By Chuan-X Panda
Published: August 01, 2025 14:00 PM
Following the 2023 Chengdu Universiade, Chengdu city, Sichuan is set to host the 12th World Games on August 7, 2025. As an ancient cultural city in central and western China with a history of thousands of years, Chengdu is known as one of China's happiest cities. It has attracted a growing number of young Chinese to settle here, as well as more and more foreign friends to travel, work, invest, and engage in cultural and sports exchanges. With the upcoming opening of the Chengdu World Games, let's take a look at what its mascots are and what meanings they hold.
1. Meet the Mascots
The 2025 Chengdu World Games (officially the 12th World Games) has two adorable mascots: Shubao and Jinzai. Both are based on iconic Sichuan animals: Shubao(“蜀宝”) is a chubby giant panda, and Jinzai(“锦仔”) is a lively golden snub-nosed monkey—so they instantly feel "local."
Their designs are full of details: Shubao’s inner ears look like hibiscus petals (Chengdu’s city flower), while Jinzai’s outfit has patterns from Shu Brocade (local UNESCO-listed craft) and hints from the ancient Sanxingdui ruins(Ancient Shu civilization).
2. Why These Two?
Choosing a panda and a golden monkey isn't just about being cute. For one, these animals are stars of Sichuan’s wildlife protection efforts, which fits the World Games’ focus on "green hosting." The event uses 80% recycled equipment and turns city parks into venues, so the mascots highlight this eco-friendly spirit.
Their names also tell a story: "Shu" in Shubao refers to ancient Sichuan（蜀）, and "Jin" in Jinzai links to Shu Brocade （锦） and the Jinsha culture, connecting thousands of years of history to today’s sports vibe.
Giant pandas and Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys are representative of Sichuan's rare animals. The local pandas, known for their leisurely ways, and the agile, lively golden snub-nosed monkeys have long become urban icons. A large number of tourists travel to Sichuan, the hometown of pandas, to see pandas and monkeys in person. Panda lovers both at home and abroad flock to the official website of the Chengdu Panda Base online to check the real-time dynamics of pandas, and it is also common to see short videos of tourists being "teased" by the naughty local monkeys in Sichuan.
3. How to Buy Panda Shubao Mascot?
Shubao and Jinzai merch is already out! You can find it at official stores, like the popular one in Chengdu’s Qunguang Plaza—think canvas bags, badges, and plush toys. Pre-orders are available online. Hurry up and order it!
Plus, part of the money from sales goes to the Games’ eco-projects, so buying a souvenir also helps support green initiatives. It’s a nice way to take home a piece of the fun while contributing to a good cause.
In short, these mascots aren’t just cute—they’re Chengdu’s way of showing off its nature, culture, and love for sports. Come join the fun! We are waiting for you in Chengdu.