The torch relay for the 9th Asian Winter Games officially commenced on Monday morning in Harbin City, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province with less than a week out from the Games' opening.
Themed with "Dream of Winter, Love among Asians", the torch relay is set to run for one day, featuring launch and closing ceremonies, and public performances along the 11-kilometer-long route through Harbin.
The launch ceremony took place at a baroque-style historical and cultural district, an area known for marking the city's early development. At the ceremony, the Chinese national anthem and the anthem of the Olympic Council of Asia were played and attendees witnessed the lighting and handover of the first torch.
A total of 120 torchbearers are participating in the relay, ranging in age from 16 to 83. The first torchbearer is Olympic champion and pair skater Shen Xue.
The torchbearers come from diverse backgrounds, representing various trades and professions, and many have made significant contributions to the Asian Winter Games.
The torch relay route, which passes through multiple landmarks in Harbin, has been designed to meet the requirements of being simple, safe, and spectacular while also showcasing the natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and urban charm of the host city.
The Olympic flame will be lit at the main torch tower during the opening ceremony of the Asian Winter Games on Friday evening, and will continue to burn until the closing of the Games on Feb 14.
The 9th Asian Winter Games will take place in Harbin from Feb 7 to 14. Over 1,270 athletes from 34 countries and regions across Asia will participate, making this edition the largest in terms of participating delegations and athletes.
Torch relay for 9th Asian Winter Games kicks off
Torch relay for 9th Asian Winter Games kicks off
Torch relay for 9th Asian Winter Games kicks off
