Winter in China is a very special time since this enormous country accommodates for pretty much every type of activity. From enjoying the unique icy wonders of Harbin to the snowy wonderland of Shuangfeng to warming up in China’s tropical regions. There’s something for everybody during the winter in this wonderful country.
1. Explore Harbin and See the Ice Festival
This provincial capital is really a unique place. About a century ago, it was built by Russians who came with the Tran Siberian train tracks and brought new culture to the region. Dozens of immigrants influenced architecture, religion, food and trade and evidences to all still exist in Harbin’s streets today. At the city center you will find temples, churches and even 2 old synagogues, stand close by.
However, winter is when the city truly comes to life because that’s when the Harbin International Ice Festival is happening. The entire city is transformed into a winter wonderland with an enormous frosty theme park(s) made entirely from ice. This is definitely the best time to visit Harbin and luckily there are a lot of great tours to choose from. Find out everything you can do in Harbin here.
2. Stay Warm in Sanya
Whenever China is mentioned, not a lot of people think of tropical beaches. Sanya is considered to be the Hawaii of China because in many ways, it is. It has perfect fine sand and a very long beach, with a great number of hotels and resorts, with beach fronts. Many of the international brads already established their resorts there, and the local options can be more impressive even.
It’s so popular, people from every part of China, as well as Siberia, visit it constantly in the colder months. Accommodations can easily suit anyone’s budget, and you will find all sorts of attractions and entertainment.
3. Tread in China’s Deepest Snow
Shuangfeng Forest Farm is a little village that used to be as large as a single street. In recent years, however, it’ gained a lot of fame for its seven-month-long snowfall, and because of that, it’s considered to have the deepest snows in China.
Former logging houses are now transformed into guest lodges, and the already impeccable charm of China’s Snow Town makes for one unique place to visit during the winter. Note: require Chinese?
4. See Frosty Crystals in Jilin City
Jilin City has a unique position near Siberia and when the cold winds hit the warmth of the nearby Songhua River, almost every tree in the city fills with rime. This natural phenomenon is considered one of the four natural wonders in China and it’s a really unique thing to see. All bits and pieces on the trees are layered with frost, and the rime that forms creates an entirely surreal experience.
5. Go Skiing in Many Parts of the Country
Skiing has always been popular in China. The 2022 Winter Olympics only increased the country’s focus on its many excellent ski resorts. There are numerous ski slopes across the land, but sadly not a lot of foreigners have heard of them. Spots like the Yabuli Ski Resort, Nanshan, and Chongli are considered some of the most popular ones, however there are many others. Skiing is something the Chinese have always enjoyed and practiced, and with the upcoming Olympics it’s only going to get more popular.
China can be a fantastic winter wonderland. The natural beauty is always present, both in its frosty and tropical parts of the land. There’s always something wonderful to see and do during winter in China, and everybody should consider visiting during that season at least once.