The main poster of the China International Cartoon and Game Expo (CCG Expo). [Photo provided to english.shanghai.gov.cn]

The China International Cartoon and Game Expo (CCG Expo) celebrates its 20th anniversary this summer in Shanghai, transforming the city into a hotspot for anime and gaming enthusiasts.

The event, running from July 4 to 7 at the Shanghai Exhibition Center showcases the evolution of China's anime industry. This year's edition also features outdoor activities that extend until July 21.

CCG Expo 2024 features indoor and outdoor sections linked by a special "passport" for attendees to collect exclusive stamps. The indoor segment at the Shanghai Exhibition Center will take place from July 4 to 7, and presents premieres and showcases of anime and gaming works. Outdoor activities will take place from July 7 to 21, and will span across several key commercial areas like Nanjing Road, People's Square, and the Bund. These outdoor activities are set to offer diverse interactions and introduce new applications for anime and games.

The CCG Expo features a special exhibition on Dai Dunbang's "Uproar In Heaven". [Photo provided to english.shanghai.gov.cn]

The Expo hosts nearly 1,000 anime and gaming IPs from major companies like Tencent Video, Kingnet, Giant Network, and more. Highlights include a special exhibition on Dai Dunbang's "Uproar In Heaven" and premieres of original works like "ZhanShen" and "See You, My King".

The animated film Blue Lock: Episode Nagi will premiere nationwide on July 26, accompanied by exclusive merchandise. Additionally, a CCG Expo and MediaLink sports-themed street will offer interactive challenges that incorporate elements, such as popular sports-themed IPs.

The event includes a main stage, autograph area, and guest interaction zone, with activities like the CCG Virtual Idol Carnival. A special exhibition will also be set up to display historical posters and fan memorabilia to commemorate the 20th anniversary.

CCG Expo's collaborations with China Post and Bank of China will introduce exclusive CCG-themed stamps, postcards, and savings cards, promoting traditional communication and financial habits among the youth. The Expo will also launch customized cold brew teas in collaboration with traditional dining brands, blending traditional and contemporary cultures.

The CCG Expo "passport" allows attendees to collect exclusive stamps. [Photo provided to english.shanghai.gov.cn]

Expanding beyond the exhibition hall, CCG Expo promotes cultural tourism with city-wide anime-themed activities. The "passport" guides visitors through various "anime sanctuaries" and offers discounts at participating stores, encouraging community engagement and consumption.

The Expo's collaboration with public transportation includes Rin -themed buses and transportation cards, transforming city buses into mobile cultural exhibitions. In cinemas, the Animation Movie Carnival 2024 Japan Animation Film Screening will showcase popular Japanese films.

Following the success of Chinese Animation Appreciation Week in Japan, the Expo plans to continue this cultural exchange by showcasing top Chinese animated films in Japan.

Through these initiatives, CCG Expo aims to highlight the maturity and versatility of China’s anime and gaming industry, driving content and technological innovation. By integrating cutting-edge digital technologies, the expo seeks to unlock new commercial and cultural potential, positioning anime and games as drivers of social progress and economic growth.