Asian Winter Games players enjoy Chinese cultural heritage in NE China

International guests join local Yangge dancing troupe at a CMG studio in Harbin City, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, February 10, 2025. /CMG

Nearly 20 athletes, team officials and media representatives from countries and regions participating in the 9th Asian Winter Games took part in a cultural exchange event held at a China Media Group studio in Harbin City, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province on Monday.

The international guests from countries including Mongolia, Thailand, the Philippines and Viet Nam gathered at the studio in the Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo.

The event kicked off with a vibrant performance by a local folk Yangge dancing troupe, whose energetic moves and rhythmic drum beats quickly lifted attendee's spirits. Captivated by the lively atmosphere, many foreign guests jointed the dancers.

The event also offered a hands-on experience with various Chinese intangible cultural heritage crafts. Participants had the opportunity to learn about and create ice engravings, sugar paintings, wheat straw art, and paper cuttings.

Traditional winter delicacies like frozen pears and persimmons were available for tasting, along with the joyful experience of making Yuanxiao—glutinous rice ball with sweetened stuffing, a Lantern Festival staple.

The 9th Asian Winter Games runs from February 7 to 14.

"I am happy to see many athletes from Asia to take part in the World Cups in recent years, especially those from Japan who hold the world record in Snowboard. And Chinese athletes are working hard to move forward. And I see some very young Chinese athletes are making progress quickly. I think we are getting better and better."