Extending Blessings to the Whole World

The Beijing Olympic Games mascots follow a long tradition of Chinese people delivering blessings through symbols. The Five Friendlies carry with them best wishes for happiness, passion, sound health, and good luck. Carrying the enthusiasm and hospitality of Beijing people, they are spreading the blessings to every corner of the world, inviting people from different countries to join in, enjoy, and celebrate the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

In traditional Chinese culture and folk arts, "fish" and "water" designs symbolize prosperity and harvest, and people often compare "A carp leaping over the dragon 's gate" to an accomplished career or the fulfillment of a dream. Besides, a "fish" pattern also implies "year-on-year surplus" or "abundant harvest year on year," which means another good year and a good life. Hence, Bei Bei, the fish among the Five Friendlies, is the incarnation of prosperity.  

Ornamental lines of water waves are employed in Bei Bei's headgear. Gentle and pure-hearted, Bei Bei, reflecting the blue ring of the Five Olympic Rings, is believed to be a master at water sports

Jing Jing, a charmingly na?ve and optimistic panda, brings happiness to people wherever he goes. As a national treasure, the panda has always been a favorite of the world.

Having his origin in the vast forest, Jing Jing symbolizes the harmonious co-existence of human beings and nature.

His headgear features the lotus design, which is often seen on the ceramics of the Song Dynasty (960-1279). Jing Jing is the symbol of strength, representing the black Olympic ring.

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