Winter Asiad players enjoy Chinese cultural heritage in NE China

Nearly 20 athletes, sports delegation officials and media representatives from countries 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 Vietnam gathered at the studio in the Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo Park.

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 flour dumpling with sweetened stuffing, a Lantern Festival staple.

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