So, you’ve booked your trip to China in winter. Nǐ hǎo! You’re imagining misty mountains, dumplings warming your hands and a land transformed by ice and snow. Good call! Winter in China isn’t just about curling up with hot tea (though that’s highly recommended) — it’s a wonderland of festivals, frosty thrills and unforgettable sights. From ice palaces to spicy hotpot, here are ten winter activities to put on your “must‑do” list.
1. Marvel at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival
❄️ Think ice castles as tall as skyscrapers, luminous ice slides and enough ice sculptures to make your jaw drop (and then freeze).
💡 Tip: Dress like you’re going to the North Pole and stay until after sunset when the ice really shines.
2. Hit the Ski Slopes in Chongli
⛷️ The site of the 2022 Winter Olympics, Chongli is a ski and snowboard paradise. Even if you’ve never strapped on skis before, this is the place to try.
💡 Tip: Book early — the best slopes fill up quickly, especially around Chinese New Year.
3. Soak in a Hot Spring Near Beijing
♨️ After a crisp winter’s day exploring the Great Wall, there’s nothing better than sinking into a hot spring. Pure. Steamy. Heaven.
💡 Tip: Try Chunhuiyuan Hot Springs — only an hour from Beijing and worth every second.
4. Try Ice Skating on Beijing’s Lakes
⛸️ Hop onto a rickety ice bike or grab some skates and glide across a frozen lake. Houhai Lake in Beijing is the classic spot — a mix of old‑school charm and winter fun.
💡 Tip: Go on a weekday morning for a quieter experience.
5. Ride a Sleigh Through a Winter Forest
🛷 In places like Mohe or Heilongjiang, you can hop on a sleigh and swoosh through snowy forests. It’s like Narnia, but with dumplings.
💡 Tip: Wear thermal layers and don’t forget a thermos of hot tea.
6. Experience a Winter Temple Fair
🏮 From Beijing’s Ditan Park to smaller fairs across the country, temple fairs explode with festive energy — lion dances, dragon parades, sizzling street snacks and traditional handicrafts.
💡 Tip: Brush up on your bargaining skills and your appetite!
7. Hike the Great Wall Under a Veil of Snow
🏔️ The Great Wall becomes an ethereal wonder when dusted with snow. Fewer crowds, crisp air and jaw‑dropping photo opportunities await.
💡 Tip: Stick with well‑known sections like Mutianyu and wear grippy boots for icy steps.
8. Soak Up Winter Culture in Lijiang
🌄 Escape the big city and wander through the cobbled streets of Lijiang’s Old Town. Framed by snowy mountains, it’s like stepping into a fairytale.
💡 Tip: Stay in a traditional guesthouse and sip some hot ginger tea by the fire.
9. See Giant Pandas in the Snow
🐼 Those adorable pandas in Chengdu? Even cuter when tumbling around in the snow. Winter gives these furry giants a chance to show off their playful side.
💡 Tip: Book tickets online early, especially during the holidays.
10. Indulge in a Hotpot Feast
🍲 Winter in China wouldn’t be complete without gathering friends around a bubbling hotpot. The spicier, the better — especially in Chongqing or Sichuan.
💡 Tip: Not a fan of fiery flavours? Ask for a “yuanyang” pot (one side spicy, one side mild) and make everyone happy.
🌟 Final Winter Thought:
China doesn’t slow down in winter — it shines, sparkles and sizzles in its own special way. So grab your warmest coat, a camera and an appetite for adventure. From ice festivals and snowy hikes to hotpot and hot springs, the Middle Kingdom will keep your heart warm and your memories crisp. Stay open, stay curious and remember: in China, winter is a season worth chasing!
