Circus acts and acrobatic performances drew in large crowds at Kunming's Global City International Circus on Jan 15.

Audiences were treated to an array of jaw-dropping performances on the day, including acrobatic acts, traditional circus performances and equestrian shows.

One highlight of the event involved a Ukrainian acrobat hanging upside down from a horse as it trotted around the ring.

A dazzling aerial acrobatics performance is held in Kunming, Yunnan province, on Jan 15. [Photo/kunming.cn]

A group of Russian aerial acrobats were also on hand to leave spectators open-mouthed as they swung through the air.

"The performance was really awesome," said Ms Sun, who witnessed the spectacle. "I almost had my heart in my mouth when the acrobats flew overhead."

Audiences are left amazed when this acrobat dangles from a horse upside down at a performance in Kunming, Yunnan province, on Jan 15. [Photo/kunming.cn]

The circus will put on shows twice a day (from 15:00 to 17:00 and 20:00 to 21:00) until Jan 26.

Founded in 2009, Global City International Circus integrates traditional circus performances with modern technology. Stories are displayed with advanced lighting techniques, stage design and sound effects.

Dogs line up to give acrobatic performance in Kunming, Yunnan province, on Jan 15. [Photo/kunming.cn]

Edited by Jacob Hooson