Skiing and Snowboarding in China 2024-2025

In winter, most parts of northern China are covered with snow. The capital city of Beijing is one of the most popular ski destinations. Its two celebrated winter resorts include Nanshan and Huaibei, both belong to China's top 5 skiing locations.

Best Time to Ski in China

The ski season in China varies depending on the resort, starting early in November and lasting to late April, and rarely up to June. However, the most convenient time for a skiing vacation is December through March. The snow season at China's ski resorts varies depending on the location as well. Traditionally, there's ample snowfall during the December-March period, but each ski resort's snow report should be checked before making travel arrangements to avoid inconveniences.

China's Top Ski Resorts

Nanshan Ski Resort is known as the best and largest one located near the capital, and Huaibei is famous for its ski glade surrounded by the Great Wall. Other popular resorts include Songhua Lake Ski Resort, Yabuli Ski Resort, and Southern Xiling Snow Mountain Ski Resort.

Nanshan Ski Resort

Nanshan Ski Resort, located in Beijing's Miyun District, is 62 kilometers from Wanghe Bridge on the North Fourth Ring Road and sits on the northern slope of Nanshan Mountain. Known for its excellent snow quality, stunning scenery, and pleasant climate, it is one of North China's top winter destinations for skiing and dynamic leisure sports. Dedicated to providing a safe and professional environment for ski enthusiasts, Nanshan Ski Resort has grown over the past 22 years to feature 26 slopes for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers, as well as teaching and snow entertainment slopes. The resort can accommodate over 10,000 visitors for both daytime and nighttime skiing.

Huaibei Ski Resort

Beijing Huaibei International Ski Resort stands out as the largest and most picturesque ski destination in Beijing. Nestled in the northern part of Huairou District, approximately 85 kilometers from the city center, this resort spans an impressive area of 9.6 square kilometers. It is uniquely situated beneath the stunning Ming-era Great Wall, with 23 watchtowers connected to the Mutianyu Great Wall. It is the only ski resort in Beijing that the Great Wall surrounds on three sides.

In winter, whether one is an enthusiastic skier or simply seeking leisure, Beijing Huaibei International Ski Resort serves as the perfect destination to showcase skiing skills or enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Great Wall blanketed in snow.

Songhua Lake Ski Resort

Songhua Lake Ski Resort, located within the scenic Songhua Lake Natural Scenic Spot, is an exceptional destination for both athletes and skiing enthusiasts. Situated in Wulihe Town, approximately 90 kilometers from Jilin City, the resort boasts around 160 snowy days each year. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, it benefits from a milder winter climate with less wind. Jilin is renowned for its breathtaking frost, creating stunning winter landscapes.

The resort features the BMW X1 Trail, which holds the title of the longest beginner trail in China, stretching 4.1 kilometers, allowing newcomers to relish the thrill of skiing from the peak to the base. For more experienced skiers, the BMW xDrive presents a challenging course capable of hosting super giant slalom races, with a total length of 1,883 meters.

Yabuli Ski Resort

Yabuli is the largest ski resort in China, situated near Shangzhi City, offering an ideal experience for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Rather than being a single resort, Yabuli comprises over ten smaller ski areas spread across three mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,374 meters (3,280 to 4,508 ft). The most renowned of these is Sun Mountain Ski Resort, home to China's first Club Med, popular for its beginner-friendly trails and modern facilities.

Yabuli Ski Resort is also a hub for various events, including the Asian Winter Games, and its modern facilities span 11 slopes, catering to all levels of visitors. Notably, the resort boasts the longest Alpine ski slope in Asia, making it a prime destination for skiing enthusiasts.

Xiling Snow Mountain Ski Resort

In South China, Xiling Snow Mountain is a massive and well-equipped alpine ski resort renowned for being the highest peak in Chengdu. This mountain is blanketed in snow year-round, creating a stunning landscape. Located just two hours from downtown Chengdu, the resort enjoys a snow season that stretches from November to late March, with snow depth exceeding 60 cm and excellent snow quality. The unique scenery of snow-covered plains in the southern region has earned it the title "Alps of the East." Xiling Snow Mountain Ski Resort is the largest in South China, offering expansive areas for skiing and various mountain leisure activities.