On the evening of 20 October, the closing ceremony of the 2nd Traditional Sports International Festival was held at Yunnan Ethnic Village, marking the successful conclusion of this international sports event.

“Kunming characteristics” has become an important feature of the venue of the event. The competition venues included Haigeng Training Base, Guandu Ancient Town, and Yunzi Chess Academy, hosting events in martial arts, fitness Qigong, Go, and dragon and lion dances. Haigeng Dam, a popular spot for “seagull watching,” and Yunnan Ethnic Village, with its rich ethnic flair, served as the locations for the opening and closing ceremonies. The 723 participants from 27 countries and regions showcased the unique charm of traditional sports to the public in the vibrant city of Kunming while also experiencing the city's distinctive appeal.

City’s unique features highlight the essence and value of traditional sports

The opening ceremony of the 2nd Traditional Sports International Festival. Photo provided by the organiser

"The venue for this event was chosen within scenic areas to allow both domestic and international athletes, as well as the public, to experience the charm of traditional sports up close," said Zhang Xiaojing, Deputy Director and Party Group Member of the Yunnan Provincial Sports Bureau. Zhang added that bringing sports into communities, business districts, and scenic areas helps sports become more accessible to the public, allowing more people to experience the sense of participation, satisfaction, and happiness that sports bring.

Martial arts performance during the opening ceremony. Photo provided by the organiser

Haigeng Dam, a top spot for enjoying the scenery and watching seagulls, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The opening ceremony of this event took place on the waterfront platform at Haigeng Dam, where 723 participants and onlookers gathered to witness the start of the competition. The stunning combination of Western Mountains and Dianchi Lake provided a picturesque backdrop, adding to the grandeur of the event. Grandpa Luo, who regularly enjoys walking, stopped by when he noticed the words “Traditional Sports” and watched the martial arts performance with great interest. “I practiced martial arts for a while in my youth, and it brings me joy to see young people still engaged in the sport,” he said.

The scene of the dragon and lion dance contest. Photo by Lian Yihan

Dragon and lion teams perform a swift display. From WeChat Channel “Yunyumengzhijian”

Dragon and lion dances, the sounds of drums and gongs, and a variety of styles... In the historically rich Guandu Ancient Town, the dragon and lion dance performances are in full swing. Participants dressed in vibrant costumes, wielding dragon poles and lion tails, showcase their exceptional skills and teamwork to the thrilling beat of the drums, delivering a series of stunning performances for the audience. On the sidelines, Mr. Qian, a local resident, captures the action on his phone. He expressed his delight at being able to witness dragon and lion dances in such an ancient and charming town. Participants Long Xiaoqing and Yang Xiaorui from Guangzhou Sport University commented on the unique experience of holding the competition in a popular tourist area. They noted that placing the stage close to the public allows competitors to immerse themselves fully in the event while also enabling the audience to truly appreciate the allure of this traditional sport.

Outside the stadium, athletes from other provinces praised the charm of Kunming

Kunming, with its spring-like climate year-round, vibrant natural landscapes, rich historical and cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, provides athletes with an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the scenery, earning widespread love and praise from athletes.

Scenery of Dianchi Lake. Photo provided by the organiser

Reflecting on his experience in Kunming, Wu Xianzhe, who has just come from the Go tournament, casually remarked that the city gives him the impression of a spring-like climate, comfort, and tranquility. Each visit allows him to relax his body and mind, and he has noticed the evident development of Kunming in recent years, characterized by its beautiful scenery and bustling streets. Zhang Zhongyi from the Guizhou Wushu Association team visits Kunming every year and is deeply impressed by the clean streets, vibrant cityscape, and warm hospitality of the local people.

National and international participants show their great spirit. Photo provided by the organiser

Kunming's urban charm stems not only from its scenic spots but also from the fresh outlook brought by cultural integration, openness, and inclusiveness. Li Jun, chairman of the Bengbu Fitness Qigong Association from Anhui Province, expressed that Kunming has always been a place he wanted to visit, as its development aligns fully with international standards, blending natural scenery, cultural history, and living environment seamlessly. Having participated in international competitions before, he noted that the impression left this time was the best. “I enjoyed sharing the traditional sports festival with friends from around the world in Kunming, an open and inclusive city,” he said. Yu Hao from the Fitness Qigong Team of Beijing's Fangshan District shared that during this visit, they could deeply feel the atmosphere of different ethnic groups mingling, and this harmonious interaction is a unique charm.

Holding the 2nd Traditional Sports International Festival serves as a powerful initiative for cultural heritage and promotion. It strengthens international cultural exchange and integration, significantly enhancing the national image and international influence. Through sports, Chinese culture is showcasing a new era to the world. Additionally, it will promote Kunming's development as a central city, an education hub, a sports city, and a model for national unity and progress, while opening new avenues for external engagement and effectively demonstrating Kunming's achievements in political, economic, and social advancement.

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(Editors: Reena, Amy)