To celebrate the 19th Asian Games, the mascots of the grand sporting event - Lianlian, Congcong, and Chenchen - have made their global debut. The three mascots will welcome everyone to join in the event with their enthusiasm and hospitality while conveying the sporting spirit of the 19th Asian Games to the world.
The three mascots of the 19th Asian Games appear in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
The three mascots of the 19th Asian Games appear in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
The three robotic figures respectively represent a different facet of Hangzhou's rich heritage. Lianlian is a reflection of the West Lake; Congcong denotes the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, while Chenchen characterizes the Beijing - Hangzhou Grand Canal.
The three mascots of the 19th Asian Games appear in a football game in Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
The three mascots of the 19th Asian Games appear in a football game in Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
The mascot Lianlian takes on the color of nature, green, as its main tone to represent the West Lake, which is a freshwater lake in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. The popular scenic spot is famous for its picturesque scenery, elaborate architecture, and eco-friendly environment. There are small islands, temples, pagodas and gardens featuring traditional Chinese architectural styles.
As a landmark of Hangzhou, the West Lake houses stunning views and historic relics that have influenced many poets and painters throughout Chinese history. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. Surrounded by luxuriant trees, various plants and flowers, the West Lake attracts a large number of visitors every year. In particular, the blooming lotus flowers of summer offer a particularly picturesque scene. The mascot Lianlian's name derives from the lush lotus leaves found there. Also, the lotus is a symbol of purity, nobleness and peace in Chinese culture.
The mascot Lianlian of the 19th Asian Games interacts with a resident in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
The mascot Lianlian of the 19th Asian Games interacts with a resident in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. /CFP
Lianlian's lotus leaf-shaped headpiece is distinctively adorned with a special scenic view of the West Lake. Its pure, lively and elegant image reflects a graceful, harmonious and open mindset - a spirit the mascot aims to convey.