A heritage showcase

Shuang is also working on adding Olympic elements to traditional craftsmanship. For example, the rabbit god holding a ski pole. These artworks are part of some 300 intangible heritage items that will make their way to the Winter Games venues. Local authorities want athletes to feel the unique atmosphere of Spring Festival during the intense competition. At the same time, events themed on intangible cultural heritage will be staged in communities and villages across Beijing around Spring Festival.

The Dongcheng district will host live broadcasting events, where intangible cultural heritage inheritors will walk audiences through Winter Olympics-related artworks. Xicheng district will put on a temple fair online, where visitors can get an insight into the history behind certain cultural products. Haidian district will arrange intangible cultural heritage exhibitions at major stadiums. Martial arts will be performed in Changping district, while folk sports will be staged in Huairou district.

Time-honored traditional Chinese medicine and Peking roast duck brands will launch new products and promotions in the interim.

"The Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games are not only sports events, but also the exchange of cultures and civilizations," says Zhang from the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism.

The concept of openness and sharing is reflected not only in sports facility designs, but also in the works in the cultural exhibition, according to him.

"Each work is full of the creator's love and desire for communication."