"We've done over 40 revised versions of the programming, and have done all we can to perfect each and every detail," said Wu, who was on Sha's team for the Hangzhou Games in 2023.

To highlight the thrilling winter attraction of Harbin, the opening ceremony — with the majority of its program staged at the indoor exhibition center — will also feature outdoor performances at the Harbin Ice and Snow World, a must-visit tourism destination featuring astonishing ice sculptures, where rehearsals have been carried out since November.

The stage effects at the exhibition center will be significantly enhanced by digital technologies, such as augmented reality, glasses-free 3D animations and ultra HD background screens, to guarantee an immersive experience for both live spectators and television viewers, said Wu.

Use of such high-tech techniques will help the creative team put Harbin's "coldest and prettiest" beauty of ice and snow on display, together with the "hottest and warmest "emotions of the host, as it calls for solidarity throughout Asia, according to Leng Song, chief writer for the ceremonies.