Nestled in the snow-capped Altay Mountains of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Jikepulin International Ski Resort has rapidly transformed into one of Asia's premier winter destinations. Boasting powder-soft snow, an annual snowfall exceeding 3 meters, and a ski season stretching from October to April, the resort attracted over 1.2 million visitors during the 2024-2025 season – a 35% increase from the previous year.
While skiers carve fresh tracks by day, the mountain's silent heroes work under moonlight. Snowcat operator Tudjiang Pana, a local Uygur resident, begins his shift at midnight, meticulously grooming 35 kilometers of slopes.
"We sculpt the snow like artists,"
he explains, describing how his team creates ideal conditions for both beginners and Olympians training at the resort's advanced facilities.
The resort's growth mirrors China's expanding winter sports economy, which has seen a 200% increase in participation since 2015. With new high-speed rail connections to Ürümqi and sustainable tourism initiatives, Jikepulin stands as a model for regional development through sport.
