China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities entered the final phase of preparations with a flame lighting ceremony and torch relay in Sanya.

Flames from traditional regions come together in Hainan Province to symbolize unity among China's ethnic groups. The torch relay began with Xu Hongzhou, a marine research expert, lighting the first flame-holder, and passing it along amidst loud cheers from the crowd.

The Games, which are set for November 22nd to 30th in Sanya, will feature 18 competition events and 170 performance events. And with 6,960 athletes taking part, and more than 8,600 volunteers involved, preparations are now in the final phase.