7 must-visit ski resorts in the Chinese Mainland

Going on a ski holiday used to mean choosing between popular European destinations, such as Les Trois Vallées in France or the Swiss Alps. Today, we’re spoilt for choice closer to Hong Kong. From one of the world’s largest indoor ski parks in Shenzhen to the “snow capital” of Altay, Xinjiang region – discover the top skiing destinations across the Chinese Mainland. 

Best indoor snow parks in the Chinese Mainland 

1. Huafa Snow BONSKI (Huafa Ice and Snow World), Shenzhen 

Experience year‑round skiing at one of the world’s largest indoor ski resorts in Shenzhen’s Qianhai Bay. This 100,000sqm complex features five slopes along a 460-metre run with an 83-metre vertical drop, as well as a beginner-friendly 192-metre slope with a gentle incline.  

Getting there: take Shenzhen Metro Line 11 to Line 20 via Convention & Exhibition City Station (Exit B). From Hong Kong International Airport, you can enjoy seamless Air + Land cross-boundary transfer or ferry in via Direct Air + Sea connection, getting you there in around one to two hours. 

Where to stay: The soon-to-be open Shenzhen Huafa JW Marriott Hotel offers direct access to the ski resort for seamless ski-in, ski-out experience. 

2. Wintastar, Shanghai 

Located next to Dishui Lake, Shanghai’s Wintastar brings together entertainment, dining, shopping, three themed hotels, a Viking‑themed water park and a 968,000sqft Nordic‑themed indoor ski area. It’s the perfect family-friendly ski park, featuring three professional slopes and more than 25 non‑ski activities, including the Chinese Mainland’s first indoor snow train.  

Getting there: drive 30 minutes from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, or take Metro Line 16 to Lingang Avenue, followed by a 10-minute walk.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Shanghai Lingang is within convenient access via Metro Line 16 and close to other major attractions in the area.

3. Chengdu Sunac Snow World

Situated in Dujiangyan to the north-west of Chengdu, Sunac Snow World combines Sichuan's unique cultural charm and traditional Qiang-style buildings inside a winter wonderland. The ski area spans seven floors of activities, including tobogganing, bumper cars and snow tanks. Seasoned skiers can challenge themselves on an advanced slope that starts on the 22nd floor.

Getting there: take the metro to Xipu High-speed Railway Station, then transfer to the high-speed train to Dujiangyan High-speed Railway Station. Finally, take a bus No.14 to the Sunac Cultural Tourism City stop. 

Where to stay: Anantara Xiling Snow Mountain Chengdu Resort offers direct access to private hot springs from guestrooms and mountain backdrops. Located 20 minutes from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a stay here adds a unique animal encounter to your trip.

4. Guangzhou Sunac Snow Park 

Best for a spontaneous family ski trip, Guangzhou Sunac Snow Park is styled with mountain scenery and Rhenish architecture. This 75,000sqm indoor ski park offers five ski runs, a snowboard training slope, beginner lessons with free equipment and attractions for all ages, including a rope course, zipline and ice slide. 

Getting there: take the high-speed rail from West Kowloon Station to Guangzhou North Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride. Alternatively, take Metro Line 9 in Guangzhou to Ma'anshan Park Station, then transfer to Bus No.19 at Exit C to reach Sunac Land Station. 

Where to stay: The Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Huadu features an outdoor swimming pool, ideal for relaxing après-ski dip.  

Best ski areas in the Chinese Mainland

5. Jiangjunshan Ski Resort, Altay

The Chinese Mainland’s skiing legacy comes alive in Altay, the nation’s “snow capital”. At its heart is Jiangjunshan Ski Resort, Xinjiang region’s first natural ski resort. The resort features 17 kilometres of ski runs between 900 metres and 1,325 metres above sea level and is especially popular with snowboarders.

Getting there: you can fly into Altay from Urumqi, but many skiers prefer to board the “China’s Snow Capital Altay” Y965 night train from Urumqi. From Altay, it's an easy ride to the resort via taxi or shuttle bus.

Where to stay: UrCove by Hyatt Altay in the central business district is a six‑minute drive from the resort, putting you right in the centre of the action.

6. Nanshan Ski Resort, Beijing 

Located in the snow-capped mountains of Miyun District in northeast Beijing, Nanshan Ski Resort is just over an hour's drive from the airport. The family-friendly resort offers 26 trails for all levels, including practice slopes for kids. If one day isn’t enough, Nanshan also offers night skiing until 10pm. Afterwards, unwind and refuel at the resort’s cosy restaurants with terrace seating and scenic views.

Getting there: A taxi from the airport is the easiest option. Or, the Beijing-Harbin high-speed train from Beijing Chaoyang Station reaches Miyun Station in around 30 minutes. From there, transfer to a taxi or the Nanshan Ski Resort shuttle bus for a 10-minute ride to the slopes.

Where to stay: Vangen Spa Hotel offers private hot-spring style suites and sits in the Gubeikou/Panlongshan Great Wall area, a scenic add-on to your ski trip. 

7. Silk Road Ski Resort, Urumqi 

If you prefer to stay closer to the capital, Silk Road Ski Resort in Urumqi sits between 1,850 and 2,500 metres up in the Tianshan Mountains. It’s considered one of the country’s premier ski destinations and offers 10 kilometres of marked runs, including advanced slopes for experienced skiers. 

Getting there: take a taxi directly to the resort; seasonal shuttle options from Urumqi are also available.

Where to stay: Sleek, stylish and comfortable, Conrad Urumqi connects you to city landmarks and upscale shopping.

This story was originally published in September 2024 and updated in March 2026. 

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