“It's unique and fascinating,” shared Tien Dung, a tourist from Binh Duong, after finishing checking in at all nine designated spots at Hai Van Frontier Post and receiving a “digital badge”.

“I was able to explore historical and cultural stories brought vividly to life at the Hai Van Frontier Post national relic site,” Dung said, proudly displaying his badge as a memorable token of his journey conquering the “Thien ha de nhat hung quan” (“The world’s most majestic Frontier Post”).

After more than two years of rehabilitation, on August 1st, 2024, Hai Van Frontier Post was once again open to the public. It is now not just a familiar destination, but it also offers a “first-ever” travel experience. Visitors may simply activate NFC on their smartphones and position them near NFC chip locations to check in and gain quick access to information about each area, historical events, and the cultural significance of each heritage site.

The multi-interactive tourism solution, piloted at Hai Van Frontier Post, was developed through collaboration between Hue Monuments Conservation Center (HMCC), Phygital Labs, and the provincial IT Center – HueCIT.

Tourists simply need to tap NFC chips to explore check-in points

Accordingly, Hai Van Frontier Post now features a digital 3D tourism map that creates a journey of cultural discovery through stories. “This new technology solution aims to offer tourists not only information but also a way to immerse themselves in the flow of history, to vividly feel each moment the site has experienced and left its mark,” said Vo Quang Huy, Deputy Head of Hue Monuments Conservation Center.

The 3D digital map recreates the magnificent natural scenery surrounding Hai Van Frontier Post’s peak, allowing visitors to contemplate and explore the site’s rich history from its formation through pivotal historical events. The highlight is the integration of reality and technology, enhancing interactive experiences. Additionally, it opens up remote exploration opportunities, letting people appreciate the heritage authentically, regardless of where they are in the world.

Phygital Labs' multi-interactive tourism solution combines digital technology with cultural heritage, offering a new way to explore and supporting local tourism. Statistics from Hue Monuments Conservation Center show that, in just 20 days since the project launch, Hai Van Frontier Post has attracted over 2,000 check-ins and created 200 memorable moments. This initiative appeals to both domestic and international tourists and enables users to save and share their experiences on personal pages and websites, encouraging visitors to complete all nine check-in points while spreading stories and positive inspiration about Vietnam's heritage to the community.

According to Mr. Huy Nguyen - CEO of Phygital Labs, the technology Phygital Labs brings to Hue heritage addresses three core issues. Firstly, the check-in system provides tourists with a sense of achievement by granting badges and rankings, encouraging them to share their accomplishments. Secondly, each of their shares becomes media content, attracting young people to explore heritage and spreading positive values. Finally, it expands the tourism ecosystem by allowing badges to be exchanged for rewards from partners, enhancing user experience and boosting local business engagement.

Not only promotes heritage, the pilot project for the check-in platform and visitor recognition at Hai Van Frontier Post relic, implemented by Hue Monuments Conservation Center, also broadens the potential for digital economic development and cultural industry growth by applying digital technology in tourism.

Hue Monuments Conservation Center Director Hoang Viet Trung notes that the Center's collaboration with Phygital Labs aims to use technology to enhance interactivity for visitors to the Complex of Hue Monuments. This global reach shares Vietnam's cultural history, supports heritage preservation, and stimulates cultural industry and creates a digital economic model.

Located at 500 meters above sea level on the majestic Hai Van Pass, Hai Van Frontier Post is classified as the only national historical monument jointly managed by the two localities: Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang. Built in 1826 under the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, it has become a major tourist attraction since restoration.