The countdown is on! With just a week until the opening ceremony of the 2025 Asian Winter Games, Harbin is buzzing with excitement as the Main Media Center (MMC) and Athletes’ Village officially opened their doors on Friday.
Located in the Harbin International Conference, Exhibition, and Sports Center, the MMC is set to be the hub for all things media during the Games. It comprises the Main Press Center (MPC) and the International Broadcasting Center (IBC), ready to welcome journalists and broadcasters from across Asia.
Volunteers are on hand to provide language assistance and guidance, ensuring seamless coverage of the event. Foreign currency exchange outlets are operational, catering to the needs of international visitors.
One of the highlights is the official merchandise store, where souvenirs like the adorable tiger mascots “Binbin” and “Nini” are already catching everyone’s eye. These collectibles are flying off the shelves as fans gear up to support their favorite athletes.
The MPC features press conference rooms, an online news center, and dedicated workspaces for media outlets, including Xinhua, the host news agency. Visitors can also explore exhibits showcasing torches from previous Asian Winter Games and admire calligraphy and paintings themed around Harbin 2025.
Meanwhile, the Victories Hotel, serving as the Athletes’ Village, has opened its doors to participants, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment as they prepare for the competitions ahead.
The excitement kicks off early with the first ice hockey match slated for Monday, even before the grand opening ceremony on February 7. The Games promise a week of thrilling winter sports action, concluding on February 14.
As Harbin embraces athletes, media, and fans, the city is set to deliver an unforgettable Asian Winter Games experience.
Reference(s):
Asian Winter Games: MMC, Athletes' Village in Harbin officially open
cgtn.com