As winter sweeps across China, excitement is in the air. From the frosty streets of Harbin to the snow-capped peaks of Zhangjiakou, the nation is transforming into a winter wonderland. According to the China’s Ice and Snow Tourism Development Report (2025) released on January 5 by the China Tourism Academy, the 2024-2025 winter season is expected to attract a staggering 520 million visitors seeking ice and snow leisure experiences. This surge in winter tourism is projected to generate over 630 billion yuan (approximately $86 billion) in revenue.
China is not just welcoming the cold—it’s embracing it as a catalyst for economic growth. With ambitious plans laid out by the General Office of the State Council in November 2024, the country aims to expand its ice and snow economy to an impressive 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030. These targets underscore China’s commitment to developing winter sports and related industries, offering new opportunities for adventure enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike.
The booming industry is set to offer a plethora of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice sculpture festivals and traditional winter celebrations. For young people in China and beyond, this means more exciting destinations and experiences to explore during the chilly months. As global interest in winter sports continues to rise, China’s snow and ice industry stands poised to become a major player on the world stage.
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Winter's arrival fuels the growth of China's snow and ice industry
cgtn.com
