The 2026 National New Year Climbing and Fitness Conference takes place on Jan 1 in Jiangshan. [Photo/Tide News]

In China, the tradition of climbing is a cherished new year ritual, symbolizing aspirations for a year filled with progress and prosperity.

The 2026 National New Year Climbing and Fitness Conference took place on Jan 1 in Jiangshan, a county-level city in Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, with over 10,000 participants joining the climb to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

The main venues included Tai'an in Shandong province, and more than 400 sub-venues across China also hosted activities, including the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall in Beijing, Hailin in Heilongjiang province, and Ma'anshan in Anhui province.

At 10 am on Jan 1, at Jianglang Mountain in Jiangshan, participants began their ascent despite a light drizzle, embracing the new year with a climb while taking in the scenic views.

Olympic champions such as Wang Shun, Zhang Yufei, Wang Manyu, Chen Yufei, and Huang Yuting sent video messages and new year's wishes, while Olympic champion gymnast Guan Chenchen, climbing world champion Wu Peng, and national climbing coach Zhong Qixin participated in the climbing event.

A concurrent sports carnival was held at the mountain's base. The event featured displays of thriving local sports industries, including sportswear and badminton manufacturing, and community sports alongside tech activities such as drone soccer and robot street dance, offering a diverse experience.

Co-hosted by the General Administration of Sport of China and China Media Group, the event has evolved since 1996 into a signature new year celebration promoting fitness nationwide.