Wanna ride a bullet train? You can (virtually) in Houston this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- If you are enchanted by Asian culture, entertainment and history, a first-of-its-kind experience awaits you in the Houston Museum District.

Asia Society Texas is home to the historic "Explore Asia" exhibit, a $4.6 million attraction that immerses visitors through all the five senses.

President Bonna Kol told ABC13 it's the only interactive learning exhibit in Texas focused specifically on Asia, from its art and culture, to its connections with the Bayou City.

The exhibit will mark its first anniversary in July.

"Explore Asia has been a love child of our board," Kol said. "It's an invitation for our community, our families and for the youth to come and explore, and embark on their journey to Asia."

Through the Gateway to Asia, visitors are invited to learn more about China, India, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam with a variety of touchscreen exhibits. There's also a gorgeous neon light display, perfect for selfies with family and friends.

Then, adults and children can board a virtual bullet train for a picturesque ride across time and space.

Asia Society Texas' director of education Jennifer Kapral said students played a big role in designing the exhibit, which seeks to build bridges between Asian and American cultures.

"We feature things like, in Japan, baseball is a big highlight, right? So it's something familiar to people coming in, but it also brings in a lot of new learning," Kapral said.

Foodies can virtually explore different cuisines and menu choices across Asia, and even where to find them right here in Houston.

"The cross-cultural understanding is so important, coming and learning about all these different countries and horizons," Kapral said, "but it's also a great opportunity to celebrate Houston and our diversity, and everything we love about the city."

For details and admission, visit Asia Society Texas Center's website.

Asia Society Texas Center is at 1370 Southmore Blvd., in Houston.