Two 4.5-meter tall inflatable mascots of Gaspard and Lisa are a highlight at the expo. [Photo provided to ehangzhou.gov.cn]

The 18th Hangzhou Cultural and Creative Industry Expo began Oct 17 with global participants bringing out their unique creations, creativity, rare artifacts, and innovative designs.

This year, more than 70 percent of international brands made their debut, including highlights like the Paris, Paris! exhibition, Egyptian papyrus paintings, and Indian miniature paintings, which were all a hit.

Paris brought a global favorite to the expo: an immersive exhibition on The Adventures of Gaspard and Lisa in Paris. Two 4.5-meter tall inflatables of this pair quickly became one of the top photo spots at the event.

The expo also offers a global mix of culture and innovation with themed sections on Florence and Britain. In the Elegant Britain section, visitors can explore unique glassworks, ceramics, and jewelry designed by alumni from prestigious British art schools such as Central Saint Martins and the Glasgow School of Art. Meanwhile, in the Artistic Florence section, an AR experience takes visitors back 2,000 years to the ancient city of Pompeii.

Visitors talk with an international artist at the expo. [Photo provided to ehangzhou.gov.cn]