Another conference, another excuse to travel across the globe to talk about language models with people who haven’t seen natural sunlight in months. EMNLP 2025 landed in Suzhou, a surprisingly charming mix of high-tech, ancient canals, and existential AI dread.
A massive bridge with the entire ceiling covered in LED panels displaying shifting animations and advertisements. Such modern. It feels like walking through Cyberpunk 77, but without bugs and meticulously cleaned.
A local religious community walks in slow circles, chanting to their gods. Watching them perform their ritual felt strangely like praying that the reviewers would show mercy on my latest submission. I should find community for that.
A traditional canal boat reimagined with bright LED strip lights and outboard motors, filled with tourists and floating through the Venice of China bathed in neon glow alongside dozens of fellow tourists.
Squeezed into an alleyway, hundreds of wooden plaques, a collection of written spells and wishes from locals and visitors praying for financial freedom, good health, and intellectual success.