Skiing

With the likes of Les Trois Vallées, Courchevel, St Anton am Arlberg and Val Thorens on our doorstep, finding the snowiest destinations for skiing and snowboarding is easy. However, for those looking to travel a little further afield to experience their favourite snow sports, China may surprise you.

Skiing is very popular in China. As a result, a number of four season resorts have sprung up across the region, providing artificial snow cover for summer and winter skiing. Most parts of northern China are also covered in the real thing during the winter months, making it the perfect ski destination for people of all ages and abilities. Here we give you the lowdown of the best ski resorts in China, so you can enjoy your own winter wonderland in Beijing.

Huaibei International Ski Resort

Surrounded by the Great Wall on three sides, Huaibei International Ski Resort provides a skiing experience like no other. As the name indicates, there is more to this resort than meets the eye. Classed as a recreational venue, Huaibei International Ski Resort offers skiing, dining, sightseeing and accommodation, all in one place. Children will also enjoy the resort’s snow circle, snow motor, snow shooting and ice climbing activities.

Jundushan Ski

Jundushan Ski may be closest to the city, but thanks to its advantageous position it is also the most popular resort amongst visitors and locals. Opposite Xiaotangshan Hot Spring, visitors can finish their long day of skiing with some much needed relaxation. Alternatively, they can continue skiing into the night thanks to the professionally lit slopes.

Nanshan Ski Village

Located just 30 minutes drive away from Beijing, Nanshan Ski Village has been popular since its opening in 2001. The resort has become one of the largest in China, with its artificial snow cover providing a well-equipped haven for snow seekers, whatever the weather. Travel blogger Steve (@SteveWBT) describes his visit to Nanshan Ski Village in this review on his blog You’re Not From Around Here, Are You?:

“Surprisingly, to me at least, this is only one of Beijing’s ten artificial ski resorts. Skiing has always been popular in China, but never really had any commercial success. Nanshan isn’t the largest or best, but does have the huge advantage of employing 40 international ski instructors, trained in Austria, who will give lessons in the language of your choice. The snow is generated for the November to February season, when the cold weather improves the quality considerably. During the off seasons it’s possible to go grass- or water-skiing, and other resorts offer accommodation and snowmobiling.”

Since Steve’s visit back in 2011, Nanshan Ski Village has more than tripled the number of certified instructors it employs, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Yabuli International Ski Resort

Officially the largest ski domain in China, Yabuli offers the tree clad mountains you’d expect from any ski resort. With 20 miles of ski runs on offer, the resort caters to all levels of skill as well as providing an insight into China’s wildlife. Located closer to Shangzhi than Beijing, a visit to Yabuli is well worth the long trip.

Not keen on skiing? You can enjoy the sights of Beijing on one of our Trans-Siberian journeys. View all trips departing from Beijing, or contact our team direct to discuss your requirements.