Hans Christian Andersen is known and loved throughout modern China. Classic fairy tales created by the late Danish author have influenced generations of Chinese readers. Now a multimedia exhibition here in Beijing brings his intriguing characters to life.

Andersen's Magic Land

Enter Andersen's Magic Land. His classic tales such as: The Tinder Box, The Emperor's New Clothes, Thumbelina, The Little Mermaid have been re-imagined here at this exhibition.

Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales are like exquisite jewels-it's hard not to look at them. The intriguing and unique characters created by the author have touched the hearts of many. This particular exhibition is like going on a 'choose your own adventure' tale and the feeling is exhilarating."

"I grew up with Andersen's fairy tales, which are so beautiful. Now I love to read them to my daughter, and she's having tons of fun here at the exhibition."

Andersen's stories have been delighting both adults and children since they were introduced to China more than a century ago. His stories are both light-hearted and whimsical but are also filled with philisophical matters, such as morality. Even today, they are as entrancing as ever -- and that's the key mesage behind the exhibition.

"The appeal of Andersen's fairy tales are universal. Each one of us at some time, has been touched by one of his classics. So through this display, we hope to immerse the visitors into the stories. Put aside your ipad, iphone, or other digital devices, so you can re-visit childhood memories and create some knew ones here with your kids," said organizer Wu Shangfei.

Chinese writer Cao Wenxuan, who just won the 2016 Hans Christian Andersen book Prize, praises the efforts of the organizers of this exhibition and has this to say:

"The exhibition presents Andersen's fairy tales in a very good way, which was impossible decades ago. Andersen's stories are timeless. They are beautiful, full of imagination and tell you what's right and what's wrong in a very subtle and sensitive way. So I highly suggest that the parents should read the stories to their kids before taking them here at the exhibition," said author Cao Wenxuan.

"Andersen's Magic Land"  exhibition is taking place in front of the China Millennium monument on the west end of the city. It will remain in Beijing until September, before going on a national tour.