ST Andrew Square is being illuminated by three of The Giant Lanterns of China which will feature as part of the winter event at the RZSS Edinburgh Zoo.

The flamingo, penguin and panda designs are part of a limited edition pop-up showcasing the first selection of sculptures, shipped 5000 miles from the Far East.

They will join a further 450 lanterns at the Edinburgh Zoo event this winter.

A team of Chinese craftsmen are producing 34 bespoke installations with a total of 25,000 hours of work in partnership with the VYA Creative Lantern Company and DDM Entertainment and Events Inc.

Travelling with the lanterns, will be a core team of master craftsmen to make final preparations and maintain the intricate sculptures throughout the festival.

The Giant Lanterns of China festival explores three themes: China, RZSS Edinburgh Zoo, and the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s worldwide animal conservation work.

It will feature 211 animal-themed lanterns, a 19-foot high and 115-foot long Chinese dragon, Chinese heritage symbols and flowers, insects and fauna.