"In the performance, we try to show the openness of Guangzhou. Meanwhile, we're trying to appear open about the opening ceremony towards the public, too," said the 54-year-old Chen. "We keep inviting the local residents to attend the rehearsals as a way to repay them. The opening ceremony and the Asian Games would be impossible without their support."

However, Chen was keen to keep secret the method to be used to light the torch at the opening.

He said the organizing committee had received thousands of proposals from the public, including the use of the Shenzhou VIII spacecraft and a dragon boat. But the organizers came up with an idea themselves and decided to adopt it three months ago.

"There were various styles of ignition at the previous Olympics and Asiad. It could be magnificent, romantic, sweet and inconceivable," Chen said. "By now, I can't tell you our way, but I promise it will be very unique."

As well as the entertainment which, according to reports, will be highlighted by a stunning wushu show in the air, the athletes' entrance will be a central focus of the opening ceremony.

Different from the traditional style, in which all athletes pass the entrance of the stadium, some of the athletes at the coming games will begin their entry by boarding ships.

A total of 45 pleasure boats, which feature the landmarks of the 45 participating countries and regions, will embark on a 9.3-km cruise on the Pearl River to Haixinsha. About 5,000 people will do traditional performances while another 100,000 residents will welcome the athletes on the banks.