Hot culture in a cold climate

More than snow

Xinjiang sits in the world's golden latitude belt for snow and ice and enjoys an average snow season of over 100 days each year, delivering excellent snow quality. The unique geography of the region, a mixture of mountains and basins, creates favorable conditions for skiing with significant elevation differences and moderate slopes. Several regions within Xinjiang's rugged mountains have been converted into ski resorts featuring top-tier facilities.

Altay prefecture, in the north of Xinjiang, is known for its long winter season that can last up to eight months and its vast area of natural powder snow.

The Jiangjunshan Ski Resort in Altay is among the few high-altitude resorts located in a city center. The resort boasts 72 ski slopes, two of which are certified by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation and can host international competitions. The resort also introduced paragliding and hot air balloons this year.

Snowmobiles are also arranged for visitors to explore the wonders of nature around the resort.

After bidding farewell to Jiangjunshan, head to Ulungur Lake, which is less than a two-hour drive. The lake in Altay's Fuhai county offers spectacular winter fishing events that will last till March. As one of the largest inland freshwater lakes in China, Ulungur has seen fishermen employing traditional methods such as digging holes in its frozen surface, casting nets, and hauling tons of fish up through the ice.