China’s Snow Holidays Fuel Winter Tourism Boom and Regional Economic Growth

Published on December 4, 2025

China’s newly introduced “snow holidays” are giving a significant boost to winter tourism, contributing to the economic development of regions known for their snow-covered landscapes. By aligning school breaks with peak snowfall seasons, the initiative has resulted in increased cross-regional travel and a rise in consumption in snow-and-ice industries. According to a leading Chinese travel agency, the policy is not only enhancing educational development but also generating substantial economic benefits by promoting winter tourism.

Snow Holidays and Tourism Growth in China

The “snow holidays” policy, now implemented in several provinces, allows students to enjoy winter vacations timed to coincide with the country’s prime snow season. This initiative has effectively driven an increase in the number of visitors to cities known for winter sports and snow attractions. Prominent destinations such as Harbin, Beijing, and Jilin have reported a noticeable uptick in tourist numbers during these special breaks.

Historically, China has been known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites, but the country is increasingly tapping into its natural winter offerings. With rising demand for winter getaways, many regions are now promoting a variety of snow activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snow sculpture festivals.

Harbin Leads the Way in Snow Tourism

Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang Province, is the most well-known snow destination in China. The city’s Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, featuring elaborate ice sculptures, attracts millions annually and is recognized as one of the world’s largest winter events. Besides the festival, Harbin boasts ski resorts, hot springs, and other winter sports opportunities, making it a central hub for snow-based tourism.

In addition to Harbin, Beijing and Jilin have seen a rise in visitors thanks to the snow holidays. Beijing’s ski resorts, such as Nanshan Ski Resort and Changping Ski Resort, are drawing both local and out-of-town tourists. Meanwhile, Jilin Province, known for its snow-covered mountains, is emerging as a favorite winter destination, offering visitors a mix of skiing, snowboarding, and traditional activities like ice fishing.

Economic Impact and Regional Growth

The snow holidays have triggered economic growth in winter tourism hotspots by boosting local economies. As snow-related tourism grows, so does demand for accommodations, restaurants, transportation, and winter gear. The increase in visitor numbers during the snow holidays has led to higher revenues for businesses, from hotels to ski rentals. Harbin, for example, has seen a significant surge in income from domestic and international tourists during the winter months.

Moreover, ski resorts in cities like Beijing are also experiencing increased bookings, with tourists eager to enjoy China’s modern winter sports facilities. The snow holidays have also encouraged more travel to remote, snow-covered destinations, stimulating infrastructure development in smaller cities and rural areas. New transportation networks and winter resorts are helping distribute the economic benefits of winter tourism more evenly across China.

Facilitating Cross-Regional Travel and Expanding Markets

One of the key advantages of the snow holidays is promoting cross-regional travel. The initiative encourages students and their families to explore winter destinations in other provinces, broadening the tourism flow beyond traditional summer hotspots. As a result, regions like Yunnan and Sichuan, usually associated with summer tourism, are now attracting more winter visitors.

Additionally, lesser-known regions like Xinjiang and Tibet, with their stunning mountain landscapes, are increasingly becoming popular for winter tourists. These areas offer activities like winter trekking and snow sports, providing an opportunity to explore China’s diverse environments and cultures during the colder months.

China’s Winter Tourism: A Bright Future Ahead

With the snow holidays proving successful, China is poised to continue expanding its winter tourism sector. The government has recognized the potential of winter tourism as an integral part of the country’s broader tourism strategy, aiming to create sustainable, year-round destinations that attract both domestic and international visitors.

Looking ahead, China may focus on building more winter resorts, improving transportation links, and enhancing promotional efforts to attract more overseas tourists. The country is also exploring the possibility of hosting international winter sports events, further strengthening its position as a global leader in snow tourism.

Conclusion: Winter Tourism as a Key Pillar for China’s Travel Industry

The snow holidays initiative has unlocked new opportunities for winter tourism in China, fostering domestic travel and stimulating economic growth in snow-rich regions. Cities like Harbin, Beijing, and Jilin are benefiting from the growing demand for winter experiences. Continued investment in winter tourism infrastructure and the success of the snow holidays are positioning China to become a dominant force in the global snow-and-ice tourism market, with the potential for lasting growth in the sector for years to come.