The Emergence of Harbin as a Ski Destination

Harbin, a city in northern China known for its harsh winter temperatures, is rapidly transforming into a major skiing destination due to government support and a strategic initiative called the 'ice and snow economy.' The city previously attracted visitors for its Russian architecture but is now recognized for its spectacular ice sculptures and winter festivals, making it a popular winter wonderland. This shift aligns with China's broader goal to engage 300 million citizens in winter sports, a target met ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics. The push towards winter tourism includes significant investments in ski resorts and related industries, with forecasts estimating the sector's value to reach $205 billion by 2030.