Chinese people welcome New Year

People across China have celebrated the beginning of 2010 with huge crowds taking part in New Year revelry. They have expressed hope for a peaceful and joyful new year in a variety of ways.

Local residents gather at The Place Square to celebrate the upcoming New Year together in Beijing, China, on Dec. 31, 2009.(Xinhua/Gong Lei)

As the bell chimed, thousands of people made their New Year wishes in Xi'an, the capital city of Shaan'xi Province.

They prayed for their relatives, themselves, and for people around the world.

The bell ringing ceremony is a new year tradition for this historical city.

This year's ceremony was held at the South Gate of the ancient section of Xi'an.

The entrance is also called Yongning Gate, which means forever peaceful.

Policeman Gao Honglin said, "I just ring the bell, and I think it means peace and joy. In the new year, I will try my best to help people have a peaceful and joyful life."

For people in Shanghai, the year 2010 will be extra special for them.

The beginning of 2010 also means the beginning of the year in which the city will hold its World Expo.

Thousands of people gathered along the Bund to witness the arrival of the new year as colorful lights lit up the city's skyline.

"I hope my job goes well during the new year."

"I hope the world expo will be successful in Shanghai, and allow more people around the world to know China."

"I just want to say Happy New Year! And I hope I will have a bright future with my girlfriend."