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

Chengdu's Emergence as a Sci-Fi Capital

Once perceived as a genre dominated by Western classics, science fiction (sci-fi) is undergoing a remarkable transformation in Chengdu, China. This tale begins with the inception of Liu Cixin, a groundbreaking author who won the prestigious Hugo Award in 2015 for his novel The Three-Body Problem, making history as the first Asian to secure this accolade. This was a pivotal moment, signaling to the world that Chinese sci-fi was ready to take center stage.

The trilogy, which has since been translated into over 30 languages, not only captured the imaginations of readers but also paved the way for cinematic adaptations that brought its thrilling narratives to life on screen. Interestingly, few are aware that the initial serialization of the first book took place in Chengdu's own Science Fiction World magazine, infusing local pride into this global phenomenon.

In an effort to further revolutionize the sci-fi industry and bolster international connections, Chengdu hosted the Chengdu International Sci-Fi Industry Salon on May 28, 2025. Organized by the National Business Daily with support from NBD Think Tank, this event attracted leading sci-fi entities and experts from around the globe. Among attendees were representatives from France’s Hachette Publishing Group and Japan's D'Art Shtajio Animation Studio, highlighting the growing influence of Chengdu on the international sci-fi landscape.

The salon focused on discussions surrounding sci-fi intellectual property (IP) development, copyright management, and animation production, aiming to create ideal conditions for sci-fi innovation. Panels featured prominent figures like Brigitte Leblanc, an editor at Hachette Livre who manages the French edition of The Three-Body Problem's comics, and Dalton Grant, an American animation director famed for Cars and Shrek.

During the panel discussions, Grant emphasized the power of sci-fi to inspire untapped creativity and challenge boundaries. Leblanc echoed this sentiment, citing the global success of The Three-Body Problem as exemplary for prospective international collaborations in creating and promoting sci-fi works.

These platforms not only aim to enhance the diversity and depth of Chengdu's sci-fi offerings but also seek to amplify the presence of Chinese sci-fi creations on the world stage. This initiative represents a cultural shift where Chengdu strives to position itself as a critical hub for sci-fi narratives that resonate globally while fostering cultural dialogue between China and the rest of the world.

As Chengdu continues to align itself with key players in the international sci-fi community, the city showcases its commitment to nurturing a vibrant sci-fi ecosystem that stands ready to capture both local and international audiences alike. This journey initiated by Liu Cixin's groundbreaking works and celebrated through large-scale industry exchanges serves as a catalyst for future generations of sci-fi creators, further enriching the fabric of storytelling that transcends borders.

Through events like the Chengdu International Sci-Fi Industry Salon, the city is not only celebrating its heritage in science fiction but also ensuring a bright future that empowers dreams with the wings of sci-fi.