The 9th Asian Winter Games roared to life in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, as the main torch tower was ignited during a vibrant opening ceremony on February 7. The event – hosted in China’s “Ice City” – brought together athletes from across Asia for a spectacle blending cutting-edge technology with traditional cultural performances.
Over 1,000 athletes from 35 countries and regions will compete in 11 disciplines, including ice hockey, curling, and alpine skiing. The ceremony highlighted Harbin’s history as a winter sports hub while emphasizing sustainability themes, with energy-efficient lighting systems powering the frosty festivities.
This marks the third time the Chinese mainland has hosted the Games since 1996, offering a platform for cultural exchange ahead of major global winter sports events. Organizers noted it demonstrates Asia’s growing influence in winter athletics ahead of the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
