The second Asian Esports Week (Shangcheng Esports Day), aka. the second Asian Esports Series Shangcheng Qualifier, kicked off at the Deshou Palace Museum on Oct 7. The event delivered a “where Song-style meets esports” experience that transported people between ancient and modern times, capping off the National Day with vibrant energy.

At the palace square, visitors stepped into a cultural journey of the Song era. In the tea ceremony workshop, masters demonstrated the art of whisking tea, where participants created their own “Song-style latte” – blending football, anime characters, and gaming motifs into the foam designs. “It's both educational and incredibly fun,” as remarked by the travelers. Nearby, the pop-art graffiti wall featuring characters from Wei Yifan’s comic “Palm of the Immortal Dragon” became a collaborative canvas for families and young visitors, splashing vibrant colors across the historic palace grounds. Meanwhile, the retro-style gaming consoles evoked nostalgia while pinball machines adorned with traditional eaves and dougong brackets bridged classical and contemporary plays.

Inside the Cyber Esports Arena, the FIFA game kicked off with dozens of national competitors. Crowds were captivated to cheer them on. Traditional game booths like arrow tossing, ancient football (cuju), and archery drew constant queues – participants collecting stamps on cards to redeem souvenirs while experiencing Song-era pastimes. The festivities continued on October 8 with “League of Legends” competitions alongside more cultural interactions.

An official from the city’s Mind Sports Management Center noted: “Esports and tourism work well to inspire our mind sports and offer people a sort of fresh entertainment rooted in folk traditions.”