Amid subzero temperatures in Beitun, a county-level city in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the frozen Jade Belt River has become the stage for a unique cultural spectacle: ice dragon boat racing. Now in its third year since launching in 2024, the event drew teams who navigated dragon-headed vessels equipped with ice blades using specialized picks, transforming the -20°C landscape into a vibrant arena of competition and community celebration.
Spectators braved the cold to witness crews rhythmically drive their boats across the ice, their cheers echoing alongside the scrape of blades. The race highlights local adaptations of traditional dragon boat culture, blending athleticism with winter survival skills unique to northern China's climate.
Local authorities report growing interest in the event, which has boosted winter tourism and fostered cultural pride. Analysts note such initiatives align with broader efforts to develop niche winter sports markets in China following the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics legacy.
