Chasing Snow in China: The 9 Best Outdoor Ski Resorts You Can’t Miss This Winter

Skiing in China has transformed dramatically in the past decade. Thanks to world-class resorts, modern infrastructure, and incredible natural scenery, China is now one of Asia’s fastest-growing ski destinations. Whether you’re chasing powder snow, Olympic-standard slopes, or family-friendly resorts, these Top 9 outdoor ski destinations are your ultimate winter playgrounds.

Below, find the best regions, ideal travel times, and insider tips to help you plan your perfect snow getaway.

1. Jilin Province — The Heart of China’s Ski Culture

Best Time: November – Late March Top Resorts:

• Beidahu Ski Resort – Known for hosting international competitions and excellent snow quality.

• Vanke Songhua Lake Ski Resort – Great for beginners and families, with scenic lakeside views.

• Wanda Changbaishan International Ski Resort – A luxury choice with a full-service ski town and hot springs.

Travel Tip: Combine skiing with a visit to Changbai Mountain for stunning volcanic landscapes and relaxing hot springs.

2. Heilongjiang — China’s Classic Snow Paradise

Best Time: Mid-November – Late March Top Resort:

• Yabuli Ski Resort – The oldest and largest ski resort in China, often compared to Hokkaido. It’s home to professional slopes, snowboard parks, and scenic alpine forests.

Why Go: Yabuli offers a mix of challenging runs for advanced skiers and comfortable lodges for leisure travelers.

Travel Tip: Visit during January to enjoy nearby Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, one of the world’s most spectacular winter events.

3. Xinjiang — The Untouched Powder Frontier

Best Time: Early October – March Top Resorts:

• Keketuohai International Ski Resort – One of China’s most scenic backcountry ski areas, surrounded by dramatic granite peaks.

• Hemu Ski Resort – A charming village resort that captures the beauty of traditional Kazakh culture.

• General Mountain Ski Resort – Great for off-piste adventures and deep powder.

Why Go: Xinjiang offers the longest ski season in China and some of the driest, fluffiest snow you’ll ever experience.

Travel Tip: Hemu Village is also famous for its log cabins — a perfect setting for a cozy après-ski evening under the stars.

4. Hebei — The Olympic Experience near Beijing

Best Time: Early November – Late March Top Resorts:

• Yunding Ski Resort – Hosted the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics freestyle and snowboarding events.

• Wanlong Ski Resort – Offers more than 30 well-maintained runs and professional facilities for both pros and families.

Why Go: Just a 3-hour drive from Beijing, Hebei’s Chongli District is now China’s most accessible and developed ski hub.

Travel Tip: Stay at a slope-side resort and enjoy night skiing — a growing trend among locals and visitors alike.

Planning Your Ski Trip in China

Visa & Transport:

• Major ski destinations (Jilin, Heilongjiang, Hebei) are accessible via high-speed trains or short domestic flights.

• Xinjiang’s resorts are best reached via Urumqi or Altay airports.

Ski Season Summary:

Region	Best Ski Months	Highlight
Jilin	Nov – Mar	Modern resorts + family-friendly options
Heilongjiang	Mid-Nov – Mar	Classic snow culture + Ice Festival
Xinjiang	Oct – Mar	Longest ski season + natural beauty
Hebei	Nov – Mar	Olympic-level facilities + near Beijing

Why Ski in China?

• World-class facilities and long seasons

• Diverse terrain — from forests to high-altitude peaks

• Luxury ski resorts and authentic local culture

• Easy access via China’s expanding high-speed rail

Whether you’re a beginner testing your first slope or a seasoned skier chasing new terrain, China’s ski resorts offer unforgettable winter adventures — without the crowds of Europe or Japan.

China’s ski scene is no longer a hidden gem — it’s a rising star. From the icy wonderlands of Heilongjiang to the high-altitude slopes of Xinjiang and the Olympic-grade resorts in Hebei, every region offers a unique winter story.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker carving down expert runs or a traveler looking for a cozy snow escape, China’s ski resorts promise more than just powder — they promise culture, warmth, and discovery.

So this winter, skip the usual destinations and take your ski trip somewhere unexpected. Because in China, every slope tells a story — and yours is just waiting to begin.