A perfect performance

Through two spectacular performances, A Joyful Gathering and The Lotus and the Osmanthus in Harmony, the creation team bade a fond farewell to the guests from all corners of the world, hoping for a future reunion.

Wu Yan, the executive producer of the closing ceremony, said that the event emphasized the importance of human emotions and paid tribute to the dedication of all the athletes and volunteers, who have poured their sweat and tears into the event.

At the ceremony's conclusion, a video with the central theme of "farewell" was showcased. It focused on the guests, volunteers and people of Hangzhou expressing their reluctance to say farewell and expressing their wishes to see each other again in the future.

Wu said she hoped this moment from the closing ceremony will forever be etched in everyone's hearts as a cherished memory of the Asian Games, and of Hangzhou.

"All athletes will carry this heartfelt wish from Hangzhou with them as they return home," she said.

The ceremony concluded with the formal handing-over of the Asian Games torch and Olympic Council of Asia flag to Japan, which will host the continental sporting gala in Aichi-Nagoya in 2026.

For many of the athletes, coaches and technical staff, however, with nine sports in Hangzhou serving as qualifiers, their attention will now turn westward to Paris and next year's Olympic Games.