"迎" is picked as the Chinese character of the year 2022 for Hangzhou Asian Games. [Photo/hangzhou2022.cn]

The Chinese character "迎", which means welcome, was picked by netizens and experts as the Chinese character of the year 2022 for the Hangzhou Asian Games, local media outlets reported.

The character reflects the fact that Hangzhou residents welcome the international sporting event, athletes and spectators with open arms. It is also pronounced the same as "贏", which means win in Chinese, an expression of the hope that the Games will be a win-win for all parties.

The 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 was postponed and rescheduled to be held from Sept 23 to Oct 8. The city has been diligently preparing for the event by hosting rehearsal competitions and opening sporting venues to the public.

Chinese characters "智" and "盼" were also popular choices, with the former reflecting the efforts made to create a smart Games and the latter expressing people's anticipation for the event.

Mascots of the Hangzhou Asian Games. [Photo/hangzhou2022.cn]