China's Lvxing Base attracts thrill-seekers with disaster simulations

China's Dark Tourism Boom: Simulated Disasters Draw Thrill-Seekers and Survival Enthusiasts

A growing number of young Chinese are embracing "dark tourism" by participating in disaster simulation experiences, with the Lvxing Base in Hangzhou emerging as a popular destination since its opening in September 2024. The centre offers immersive scenarios, including typhoons, flash floods, and urban flooding, where participants can confront life-threatening situations in a controlled environment while learning survival skills.

A Thrill-Seeking Trend with a Purpose

Dark tourism, also known as grief tourism, traditionally involves visiting sites tied to death and tragedy, a practice that dates back centuries, such as public executions in 17th-century Britain. However, the phenomenon has evolved, with modern iterations like China's disaster simulation centres offering a blend of thrill and education.

At Lvxing Base, visitors pay 899 yuan (US$135) for individual experiences, while family packages, which include wilderness survival and water rescue training, cost nearly 5,000 yuan. Children aged six to 14 can also participate in select activities. The centre's simulations are designed to be realistic, with winds reaching up to 165 km/h and scenarios like water surging into an underground car park during an urban flooding exercise.

Safety Meets Adrenaline

Participants are equipped with thermal suits and helmets, and trained instructors provide guidance on rescue and disaster response techniques. Safety staff are on hand to assist anyone overwhelmed by the experience. For many, the appeal lies in confronting fears in a secure setting. Xiaofei, a participant who grew up in a coastal city, said the urban flooding simulation gave her a visceral understanding of such disasters, as water rose to her neck in a staged underground car park.

Ethical Questions Surrounding Dark Tourism

While dark tourism has gained momentum across Asia, its rise has sparked debates about its ethical implications. Critics question whether such experiences promote meaningful reflection on human suffering or reduce tragedy to a form of entertainment. Proponents argue that these simulations can raise awareness and impart practical survival skills, especially in disaster-prone regions like China.

As the trend grows, centres like Lvxing Base highlight the intersection of education, thrill-seeking, and ethical considerations, offering participants a unique way to engage with the realities of natural disasters.

Source: South China Morning Post