Geotechnical engineering (GE) is a discipline with a tight combination of theory and practice. It involves many complex stereometric aspects, such as slope engineering, underground engineering, engineering rock mass. Traditional two-dimensional teaching could not give an efficient introduction. The mentioned contents cannot be easily accepted by the students. To solve the problem, a "virtuality-reality" teaching approach and platform combining the virtual reality and 3D printing technique is proposed and practiced. It is found that the proposed teaching method could stimulate the learning interest of students. Students could learn about the complex structures about GE in an easy and safe circumstance, which solves the negative issues such as high cost, long period and potential danger. By using the 3D printing technique, the teaching quality of GE is effectively improved and the practical ability and innovative thinking of students are also cultivated. The proposed teaching approach can also provide a platform for extra-curricular innovative activities with the requirement of new engineering construction, which makes a better collaboration of teaching and scientific research.