Flame lit for Harbin Asian Winter Games 2025 as organisers launch online torch relay
The lighting ceremony for the 9th Asian Winter Games took place in Harbin, China on 20 January – 18 days before the opening ceremony on 7 February.
As well as the physical torch relay, the online torch relay also kicked off in a bid to involve the international community ahead of the February 7-14 ice and snow sports showpiece.
The organising committee HAWGOC said: “On 20 January 2025, Harbin held the Torch Lighting Ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025; simultaneously, the Online Torch Relay was launched, inviting Internet users around the world to join as Digital Torchbearers for the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025.
“Through social media platforms, users are able to take part in the Online Torch Relay without limitations of time and space and enjoy this grand sports and cultural gala.”
Under the theme “Cold Weather and Warm Hearts – Create Lifelong Memories”, the Online Torch Relay’s webpage features an ice-crystal blue colour scheme, complemented by lilac and fireworks elements to create a festive ambiance.
The official mascots “Binbin” and “Nini” are featured in the webpage with lively animations that add to the fun.
The design of the Digital Torchbearer Certificate is inspired by the crystal-clear ice blocks of the Songhua River, showcasing the charm of ice and snow culture and sports.
To participate in the event, Internet users worldwide can visit the official account of the 9th Asian Winter Games Harbin 2025 on WeChat, click the “Digital Torch” button on the homepage or type the keyword “Online Torch Relay” to access the link and become a Digital Torchbearer.
Each digital torchbearer will receive a unique certificate and have a chance to win limited-edition merchandise based on a randomly-assigned certificate number.
HAWGOC added: “The Asian Winter Games is the perfect occasion for people to revel in a snow and ice feast.
“Harbin 2025 marks another landmark international winter sports event for China, following the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. It also marks the return of the Asian Winter Games to Harbin since the city hosted the event 29 years ago.
“Guided by the principles of ‘Green, Inclusive, Open and Clean’, Harbin warmly invites friends from around the world and Asian athletes to gather in the ‘Ice City’ for this spectacular sports event of Chinese Character and Asian Glamour.”
Adding to the excitement, the event will introduce the first-ever Ice and Snow Travel Themed Train, connecting “Magical Stations” and “Castle Stops”, alongside 10 “Travel with the Games” theme routes. These routes will highlight the breathtaking beauty of ice lanterns and ice and snow sculptures, setting new artistic standards for such creations.
HAWGOC concluded: “By successfully leveraging its ice and snow resources, Harbin has become a popular tourism and sports destination in China. As the 9th Asian Winter Games draws near, Harbin invites friends both at home and abroad to experience its vibrant winter charm in this most enchanting snowy season.”
