A New Year lantern show, which opened at Beijing's Yuanmingyuan Park on Feb 10, has attracted a large number of Chinese and foreign tourists eager to experience the festive atmosphere ahead of the Spring Festival.

The illuminated displays lighting up the historic park create rays of light shining through the centuries, carrying forward the ancient Chinese tradition of decorating homes and streets with lanterns in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year.

"We are visiting family for the new year and we heard that there was a new festival or an old lantern festival, so we decided to come check it out. It's super beautiful, so many works of art. The lanterns are so artistic and well created and it's very creative. I really, really love it," said tourists from Switzerland.

The exhibition is divided into five themed zones, linked by illuminated corridors that resemble portals to different colorful realms, featuring mythical figures from Chinese legends, symbols of the upcoming Year of the Horse, and grand palace-style installations.

"We really like the lantern shaped like a yellow palace. The craftsmanship is fine and delicate. The entire composition looks incredibly realistic, just like a real palace, and it glows so brightly. The light displays in the background are also stunning with their rich colors. They are magnificent," said visitors from east China's Jiangsu Province.

Behind the dazzling spectacle lies the craftsmanship of lantern artisans from Zigong in southwest China's Sichuan Province, widely regarded as the birthplace of Chinese lantern-making. As inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, they meticulously shaped every curve and detail of the intricate light installations.

"What delights me the most is this horse-shaped light installation. I was born in the Year of the Horse, and now it is my zodiac year, so the horse has a very special meaning for me. I wish everyone a happy New Year and all the best," said Ding Yuchen, a tourist from central China's Hubei Province.

In addition to watching the lanterns, visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of festive delicacies at the venue, adding to their holiday experience.

Like bright beacons in the night, the lanterns will continue to glow through darkness, symbolizing happiness and good fortune in the coming year. The show will run until March 3, the Lantern Festival, which marks the colorful conclusion of the Spring Festival celebrations.

The Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in China for family reunions. This year it falls on Feb 17.