Driverless ice cream trucks, 3D avatar booths: Hangzhou shows off tech innovations at Asian Games

However, the country is still reeling from a weakened economy, and record high youth unemployment.

Questions have arisen over the billions poured in to host the mega-event, with some businesses saying they are not yet seeing the benefits.

“(The Games have had) no impact on us at the moment. Everything is the same as usual. This is not the main competition venue, so the flow of people is not so much,” said Mr Han Yi, a shop assistant at a store located in the city centre, about 12km away from the Games venue.

GAMES BRING CHANGES TO THE CITY

Others, however, said the Games have brought significant changes to the city.

“It feels like the city now has a very new look. A lot has changed. For example, in terms of the subway transport system, and the way people have become more caring,” one Hangzhou resident told CNA. 

“The world has given us the opportunity to host the Asian Games, we must cherish it and be responsible Hangzhou residents. We should be civilised and polite, be friendly and help others,” said a fellow local.

The Games are estimated to draw more than 20,000 visitors to Hangzhou, sparking hopes that they will inject a much-needed boost to the Chinese economy.

“For Hangzhou to host the Asian Games, it proves that our country’s comprehensive national strength is far more than that of many countries, and it is still gradually developing. So in this case, we spend the money to hold the competition, and it is an honour for us to do so,” another resident said.

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