(Yicai) Jan. 2 -- Shanghai has launched its annual Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Snake after Chinese New Year was added to a cultural heritage list by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

A snake-themed lantern installation takes center stage in a square of this popular tourist destination and shopping area. The festival will continue through Feb. 12.

Along Ninghui Road, butterfly-shaped lanterns illuminate the pedestrian walkway from above.

A mythical leopard-like creature stands guard at the Jiuqu Bridge entrance to Yuyuan Garden.

The Huabao Mansion, a cultural venue within the complex, hosts an exhibition chronicling the lantern festival's history.

Editor: Emmi Laine