The snow-capped Tianshan Tianchi UNESCO Global Geopark transformed into a winter wonderland this week as its annual ice festival launched on January 18, 2026. Against a backdrop of frozen lakes and mountain peaks, over 5,000 visitors experienced opening-day festivities featuring traditional Uygur drum performances and Kazakh eagle dances.
This year's expanded program introduces 30+ ice-snow activities, including night skiing under LED-lit slopes and AI-assisted ice sculpture workshops. Tourism officials highlight the 'Nine Days of New Year Fun' initiative running through February as a key driver for regional economic growth, with local homestays reporting 95% occupancy through mid-March.
'Our winter programs generated 2.3 billion yuan last season,' said Zhao Li, director of Xinjiang's Cultural Tourism Bureau. 'This year we're targeting 40% growth through enhanced digital booking systems and cross-regional travel packages.'
Business analysts note increased interest from overseas investors in Northwest China's winter sports infrastructure following Beijing's 2022 Winter Olympics legacy initiatives. The festival's new ice racing circuit has already attracted sponsorship from three international sportswear brands.
With direct high-speed rail connections now linking Tianchi to Urumqi's international airport, organizers anticipate record attendance from both domestic travelers and international visitors exploring China's Silk Road winter heritage.
