Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Fourteen years after the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing, as the only city that hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics, has once again delivered a spectacular and breathtaking opening ceremony on Friday night for the world.

After a countdown with fireworks, the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games kicked off at the National Stadium with splendid visuals. The night sky was lit again by fireworks, which formed the Chinese characteristics of "lichun" and the English word "spring."

Friday also marks "lichun," or the beginning of spring, which carries an inspiring message to the world under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic and calls on the world to come together for a shared future.  In Chinese traditional culture, "lichun" symbolizes hope and vitality.

From the display of rising Olympic rings and a colossal ice cube, to the unique ignition of a "snowflake" Olympic flame, Beijing is innovating green and high-tech standards for the Winter Games. 

Numerous innovations and technologies, including 5G to AI to space technologies, also came together in perfect fashion to ensure that China delivered what it promised: a simple, safe and splendid event for all.

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua

Photos: Li Hao/GT, Xinhua