To deepen mutual learning and cultural exchanges between China and Latin America, the “Mayas, Ceiba y Cosmos” was successfully held at Henan Museum from May 28 to October 15, 2025. The exhibition was jointly organized by Henan Museum, Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), and Beijing KYUN Exhibition LTD. This exhibition had spared no effort to establish an “ecological integration” model, shaped an urban cultural landmark, attracted a large number of visitors, garnered extensive media coverage, and achieved broad societal impact. From bustling crowds at its opening to vibrant discussion on social media, countless visitors connected here to touch the pulse of ancient civilization. Now, let’s look back on the unforgettable moments of this exhibition together!

Immersive Journey: Step into the Maya Rainforest at Henan Museum

Upon entering the exhibition hall, visitors are likely stepping into a realistic rainforest enclave. Through scene reconstructions and atmospheric lighting and sound, the outlines of Maya pyramids emerge in the play of light and shadow, while the sounds of tropical birds and rustling winds create an immersive soundscape, instantly bridging the gap between ancient civilization and modern observers. The innovative combination of linear guidance and radial circulation paths allows different visitors to explore the exhibition at their own pace.

The “Journey Through the Rainforest: Exploring the Maya” experience utilizes VR technology to vividly present iconic symbols of Maya civilization. This immersive digital environment enables visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Maya religious beliefs, astronomical calendar systems, and artistic achievements.

Fun for All Ages: Play, Learn, and Bring Maya Culture Home

From expert lectures to family “expedition handbooks”, and from crafting feathered serpent masks at the “ Maya Workshop” to diverse cultural creative products—we ensured visitors of all ages could find their own gateway into this ancient civilization. Maya culture no longer feels distant; it has become a tangible cultural memory that can be experienced and even taken home.

Outside the exhibition hall, the three-day Maya-themed bazaar was bustling with energy. Over twenty creative vendors offered curios, accessories, and a food experience zone, making it a hotspot for social media sharing. Whether through authentic Maya cuisine or handmade crafts, visitors gained fresh perspectives on Maya culture, transforming the exhibition visit into a vibrant and engaging journey of civilization exploration.

Social Media Buzz: Maya Craze Goes Beyond Museum Walls

The exhibition’s impact has extended far beyond the physical gallery. An integrated online-offline promotional campaign enabled nationwide audiences to “check in virtually”.

The exhibition captured significant attention from domestic and international media—exhibition footage was featured in the lead story on CCTV News, China Cultural Relics News dedicated a full-page feature to the Maya showcase, and overseas outlets provided extensive coverage.

Henan Museum utilized its WeChat Official Account, Channels, Douyin (the Chinese version of Tiktok), and Weibo to interpret Maya civilization for online audiences. Related Weibo hashtags amassed 3.39 million views, sparking vibrant discussions. Accompanying online livestreams further transcended geographical limitations, making Maya culture more accessible.

Beyond digital realm, exhibition visuals were simultaneously displayed across over 100 offline locations including subway stations, commercial areas, and transit hubs. This citywide immersion transformed the museum visit into a shared cultural celebration, firmly establishing Henan Museum as the city’s premier cultural landmark.

From immersive visits to all-ages engagement, from trending online to citywide participation. This Maya Civilization exhibition was more than just an exhibition; it represented an innovative practice in public education and cultural dissemination for modern museums. Though the exhibition has concluded, the allure of Maya civilization endures. The awe experienced in the galleries, the focus during hands-on workshops, and the enthusiasm for online interactions will remain a lasting impression, reminding us all of the joy of cultural explorations.