Fireworks explode over the venue of the opening ceremony of the 11th Chinese National Games in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, Oct. 16, 2009

The flame, which lit the cauldron, arrived in Jinan after a two-month nation-wide relay. The flame was ignited in a traditional sun-ray ceremony on Aug. 1 at the top of Mount Taishan, one of the world cultural and natural heritage sites in China.

The mountain lies some 40km south of the host city Jinan and has been considered the holy mountain because it is to the east, the direction from which the sun rises.

Photo taken on Oct. 16, 2009 shows the art performance at the opening ceremony of the 11th Chinese National Games in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province

It is a continuation of a pilgrimage to Mount Taishan since ancient times, when emperors used to ascend the mountain to pray and say thanks to heaven and earth for peace and prosperity. High officials, noted scholars and commoners have followed suit. The Games, with the theme of "Harmonious China and People's Games", features 33 sports consisting of all 28 sports in summer Olympics, four winter sports and wushu as well.

Before its official kick-off, finals of 104 events from winter sports and summer sports such as table tennis, gymnastics and diving have concluded.

The National Games, which was inaugurated 50 years ago, has long been a fierce battlefield for those participants who will spare no efforts to take home both honor and pride. Usually held every four years, it is the country's top national-level sports event.

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