Technology · Beijing
Beijing Robot Mall: Is It Worth Visiting and How to Go
Find out if the Beijing Robot Mall is worth visiting, how to get there, and what to expect. Book your visit and explore futuristic technology.
· 5 min read
Is the Beijing Robot Mall Worth Visiting?
The Beijing Robot Mall, also known as the Baidu AI Park, is a unique attraction that showcases cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence. If you are interested in technology and want to see the latest in robotic innovation, it is definitely worth a visit. However, if you are looking for a more commercial experience, such as purchasing specific humanoid robots, you might find specialized shops like Unitree more suitable.
The mall includes interactive exhibits, robot demonstrations, and even a robot restaurant. It's a great place to get a glimpse of the future and understand the advancements in Chinese technology.
How to Get to the Beijing Robot Mall
To get to the Beijing Robot Mall, follow these steps:
- Download AMap Global from the official Apple App Store — it has an English interface and does not require a Chinese phone number.
- Open AMap and search for 百度AI公园 (Baidu AI Park). The exact location is at 亦庄经济技术开发区 (Yizhuang Economic and Technological Development Area).
- Plan your route using the app. You can take the subway to Rongchang East Station (荣昌东街站) on Line 亦庄线 (Yizhuang Line), and then take a taxi or a ride-hailing service to the park, which is about 3 km away.
If you prefer to use a ride-hailing service, you can use Didi, which is available in English. Download Didi from the App Store and set up your account with a foreign credit card and passport verification.
Do You Need a Reservation?
It is highly recommended to make a reservation before visiting the Beijing Robot Mall, especially during weekends and holidays. Follow these steps to book your visit:
- Go to the official booking website for the Baidu AI Park. You can find the link on their official WeChat account or by searching for 百度AI公园预约 (Baidu AI Park Reservation) in a search engine.
- Enter your passport information and select the date and time of your visit. Make sure to enter your passport details accurately to avoid any issues.
- Complete the payment process. You can use Alipay or WeChat Pay. To set up Alipay, download it from the official Alipay website, tap Me > Bank Cards, add a Visa or Mastercard, and upload your passport for verification. Verification usually clears in minutes but can take up to 72 hours.
- Receive the confirmation and keep it handy. You will need to show this confirmation at the entrance.
Reservations are generally open 1-7 days in advance. Weekdays are less crowded, so you may have a better experience if you can plan your visit for a weekday.
Visiting the Robot Restaurant
The robot restaurant is one of the highlights of the Beijing Robot Mall. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
- Make a reservation for the robot restaurant when you book your visit to the Baidu AI Park. This ensures you have a table reserved and can enjoy the full experience.
- Arrive at the restaurant at the scheduled time. The staff will guide you to your table, and you can watch the robots prepare and serve your food.
- Payment can be made using Alipay or WeChat Pay. If you haven’t set up WeChat Pay, you can follow the WeChat registration and setup guide for foreigners. WeChat Pay can be linked to a foreign credit card, and the process is detailed in this step-by-step tutorial.
The robot restaurant offers a unique dining experience, and it is a must-try if you are interested in seeing how robots interact in a real-world setting.
Additional Tips for Your Visit
Here are some additional tips to make your visit to the Beijing Robot Mall smoother:
- Bring your passport and a copy of your reservation confirmation. You will need to show these at the entrance.
- Ensure your mobile phone is charged and connected to the internet. You may need to show your digital ticket or reservation.
- Consider getting a local SIM card or eSIM for easier navigation and communication. Follow this guide to getting a SIM card in China. A 30-day data package typically costs around ¥50-150.
- Be aware that Google Translate no longer works in China. Use alternative translation apps like Apple Translate, Baidu Translate, or WeChat's built-in translation feature. For more information, see CNBC's report on the shutdown.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Beijing Robot Mall.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
Can I visit the Beijing Robot Mall without a reservation?
It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends and holidays. Walk-ins may not be accommodated due to limited capacity.
Is the robot restaurant included in the admission fee?
No, the robot restaurant requires a separate reservation and payment. Make sure to book a table in advance.
Can I use my foreign credit card for payments at the Beijing Robot Mall?
Yes, you can use foreign credit cards with Alipay and WeChat Pay. Set up these apps before your trip to ensure a smooth payment process.
Are there other similar attractions in Beijing?
Yes, you can visit specialized shops like Unitree for specific humanoid robots, or check out other tech parks and museums in Beijing for more technology experiences.
What should I do if I have trouble with my reservation?
Contact the Baidu AI Park's customer support through their official WeChat account or the booking website. They can help resolve any issues with your reservation.
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About this guide
Written and maintained by the China Unboxed team from Shenzhen. We keep guides current and general on purpose — always verify prices and policies against official sources before booking.
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