Changchun 2027 Winter Universiade Heads of Delegation Meeting. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

The Winter Universiade flame story began in 1959, when the first FISU World University Games opened in Turin, Italy. With 1,407 athletes from 43 countries competing, the event established the name "Universiade" and the iconic flag bearing the letter "U", marking the beginning of a global tradition of university sport.

Since 2018, Turin has been the permanent home of FISU's "flame of knowledge". Before each Universiade, the flame is lit and carried to the host city.

Turin is the permanent home of FISU's "flame of knowledge". [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

When Changchun won the right to host the 33rd Winter Universiade on Nov 26, 2025, the flame's journey east began.

Located at a prime latitude for winter sports, Changchun boasts six ski resorts and 52 quality slopes. Olympic champions including Zhou Yang, Wu Dajing, Li Jianrou, and Qi Guangpu began their journeys here. The city is also home to nearly 50 universities and more than 600,000 students.

With the event approaching, Changchun is upgrading venues and services while prioritizing simplicity, safety, and excellence. Some 8,100 student volunteers from 26 universities in Changchun and Jilin are also preparing through phased training and full-process rehearsals.

Twelve sports will unfold across Changchun and Jilin from Jan 15 to 25, 2027, bringing young athletes together through the power of ice and snow.