6 must-visit ski resorts in the Chinese Mainland

In the past, going on a ski holiday usually meant choosing between popular destinations such as Hokkaido in Japan or the Swiss Alps. Now, we’re spoilt with options closer to Hong Kong – the success of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics has sparked a surge of interest in winter sports across the Chinese Mainland, leading to a rapid increase in the number of ski resorts.  

It’s a win for local ski enthusiasts, as you no longer need to travel far from the city to experience a snowy getaway. Read on to discover winter sport destinations that are accessible by high-speed train or a short flight, from a resort in the suburbs of Beijing to an indoor snow park in Guangzhou. 

1. Wintastar, Shanghai

Covering 350,000 square metres, the world's largest indoor ski resort, Wintastar Shanghai, opened its doors on 6 September 2024. It’s arrived just in time to catch the tail end of summer and is set to become the city’s coolest spot for beating the heat. 

Located by Dishui Lake in Shanghai's Lingang area, this resort combines entertainment, shopping, and accommodation. Among its three on-site hotels, 17 suites come with direct access to the slopes, providing guests with a seamless experience.

Inside the huge snow area – which is kept at a brisk -5°C – you’ll find three professional-grade slopes and 20 different activities to try. While experts can show off their free-fall skills on the ski jump, beginners can sign up for a ski course on dedicated slopes under the guidance of professional ski instructors. 

The park is designed with a Nordic flair, complete with fir trees and fairytale-like wooden cabins. To enjoy this wintry scene, you can board an indoor snow train – the first of its kind in the Chinese Mainland.

Getting there: make the 30-minute drive from Shanghai Pudong International Airport or take Metro Line 16 to Lingang Avenue Station and walk for about 10 minutes.

Where to stay: the spa centre at Kerry Hotel Pudong , Shanghai boasts restorative treatments inspired by Wudang martial arts, perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day of skiing.

2. Chengdu Sunac Snow World

Since opening in 2020, Chengdu Sunac Snow World has welcomed more than a million visitors. Located in Dujiangyan, to the north-west of Chengdu in Sichuan province, Snow World offers year-round snow and a touch of Sichuan's unique cultural charms, with Qiang-style buildings and blossom-covered trees sprinkled across the indoor park.  

The 80,800-square-metre venue is also brimming with snow-themed activities; in addition to skiing and tobogganing, you can ride on spinning snow bumper cars or drive a snow tank around a dedicated track. If you consider yourself a skilled skier, don’t miss the opportunity to take on the advanced "Tiger Trail," which lets you experience the thrill of racing down from 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 bus No. 14 to the Sunac Cultural Tourism City stop. 

Where to stay: Hilton Chengdu Chenghua is only an 11-minute drive from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, allowing you to add a unique animal encounter to your trip.

3. Guangzhou Sunac Snow Park

Fancy a spur-of-the-moment skiing holiday? A trip to the Greater Bay Area could be in order. Hop on the high-speed rail to Guangzhou North Station, and the Guangzhou Sunac Snow Park is just a 20-minute taxi ride from there.  

Decorated with mountain scenery and Rhenish architecture, this 75,000-square-metre indoor ski park boasts five ski runs of different levels, and a 70-metre long snowboarding practice slope where enthusiasts can hone their skills. Beginners are well cared for; the Snow Park not only offers ski courses, but also provides free ski equipment. 

Slopes aside, the park features unique ice and snow activities. If you’re daring enough, why not try the high-top obstacle course or suspended zipline? Meanwhile, the crystal-clear ice slide brings you to the ground in just 10 seconds – a ride of both chills and thrills. 

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 , located near the ski resort, features a tropical-style outdoor swimming pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of action. 

4. Nanshan Ski Resort, Beijing

Nestled in the snow-capped mountains of Miyun District in northeast Beijing, Nanshan Ski Resort gives guests the chance to practise snow sports in a serene outdoor setting, while still being conveniently close to the city at just over an hour's drive from the airport. 

The resort features 26 ski trails, with levels ranging from beginner to advanced, along with practice slopes for kids, making it an ideal destination for families. It also boasts multiple chair lifts and 16 automatic conveyor belts connecting different routes, allowing skiers to choose the one that suits them best. 

If a day of skiing isn't enough, you can take advantage of Nanshan Ski Resort’s night hours, which run from 6.30pm to 10.00pm, and glide under the stars until late. Meanwhile, various restaurants around the resort offer cosy terrace seating for a meal with a view.

Getting there: take the Beijing-Harbin high-speed train from Beijing Chaoyang Station to reach Miyun Station in around 30 minutes, then 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 features thermal baths in each guestroom, and the Panlong Mountain section of the Great Wall is within walking distance.

5. Yunding Ski Park, Hebei Province

Has this summer's Olympic fever got you itching to hone your skills? Located in Hebei Province, to the northeast of Zhangjiakou city in Chongli District, Genting Resort Secret Garden Ski Resort has serious sporting credentials: it played host to the FIS World Ski Championships in 2021 and was the main venue for the 2022 Winter Olympics. 

This resort is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with Olympic-standard trails and various jumps for you to fully test your abilities. If you’re still learning the ropes, the park's ski school – staffed by highly qualified, multilingual instructors – provides lessons with priority access to the ski lifts for students.

Where to stay: located within the resort, the Genting Grand Chongli features rustic-chic rooms with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. 

Getting there: take the Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed train from Beijing North Railway Station, arriving at Taizicheng Station in about an hour. From there, you’ll find various resort and hotel shuttle services.

6. Thaiwoo Ski Resort, Hebei Province 

Also located in Chongli District, Thaiwoo Ski Resort , is an excellent option if you’re travelling with family. The resort is ideally situated in Hebei’s “golden zone for skiing”. It has 31 ski runs totalling more than 30 kilometres in length, plus cable cars and high-quality equipment for various snow activities.  

What makes this resort extra appealing for children is its snow carnival park, featuring giant ice sculptures, large snow slides, and games to keep the little ones entertained. Meanwhile, parents can relax at the on-site snow café, enjoying the beautiful scenery – and peace! 

The resort is well-equipped with facilities, including chains like Starbucks, hot pot restaurants, and izakayas, serving up an endless supply of winter dishes. It also boasts several hotels, including the Ski Town Xueluju Hot Spring Hotel, where you can soak in a hot spring bath after an exhilarating day on the slopes. 

Where to stay: with contemporary, state-of-the-art facilities, Hyatt Place Chongli is conveniently located, just a stone’s throw from Thaiwoo Ski Resort. 

Getting there: take the Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed train from Beijing North Railway Station, arriving at Taizicheng Station in about an hour, then take the free shuttle bus to Thaiwoo Ski Resort. 

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