Night lights illuminate the Qiantang River in Hangzhou on Sept 16, 2023. [Photo/CFP]

Hangzhou has transitioned into the post-Asian Games era, prompting discussions on how to leverage the experience and resources left behind by the event among deputies to the Hangzhou Municipal People's Congress and members of the Hangzhou Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

CPPCC member Zhao Lihang proposed that Hangzhou should further tap its regional and innovative advantages and optimize the influence of local events such as the Hangzhou Marathon and the Qiantang River Crossing. He emphasized the importance of continuously creating sporting events with local characteristics while building a higher-level public service system for citywide fitness.

In his view, the widely recognized Village Super League, which originated from grassroots sports, has evolved into an event of significant interest. He said that Hangzhou could develop a long-term and comprehensive strategy for the development of recreational sports and encourag participation and collaboration from various sectors of society.

Mascots of the Hangzhou Asian Games are seen at a local sports park. [Photo/CFP]

NPC deputy Zheng Rongxin suggested introducing policies to attract international sports events, exhibitions, concerts, esports events, and other significant competitions. The initiative aims to enhance the international influence of events like the China International Tea Expo, International Animation Festival, and Cultural and Creative Industry Expo, thereby creating a tourism boom.

Zhou Liyun, CPPCC member and coach at the Hangzhou Chen Jinglun Sports School, emphasized the need for talent cultivation, environmental protection, and green development. He suggested collaboration with city neighbors to share resources and complement each other's strengths to achieve mutual growth.