixin's works, the burgeoning sci-fi community in Chengdu remains largely unexplored by mainstream audiences. However, with events like the International Sci-Fi Industry Salon and the significant recognition of local talents, Chengdu is positioning itself as a vital hub for creativity and innovation in science fiction.

As the world watches this transformation, one thing is clear: Chengdu is taking flight on the wings of sci-fi, shaping a future where imagination knows no borders.

With this momentum, the city aspires not just to be a participant in the global sci-fi dialogue but to lead it, ensuring that the stories emerging from this region resonate across cultures and contribute to global discussions about our future.

As we continue forward, it will be exciting to see how Chengdu and other cities in China further develop their contributions to science fiction, fostering a cultural exchange that enriches both sides of the journey.