A childpractices skiingunder the guidance of professional coaches at Zhaojun International Ski Resort.

　　With the onset of winter, Xingshan’s Zhaojun International Ski Resort andThree Gorges Yunqi Valley International Ski Resort have seen a surge in visitor numbers, making snow viewing, skiing, and snow play popular seasonal activitiesamong ice and snowenthusiasts.

　　In recent years, Xingshan County has adopted various measures to turn its “cold resources” into “hot momentum.” The two ski resorts have collectively hosted over 330,000 tourist visits, generating total revenue of 93 million yuan and demonstrating the growing impact of the local ice-and-snow economy. Not long ago, Xingshan hosted the 12th National Public Ice and Snow Season and its inaugural “Hometown of Zhaojun” Public Ski Open, drawing winter sports enthusiasts from across the country. Centered on ice and snow attractions and integrating cultural, wellness and red tourism elements, the area has organized a winter festival that spans the entire skiing season. It has also introduced four premium tourist routes designed to satisfy visitors’ desire for “one day of skiing, multiple days of exploration,” effectively boosting winter cultural and tourism consumption. This year, facility upgrades have further enhanced the visitor experience. Zhaojun International Ski Resort has expanded to a total area of 240,000 square meters, adding new ski runs and a cable car. It can now receivenearly 6,000 visitors at a timeand is among the first in the province to introduce an intelligent helmet communication system and offer night skiingservices.

　　The thriving ice-and-snow industry has also created substantial local employment opportunities. In Zhenzi Township, the number of rural homestays and agritainment restaurants has grown to over 120, providing more than a thousand beds. Additionally, sales channels for alpine vegetables and smoked pork are flourishing.(Sanxia Daily: Reporter/Wan Chunfeng, Correspondents/Zou Yuanjing, Yang Xue and Song Ying)