China's winter sports industry is celebrating a historic start to its 2025-2026 ice and snow season, with ski resorts nationwide reporting 35 million visits in the first month alone — a 10% year-on-year increase. The General Administration of Sport of China revealed this week that international visitors contributed significantly to the growth, with 190,000 overseas arrivals marking a 66% surge from last season.
Analysts attribute the boom to expanded visa-free entry policies and sustained momentum from Beijing's 2022 Winter Olympics legacy. "This season's performance confirms China's emergence as a global winter sports destination," said tourism expert Li Wei. "Improved infrastructure and international marketing campaigns are paying dividends."
Key regional highlights include:
Jilin Province's premium powder snow attracting 5.2 million visitors
New high-speed rail connections boosting accessibility to Hebei resorts
Night skiing facilities in Beijing recording 90% occupancy rates
With the Chinese government targeting 500 million winter sports participants by 2030, industry leaders are watching how this season's momentum could accelerate investment in related infrastructure and services across northern regions.
