The Torch Relay for the 9th Asian Winter Games gets underway in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, February 3, 2025. /Xinhua

The Torch Relay for the 9th Asian Winter Games began on Monday in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province.

A total of 120 torchbearers, with the youngest being 16 years of age and the oldest checking in at 83, were set to carry the flame through a series of landmarks in the host city to meet the requirements of being “Streamlined, Safe and Spectacular”, while also showcasing the natural landscapes, cultural heritage and urban charm of Harbin.

Li Na, Head of the Torch Relay Command Centre's Torchbearer and Volunteer Management Team, said that the relay will last for one day, cover a total route of approximately 11 kilometres and consist of the Launch Ceremony, Flame Retrieval Ceremony, and community performances along the route.

"The selection of torchbearers was conducted with an emphasis on inclusiveness, representation and fairness, with participants from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), Chinese Olympic Committee (COC), Harbin Asian Winter Games Organising Committee (HAWGOC) and various cities across Heilongjiang Province, as well as representatives from the event's sponsors," Li said.

Meanwhile, the Asian Winter Games saw its first event, Ice Hockey, begin competition earlier in the day. Athletes from China, the host nation, are set to make their first appearance in the Mixed Doubles Curling event on Tuesday.