KiteMR: An Interactive Mixed Reality System for Preserving and Experiencing Traditional Chinese Kite Craftsmanship
Shunan Zhang, Xin Xie, Desheng Lyu, Yunfeng Shu · International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction · 2025
Beijing Swallow Kites, one of China’s most iconic traditional crafts, hold a significant place within the country’s intangible cultural heritage (ICH). However, with rapid modernization and urbanization, the transmission of traditional kite-making skills faces severe challenges, leading to a gradual decline. To address this, we developed KiteMR, an interactive Mixed Reality (MR) system that digitally recreates this craft, offering users an immersive kite-making experience. KiteMR combines physical and digital elements with AI-assisted design, storytelling, and gamification to enhance user engagement, allowing for the creation of personalized kites. A comparative evaluation with video-based methods revealed that KiteMR significantly increased user interest in ICH, deepened their cultural understanding, and fostered emotional connections through immersive interaction. This system not only preserves and disseminates traditional craftsmanship in a digital format but also inspires deeper cultural reflection and identity.