The USA Pavilion at Expo 2010 Shanghai today launched a virtual tour at http://pavilion.expo.cn/c5001/ssize/en/index.html, which gives a global audience a glimpse of the Pavilion and the exhibits that have already delighted more than a million guests.

"World's Fairs are about creating enduring ties, and Expo 2010 is building a stronger relationship between the United States and China. This virtual tour will enable us to share those positive energies with those who are unable to visit the Pavilion in person," said U.S. Commissioner General Jose H. Villarreal.

Expo 2010 Shanghai is the first World's Fair to host an online platform that allows viewers to take a glimpse of all of the pavilions. While not meant to be a substitute for the real experience, the U.S. virtual tour doubles as a preview of what is to come for those traveling to China and a recap of the USA presence for visitors half a world away. Moreover, from the U.S. site, visitors have the opportunity to virtually tour any of the other country pavilions that are available.  

The virtual tour, a joint project from the USA Pavilion and the U.S. Department of State, closely resembles the actual USA Pavilion. Upon entering the site, visitors are"greeted" by a virtual Student Ambassador, representing the 168 Student Ambassadors who have become a favorite of guests visiting the actual Pavilion. From that point, visitors are free to examine the sights and sounds of the Pavilion on their own.

Highlights of the virtual tour:

• Act I features an abbreviated greeting from U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.S. President Barack Obama.
• In Act II, visitors can test their knowledge of American culture, history and entertainment through a quiz, which may even challenge a few Americans. In addition, Act II features a preview of"The Garden," the inspirational story shown in the main theater of the Pavilion of an American girl who dreams of turning a vacant city lot into a garden with the help of neighbors.
• Act III showcases the many U.S. companies which have sponsored the Pavilion. Through short films, photos and displays, the companies showcase efforts on sustainability, innovation and building a sense of a global community.

The site was developed by Crystal Digital Technology Co., Ltd. (Crystal CG), a sponsor of USA Pavilion, which also launched the official Expo Shanghai Online platform http://en.expo.cn/#&c=home

At over 60,000 square feet (6,000 square meters), the USA Pavilion is one of the largest national pavilions at the Expo. With the theme of"Rising to the Challenge," the United States presence will showcase American culture, values, innovation and business in one of China's most dynamic cities, while celebrating the friendship and cooperation between the United States, China and the rest of the world.