The flame cauldron for the 15th National Games, designed by a team from the School of Design and Innovation at Shenzhen Technology University in Pingshan District. Photos from the games’ organizing committee

The 100-day countdown ceremony for the 15th National Games, the 12th National Paralympic Games, and the 9th National Special Olympic Games was held in Shenzhen on Aug. 2. The 15th National Games will be held from Nov. 9 to 21 across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

The highly anticipated ceremonial torch, medals, and other key elements of the events were unveiled at the ceremony. The flame cauldron was designed by a team led by Li Liquan, vice dean of the School of Design and Innovation at Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU) in Pingshan District.

Since December 2024, Li’s team has spent five months creating over 70 designs and producing 220 drafts for the torch, flame cauldron, and flame lantern.

 The flame cauldron draws inspiration from a type of bronze vessel used to hold wine or water during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.

The design concept of the flame cauldron, symbolizing “united in prosperity,” is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture. It draws inspiration from a type of bronze vessel used to hold wine or water during the Shang and Zhou dynasties. This vessel is a supreme embodiment of ancient Chinese ceremonial culture, carrying thousands of years of civilization.

The flame cauldron’s three-petal design at its base echoes the official torch of the games — named “Blossom.” The three petals represent the shared roots and prosperity of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, reflecting the close ties among the people of the three regions and their collaborative development.

The cauldron fuses the ancient ritual vessel with the spirit of modern sports events, embodying the hospitality and passion of the three regions as they co-host the games.

The flame cauldron’s three-petal design at its base echoes the official torch of the games — named “Blossom.” 

The torch designed by Li’s team also incorporates elements from the GBA, while the flame lantern was inspired by traditional lanterns of Lianping, Guangdong, and Lingnan architectural styles. Though these two designs were not ultimately selected, they exemplify the team’s dedication to this national event.

In addition to their design work, Li’s team contributed to rural revitalization efforts by promoting Lianping’s local farm produce, such as tea leaves and peach-flavored snacks. These products have been selected as licensed items for the games, and were showcased at the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair.

Tea leaves and peach-flavored snacks from Lianping, Guangdong, have been selected as licensed items for the 15th National Games.