GUANGZHOU, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's 15th National Games, hosted for the first time across Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, opened on Sunday evening with a ceremony highlighting cultural heritage and technological innovation.

Performances showcased Greater Bay Area traditions alongside newer elements, including the Yingge dance, Guangdong lion dance and Cantonese opera.

As one of China's most dynamic economic regions, the Greater Bay Area highlighted technological themes during the opening ceremony.

Using artificial intelligence, AR, VR and embodied robotics, the production team presented the concept of "bringing the sea into the venue." On the 5,000-square-meter stage, technology enabled over 3,000 performers to create the visual effect of thousands.

The theme of unity was reflected in a circular main stage surrounded by a water-stage ring.

"We used the circle as the core element, with a circular stage and patterns throughout to express the dream of coming together," said Huang Peiling, deputy director of the opening ceremonies.

"These three regions are closely connected to water - the sea and sky blend as one. From the ceremonies to the performances, we highlighted water to give the opening ceremony a lively, fluid energy," added Chen Weiya, artistic director of the opening ceremonies.

The opening ceremony underscored unity, as athletes from all three regions entered the stadium together to loud applause. Chinese national flags in the main stadium in Guangzhou, as well as in Hong Kong and Macao, were raised simultaneously, reflecting Greater Bay Area cooperation and national pride.