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Inside One of China’s Smartest Cities: Living with Digital ID
Zhengzhou: Inside China's Smart City with Digital ID & AI
China… from facial recognition and palm pay to drone deliveries — it’s the kind of technology that still feels alien in the West.
But here in China, this isn’t the future — it’s everyday life.
So what’s it actually like living in one of China’s smart cities?
We went to Zhengzhou, China’s...
China… from facial recognition and palm pay to drone deliveries — it’s the kind of technology that still feels alien in the West.
But here in China, this isn’t the future — it’s everyday life.
So what’s it actually like living in one of China’s smart cities?
We went to Zhengzhou, China’s technological hub and one of the most important cities in the world to find out.
September 2025 | Vlog 546 | Zhengzhou, China
13/34 Province
When we finally started our adventure
Step into Zhengzhou, China's vibrant technological heart, where the future isn't just imagined, it's lived! Experience a world where facial recognition and palm pay are as common as street food, and drone deliveries zip through the skies. This isn't science fiction; it's the daily reality in one of the planet's most advanced smart cities. Join the journey into the everyday life shaped by cutting-edge AI and innovative urban living.
China… from facial recognition and palm pay to drone deliveries — it’s the kind of technology that still feels alien in the West.
But here in China, this isn’t the future — it’s everyday life.
So what’s it actually like living in one of China’s smart cities?
We went to Zhengzhou, China’s technological hub and one of the most important cities in the world to find out.
September 2025 | Vlog 546 | Zhengzhou, China
13/34 Province
When we finally started our adventure
This video takes viewers on a journey through Zhengzhou, a technologically advanced "smart city" in China, as explored by the travel duo On Tour With Dridgers.
Initially, the narrative contrasts the Western world's debate over digital IDs with China's already established reality of advanced AI-driven systems and real-time data networks designed for urban living. Zhengzhou, a city of 13 million, is highlighted as China's first and original smart city, though perhaps less known to Westerners than Beijing or Shanghai. Its significance lies in its futuristic infrastructure and its role as a hub for global companies like BYD and Apple.
The exploration begins with a rainy day, leading the duo to seek warmth in a local coffee shop and then head to an expo center. A brief, humorous moment occurs when one of the travelers attempts to identify a unique building using AI, demonstrating the integration of technology even in everyday information gathering.
The video then delves into Zhengzhou's modern public transport system. The metro is described as super modern and advanced, crucial for managing the city's large population and constant movement. The efficiency is emphasized, with QR code entry and the potential for facial recognition and palm pay for citizens. The autonomous trains and integrated app system for real-time traffic and transport monitoring showcase the city's smart infrastructure.
Beyond technology, the city's commitment to green spaces is noted, with parks serving a dual purpose of aesthetics and flood prevention, crucial for a region prone to flooding. A visit to a large mall reveals a stark contrast between luxury brands and the local working-class areas, a juxtaposition the travelers find emblematic of China.
A significant portion of the video addresses the pervasive presence of cameras and facial recognition technology. While acknowledging it might seem overwhelming, the travelers express a feeling of enhanced safety and comfort, noting they can vlog without fear of theft, unlike in other parts of the world. They debunk myths about the social credit score, emphasizing that the system is primarily about maintaining safety and order rather than being overly punitive.
Shopping experiences are detailed, from luxury brands to everyday necessities. The video also touches upon cultural observations, such as the unique cake frosting not being overly sweet, reflecting a general preference for savory over sweet tastes in Chinese cuisine. The convenience of 7-Eleven stores and the variety of food options, including unique drink dispensers and a wide selection of sandwiches, are highlighted.
Digital payment systems like Alipay and WeChat are presented as essential for navigating life in China, with the DD ride-hailing service being particularly praised for its efficiency. The ease of ordering dinner via an app while in transit further underscores the digital integration.
The journey concludes with a visit to the impressive East Jingang train station, a massive hub connecting to major cities across China. The travelers note the necessity of passports for ticket validation for tourists and the sheer scale of the station, comparing it to an airport. They reflect on their experiences, expressing a growing affection for China and its people, and hinting at future explorations in new provinces.
Step into Zhengzhou, China's pioneering "smart city," where the future of technology is already everyday life. On Tour With Dridgers explores this vibrant metropolis, showcasing its advanced AI systems, futuristic infrastructure, and efficient public transport. Witness the seamless integration of facial recognition and mobile payments, the city's commitment to green spaces for flood prevention, and the striking contrast between luxury shopping and local life. Discover a city where pervasive technology fosters a unique sense of safety and comfort, challenging Western perceptions. This vlog offers an immersive look into a technologically advanced urban landscape, highlighting its innovation and livability.
