As temperatures plunge across northern China, ski resorts in Shanxi Province have officially opened their slopes for the 2025-26 winter season. In Datong city, enthusiasts are already carving fresh tracks through powdery snow, with resort operators reporting a 30% increase in early-season bookings compared to last year.
The province's 12 major ski destinations have upgraded facilities to cater to both beginners and advanced athletes, reflecting China's growing ice-and-snow sports economy following the 2022 Winter Olympics. Local tourism authorities highlight that winter sports now contribute $850 million annually to Shanxi's economy.
"This season marks a milestone in our efforts to develop year-round tourism," said Wang Lin, a Shanxi Cultural and Tourism Bureau representative. "Our resorts combine modern amenities with access to historical sites like the Yungang Grottoes, creating unique winter travel packages."
With new high-speed rail connections reducing travel time from Beijing to under three hours, international visitors account for 25% of current bookings. The province aims to attract 2 million winter sports participants by March 2026.
