Postal souvenirs leave their stamp

Many people attending the 19th Asiad are literally putting a stamp on their memories of the event, as they form long lines outside temporary post offices of the Hangzhou Games Village to buy commemorative envelopes and postage stamps.

These limited-edition items feature such Games icons as the mascots, Congcong, Chenchen and Lianlian.

The first run of stamps were released following the Games' opening, with 400 sets available at the Athletes' Village, 200 at the Technical Officials' Village and 200 sets at the Media Village, said Xie Zhengyun, a staffer at the Media Village's temporary post office.

"People started lining up around 7 am," Xie said.

"We were ready. The quantity of the commemorative envelopes for the opening ceremony was limited throughout the village, and they were very popular. Previous events had demonstrated strong demand for such commemorative postal souvenirs. Therefore, we were very proactive in preparing ... so sales have gone smoothly."

Ultraviolet-light activated anti-counterfeiting images include such distinctive Hangzhou landmarks as the three pools mirroring the moon, Leifeng Pagoda and Gongchen Bridge. Those for the envelopes issued to commemorate the opening ceremony feature depictions of the torch tower and fireworks.

The design shows how Hangzhou has integrated technology as the Games' host city, said Jin Yang, assistant manager of village transportation and logistics.

Jin's colleague, Xia Chuan, plans to mail these envelopes to his hometown, Chengdu, Sichuan province.

"I hope to send them to my family to share the beautiful moments of the Hangzhou Games so they can join in the experience," he said.