The 12th West Lake International Expo opened in Hangzhou on Oct 16 on the bank of the Qiantang River, Xinhua News Service reported.

The 2010 Hangzhou International Fireworks Show also occurred on Oct 16.

The opening ceremony of the West Lake Expo, themed “Creative West Lake Expo: Harmonious City, Quality Life”, together with the fireworks show, attracted many citizens and tourists.

About 350,000 fireworks were set off at the show following the opening ceremony. More than 70,000 free tickets for the fireworks show were provided by Hangzhou’s municipal government to special groups and to individuals who contribute to the development of Hangzhou.

By Xie Fang and Wang Gongyuan