Illustration: Chen Xia/GT

TheMKsport Asian Winter Games 2025 in Harbin, Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, not only showcased world-class athletic talent but also became a stage for cultural exchanges, particularly offering a glimpse into the richness of Chinese intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Inheritors at ICH events in Heilongjiang showcased their techniques to international dignitaries such as International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, thereby helping the path of Chinese ICH extend to more distant places around the world through the games.

Before the start of the welcoming banquet for international dignitaries attending the opening ceremony of the Asian Winter Games on Friday, distinguished guests from different places such as Pakistan, Thailand and Kyrgyzstan visiting the ICH exhibition area were captivated by the craftsmanship on display, with many even returning to the exhibits after the banquet to further explore the artistry, Tao Dandan, who was at the scene, told the Global Times.

"As Bach entered the hall, he first came to my birch bark making technique exhibition booth, which is a unique art form with the distinctive regional features of Northeast China. He was interested in the history and development of the ICH techniques, and asked many questions surrounding the creation and the natural texture on the works," said Tao, adding that she talked a lot with Bach and helped him complete a painting made of birch bark, which she gave Bach as a gift.

Tao, who is from the Manchu ethnic group, explained that the most important part of completing a birch bark painting is to observe the natural texture of the bark and then create a painting according to its texture.

"We had prepared dozens of souvenirs crafted with our ICH techniques; and to our surprise, they were incredibly well-received by international guests," said Tao.

Sha Yonghui, an inheritor of Heilongjiang printmaking art, was also present in the exhibition area, where she guided Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in creating a print artwork.

"The work was pretty good. It amazed all of us, and the prime minister herself was also satisfied with the work, saying that she wanted to bring it home," Sha recalled. "I suggested that she sign her name on the painting, making it more memorable."

Sha said that besides the Thai prime minister, she guided more international dignitaries to physically engage with the art form, an experience that bridged language and cultural barriers. This gave the interactions a personal touch, allowing participants to connect with Chinese culture on a deeper level.  

These interactions are emblematic of a larger phenomenon: the synergy between traditional Chinese culture and international sports events. The Asian Winter Games became more than a competition - it evolved into a platform for cultural exchanges and for showcasing the enduring charm of ICH. From the opening ceremony and even the design of the venues, China's unique cultural elements were seamlessly integrated, demonstrating how traditional culture and sports can mutually empower one another.

One of the contributions of cultural heritage to international sporting events is its ability to enhance the cultural dimension of an otherwise competitive arena. 

Sports events like the Asian Winter Games are not merely about athletic achievements, but they are global gatherings that bring together diverse cultures and traditions. Heilongjiang's printmaking art, along with birch bark craftsmanship and other traditional arts, added a layer of cultural richness to the games, transforming them into a holistic celebration of both physical and cultural excellence, Sun Jiashan, an associate researcher at the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration, told the Global Times.

Beyond the ICH exhibition at the welcoming banquet, the integration of traditional cultural elements into the opening ceremony and venue designs further enriched people's experience. The aesthetics of Heilongjiang's snow-covered landscapes and its deep connection to local culture were reflected in every detail, from decorations to performances. This fusion of sports and culture provided spectators with a more immersive and memorable experience, reminding them that international competitions are not just about medals but also about shared humanity and understanding.  

According to Sun, grand international sports events like the Asian Winter Games also offer a unique opportunity for ICH to reach a global audience.

International guests, many of whom were unfamiliar with Northeast China's regional culture, were captivated by the intricate designs and unique techniques, according to Tao and Sha. Their fascination underscores the universal appeal of traditional art - it is both regionally specific and globally resonant.  

More importantly, the games provided a platform for ICH to engage with visitors who might not have encountered it otherwise. Sports fans from around the world, drawn to Harbin for the games, were given a chance to explore Chinese cultural heritage. This exposure not only helped raise international awareness of these traditional arts but also rekindled domestic interest. 

The combination of traditional culture and international sports events also opens new avenues for ICH to innovate and adapt. Sports events, with their massive global audiences and modern infrastructure, provide an ideal environment for traditional arts to evolve and find new forms of expression.

A wider variety of diverse and innovative methods should be explored to integrate traditional culture into international sports events through mutually beneficial approaches. Inheritors of ICH have been working on the issue.