Across China, vibrant Spring Festival events -- ranging from dazzling lantern displays to lively folk performances -- are bringing festive joy to tourists.
In the Nanhu Scenic Area of Tangshan, north China's Hebei Province, the Spring Festival lantern show, themed “Magical China,” has captivated visitors with its vibrant lights and intricate designs. Inspired by ancient Chinese myths and inventions, the lanterns seamlessly blend traditional culture with artistic innovation.
"It is really good. The lights are so bright, the themes are diverse, the lanterns here are crafted with great detail, and the atmosphere is amazing. The service is very good as well. The people of Tangshan are very welcoming. The lantern show is a great success," said a tourist surnamed Zhang.
A highlight of the celebration was a breathtaking drone performance, in which thousands of drones illuminated the night sky with dynamic images celebrating the Spring Festival.
Meanwhile, in Dafeng District of Yancheng City, east China's Jiangsu Province, a collaboration with lantern artisans from Zigong -- a southwestern Chinese city famous for its lantern making -- has resulted in over 30 stunning themed installations.
Among the highlights is the ten-meter-tall “Tulip Goddess” lantern, which blends with the surrounding lights to create a mesmerizing scene. Visitors also enjoyed traditional performances, such as the molten iron fireworks display and the Huohu (fire pot) show, adding to the vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Jimo Ancient Town in Qingdao City, east China's Shandong Province, transformed into a festive wonderland, drawing tourists with its lanterns and light installations, temple fairs, and folk performances.
Activities such as lion dances and the Jimo Yangko dance kept crowds entertained throughout the day, while the evening showcased a spectacular fusion of technology and tradition. Light projections, zodiac-themed lanterns, and glowing red lanterns illuminated the streets in celebration of the Spring Festival.
Across China, Spring Festival cheer brings joy to tourists with lantern shows, folk performances
China's manned deep-sea submersible Jiaolong has completed a significant upgrade and started underwater trials, according to the country's Ministry of Natural Resources.
The China-made underwater ship, named after a mythical sea dragon, is capable of diving to depths exceeding 7,000 meters. It has completed over 300 dives since its maiden mission in August 2009 and explored waters in the Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean.
This latest upgrade, which began in November last year, aims to enhance its capabilities and support more frequent deep-sea missions.
According to the National Deep Sea Base Management Center, the upgrade focuses on critical components like the propulsion system and battery packs.
The propulsion system has been adjusted structurally to increase the speed from 2.5 to over three nautical miles per hour, with the replacement of three-bladed propellers with more efficient four-bladed versions.
The zinc-silver battery pack has been replaced with high-energy-density flexible lithium battery pack, which aims to improve the power reserve and reduce diving costs.
The submersible's observation capabilities have also been enhanced. An array of cameras, including high-definition video cameras and powerful lighting systems, are equipped to facilitate underwater exploration and resource assessment.
Further upgrades include two more LED light arrays at the front and three more lights at the rear and bottom, expanding the submersible's detection range and improving its ability to locate specific targets.
"This upgrade prioritizes enhancing our operational tools. We've upgraded the electrical systems, propulsion, mechanical components, observation, and communications equipment to cater to the needs of deep-sea exploration and improve operational efficiency," said Qi Haibin, a submersible pilot.
Following the underwater trials to test its stability, Jiaolong will undergo sea trials in the South China Sea in March to validate its enhanced capabilities.
"Jiaolong will be sent to the South China Sea to conduct deep-sea equipment verification. After completing the process, there will be extensive missions ahead of us," Qi said.
The submersible is scheduled for further scientific expeditions in the Pacific and Indian Oceans later this year.
China's manned deep-sea submersible completes major upgrade, prepares for exploration
