As the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games captivate global audiences, China’s winter economy is stealing the spotlight with a record-breaking surge in snow sports and tourism. From ice festivals in Harbin to new ski resorts in Hebei, the Chinese mainland is transforming frosty landscapes into economic goldmines. ❄️💰
Why Now?
Domestic travel has skyrocketed this winter, with over 300 million trips recorded since December 2025. Andy Mok, a senior researcher at the Center for China and Globalization, credits this to ‘snowballing’ middle-class demand for leisure and lifestyle experiences. 🏔️ ‘Winter tourism isn’t just about skiing anymore—it’s about hot springs, cultural events, and Instagrammable ice sculptures,’ he says.
Beyond the Slopes
Finland’s Suomutunturi Ski Resort CEO Kari Tirkkonen highlights China’s infrastructure investments: ‘High-speed rail links and AI-powered resorts are making remote areas accessible.’ Meanwhile, sports analyst Paul Dong notes that Gen-Z travelers are driving trends like ‘snowcation’ hybrid trips blending adventure and relaxation. 🚄✨
Future Frost
With winter sports revenue projected to grow 15% annually through 2030, opportunities are snowballing. From eco-friendly gear startups to winter-themed e-commerce livestreams, China’s cold-weather economy is just getting started. 🌨️📈
