Domestic and foreign performers sing together during the launch ceremony of the "Blossom of Youth" Exchange Activities of World University Athletes on July 26, 2023. WEI XIAOHAO/CHINA DAILY

In anticipation of the Chengdu FISU World University Games set to commence on Friday, the launch ceremony of the "Blossom of Youth "Exchange Activities of World University Athletes took place in a new museum at Sichuan University in Chengdu, Sichuan province, on Wednesday evening.

The ceremony invited Xu Liaoyuan, designer of the "Rong Huo" torch for the games — also known as Universiade — renowned writer Alai and distinguished professor Peng Feng, head of the School of Arts at Peking University, to share their stories that beautifully intertwined the realms of sports and culture.

During the ceremony, eight key events that are being staged as part of the exchange activities were announced, including the Fresh Appeal of National Treasure Museum Cultural and Creative Exhibition, the "Thumbs Up for FISU Games" Chinese Bridge Champions Greeting FISU Games and the "Memories of FISU Games" Youth Film Project, among others.

The Fresh Appeal of National Treasure Museum Cultural and Creative Exhibition will be held in the new Sichuan University museum from July 26 to Aug 10.

According to Wu Hongliang, head of the Beijing Fine Art Academy, the event attracted participation from renowned museums in China, including the Palace Museum, the National Museum of China, the Sichuan Museum, the Jinsha Site Museum and the Sanxingdui Museum.

"This event is linking sports, culture and various elements together, undoubtedly making it very appealing to young people," Wu said.

Lyu Hongliang, head of the College of History and Culture (Tourism) at Sichuan University, introduced six city tour routes to the members of FISU delegations, athletes and media professionals in China, which are part of the Exploring Sichuan event.

"They are welcome to explore the majestic mountains and rivers of Sichuan, and to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese civilization," Lyu said.

The "Memories of FISU Games "Youth Film Project features 11 captivating short films depicting the beauty and excitement of the upcoming Universiade.

On the eve of the Chengdu games, young people from France, Italy, Kyrgyzstan and five other nations teamed up with students and teachers from universities in China, including Sichuan Normal University, to explore the city and games' venues and produce videos.

The grand "Youth in Time" 31st World University Summer Games Athletes' Gala is scheduled to take place on Saturday evening at the ASEAN Art Centre Theater, located within the Chengdu FISU Games Village. This gala will feature a captivating array of art forms, including Chinese opera, traditional Sichuan Opera, martial arts, rap, dynamic street dance, electrifying electronic music and birthday celebrations.