Explore Zhengzhou, China's smart city, with On Tour With Dridgers. Discover advanced tech, efficient transport, and unique urban living. Experience safety and innovation in this futuristic metropolis.
China Smart City Zhengzhou: Digital ID, AI & Futuristic Living
4:39 Utilize QR codes or facial recognition for quick entry and payments in public transport and stores, making transactions seamless.
6:22 Appreciate the green spaces in smart cities; they are not just for aesthetics but also play a crucial role in urban drainage and flood prevention.
12:08 Embrace the widespread camera surveillance in smart cities as a tool for safety and crime prevention, fostering a secure environment for residents and visitors.
13:10 Feel secure enough to vlog openly without constant worry about personal belongings, thanks to the safe environment created by smart city technology.
21:22 Explore convenience stores like 7-Eleven, which offer unique features such as self-serve liquor dispensers and seating areas.
23:14 Download essential apps like Alipay and WeChat before visiting China, as they are crucial for payments, transportation, and daily life.
29:16 Opt for a trolley suitcase for easier travel, especially when navigating large train stations and managing multiple belongings.
31:34 Experience the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the Chinese people, which enhances the overall travel experience.
4:39 Utilize QR codes or facial recognition for quick entry and payments in public transport and stores, making transactions seamless.
6:22 Appreciate the green spaces in smart cities; they are not just for aesthetics but also play a crucial role in urban drainage and flood prevention.
12:08 Embrace the widespread camera surveillance in smart cities as a tool for safety and crime prevention, fostering a secure environment for residents and visitors.
13:10 Feel secure enough to vlog openly without constant worry about personal belongings, thanks to the safe environment created by smart city technology.
21:22 Explore convenience stores like 7-Eleven, which offer unique features such as self-serve liquor dispensers and seating areas.
23:14 Download essential apps like Alipay and WeChat before visiting China, as they are crucial for payments, transportation, and daily life.
29:16 Opt for a trolley suitcase for easier travel, especially when navigating large train stations and managing multiple belongings.
31:34 Experience the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the Chinese people, which enhances the overall travel experience.
0:18 China's advanced AI systems
0:50 Introduction to Zhengzhou smart city
1:36 Global companies in Zhengzhou
3:31 Modern metro system
4:39 QR codes and facial recognition payment
6:22 Green spaces and flood prevention
8:46 Luxury vs local areas
12:08 Cameras and safety in smart cities
21:22 Unique 7-Eleven drink dispenser
23:14 Essential apps: Alipay and WeChat
25:50 Impressive train station
27:51 Massive train station scale
0:18 China's advanced AI systems
0:50 Introduction to Zhengzhou smart city
1:36 Global companies in Zhengzhou
3:31 Modern metro system
4:39 QR codes and facial recognition payment
6:22 Green spaces and flood prevention
8:46 Luxury vs local areas
12:08 Cameras and safety in smart cities
21:22 Unique 7-Eleven drink dispenser
23:14 Essential apps: Alipay and WeChat
25:50 Impressive train station
27:51 Massive train station scale
on tour with dridgers#otwd中國中國旅遊china smart citiesdigital idbiometrics chinachina newssky newsbbc newscnnfox newsaiartificial intelligencedrone deliveryrobotsself driving carfacial recognitiondonald trumpusau.k.china tariffschina tradechina vs usachina exportsWhat is Zhengzhou known for?
Zhengzhou is known as China's first smart city, famous for its technology, futuristic infrastructure, and being a hub for global companies.
How does public transport work in Zhengzhou?
The metro system is very modern and efficient, using QR codes or facial recognition for entry. The trains are autonomous and monitored in real-time.
Is it safe to walk around in Chinese smart cities?
Yes, the presence of cameras and advanced technology creates a very safe environment, allowing people to feel comfortable and secure.
What are the essential apps for traveling in China?
Alipay and WeChat are crucial for daily life, including payments and ride-hailing services like DD.
What's unique about convenience stores in China?
Some convenience stores, like 7-Eleven, offer unique features such as self-serve liquor dispensers and upstairs seating areas.
How are train stations in China?
Major train stations like East Jingang in Zhengzhou are massive, comparable to airports, and connect to cities across China.
