Did you know China is becoming a hot new ski destination? If you’re looking for somewhere new and exciting to go on a snow sports holiday then China is well worth a look. In this article we’ll explore your options for a ski vacation in China and make some recommendations of where to go based on your experience level and your desire for adventure.
Your Introduction to Skiing in China
China is The Fastest Growing Ski Scene in the World
China has fallen in love with skiing and snowboarding. In fact, interest in skiing and snowboarding is growing in China faster than anywhere – and now there are over 700 ski resorts throughout the country, many of which have opened since the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. In fact, snow sports are now so popular in China that there are dozens of year-round skiing and snowboarding facilities, including the world’s biggest indoor snow park that just opened in Shanghai.
Where to go Snow Skiing in China
Ski areas in China are found in three main regions – the mid northeast near Beijing, the far northeast near Harbin (right above North Korea), and the far northwest in the remote Xinjiang province bordering Krygyzstan.
So let’s take a closer look at some our top picks for skiing in China.
Resorts for Families and Racers
The two northeastern regions are excellent places for families who want to experience an amazing winter holiday together – on and off the ski runs. Ski racers also say that these are great training destinations because the machine-made snow is high-quality and extremely consistent. That allows them to hone their technique in the nearest thing possible to controlled conditions.
Chongli Ski Resorts (Zhangjiakou)
A modern and popular destination just a couple of hours from Beijing is known for its world-class facilities and as a skiing and boarding venue for the 2022 Winter Olympics. The Chongli area is an excellent choice for skiers of all levels, and its resorts also offer plenty of activities for the non-skiers in your family.
Songhua Lake Ski Resort (Jilin)
Far up in northeast China in the Jilin/Harbin region this resort offers great skiing conditions - mainly on machine made snow in beautiful natural surroundings. Like most other ski areas in China there’s also a wide range of activities for all the family. This is because skiing is still so new in China most local skiing families have only one or two skiers, but they still like to vacation together as a family.
Resorts for experienced and adventurous skiers
The northwestern region of China is a true mountain adventure destination for more experienced skiers who are looking for an intriguing alternative vs Japan, Canada or Europe.
Tianshan Tianchi Ski Resort (Xinjiang)
Tianshan Tianchi is a wonderfully scenic resort in an exotic and culturally different part of China, near the border to Krygzstan. A ski trip here will be an unforgettable adventure.
All Xinjiang ski resorts boast excellent natural snowfall, varied terrain, no crowds, and a big variety of other holiday activities.
What to Wear for Skiing in China
China can be extremely cold – much colder than you would usually experience when you’re skiing in New Zealand. Temperatures at ski resorts in China are often well below freezing and stay cold all day long, even when its sunny. That means you need high quality ski clothing and to dress in layers. At Outside Sports we specialise in the world’s best brands for extreme mountain environments. And it makes sense to buy from us before you go, because our prices are usually half to two thirds cheaper than you’ll pay in China (and you can earn loyalty points on every purchase!)
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Skiing in China is Amazing Value for Money
Despite its rapidly growing popularity skiing and traveling in China is cheap compared to the usual northern hemisphere destinations. That means you can save a lot of money on your skiing holiday and have plenty left over to spend on awesome snow gear at Outside Sports before you go 😁.
Visiting China is Easier Than Ever Before
New Zealand citizens no longer need a visa for trips to China lasting less than 31 days. At Outside Sports we can help you build a package of everything you need for a great ski trip. If you need any help or advice please contact lu@outsidesports.co.nz - Lu is from China and has a lot of skiing experience over there.
Was Skiing Invented in China?
Maybe! In 2005, cave paintings depicting ski-bound hunters were discovered in Xinjiang’s Altay Prefecture and are estimated to be 12,000 years old, which suggests that skiing might have originated there before spreading through Russia, Finland and Scandinavia.
We’re so excited about going skiing in China we're planning a trip next year! How about you? At Outside Sports stores in Tekapo, Queenstown and Wanaka, and at our amazing online store, we stock everything you need for a ski trip of a lifetime - to China and everywhere else in the world. And we’re always here to help you with expert advice from people who love skiing adventures – just like you.