FUZHOU, China, Jan 22, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Dozens of giant lanterns in the shape
of mythical creatures, flowers and legendary characters light up the night
sky in southern China -- a dreamlike spectacle to mark the upcoming Lunar New
Year holidays.

As night falls in the southern Chinese city of Fuzhou, lanterns -- some of
them 10 metres high -- transform Hongguang Lake Park into a fantastical land
of orange dragons, majestic sailboats, fish with sparkling turquoise scales
and goddesses with angelic faces.

"Aren't these lanterns cool?" Lei Haoxin, a 17-year-old tourist wrapped up in
a parka due to the cool weather, said.

"Super beautiful, right? We found the place thanks to Douyin," he explained,
referring to China's version of TikTok.

"Usually, when we spot something interesting via the app, we try to go
there," he explained.

Fuzhou is the capital of Fujian province, known throughout China for keeping
many traditional New Year events alive.

Many lanterns are drawn from traditional folklore -- one features the
likeness of Mazu, a sea deity popular across southern China, Taiwan and among
the diaspora across Southeast Asia.

"This lantern is exquisitely made and looks even better than in the
pictures," tourist Luo Meiling told AFP.

Also making an appearance is the mythical Monkey King, Sun Wukong, from the
Chinese literary classic "Journey to the West".

Lanterns date back to a thousand-year-old tradition in China and are a common
sight in the country, especially around the Lunar New Year, when millions
flock to public spaces to take in their bright lights and vivid colours.

And with Chinese people around the world set to herald in the Year of the
Snake on January 29, artistic lantern displays in all shapes and sizes have
sprung up in towns and cities across the vast nation.

"We feel more of the New Year atmosphere in recent years," Qi, a 42-year-old
resident of Fuzhou, who visited the park with her young son, told AFP.

"Mentalities are changing and people are making their children do more
outdoor activities now," she explained.

"Many families come here to enjoy the fireworks and the entertainment."