Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region is witnessing a remarkable recovery in tourism in 2022, thanks in large part to the increasing popularity of ice-and-snow tourism. The region received a total of 22.3 million visits in the first two months of the year, a significant increase of 10.8 percent year-on-year, while its tourism revenue grew by 11.6 percent to 16.3 billion yuan ($2.4 billion), according to the regional culture and tourism department.
Located in the golden latitudes of ice and snow, Xinjiang is home to 84 ski resorts and has become a preferred destination for winter sports fans. The region’s stunning natural landscapes, combined with its excellent infrastructure and outstanding service, has made it a leading destination for travelers who are interested in winter sports.
To further develop ice-and-snow tourism in the region, the local authorities have implemented several measures in recent years, including improving the quality of ski pistes and upgrading service facilities. As a result, ski resorts with the top “5S” grading in Xinjiang received 121,800 trips during this year’s Spring Festival holiday in late January, an increase of 4.94 percent over last year. The resorts also raked in around 19.96 million yuan, up 80.16 percent year-on-year.
Xinjiang’s increasing popularity as a destination for ice-and-snow tourism is not just limited to domestic tourists. The region has also been attracting a growing number of international visitors, particularly from neighboring countries in Central Asia. With the rising demand for winter sports activities, the region’s tourism industry is poised to continue its impressive growth in the years ahead.
To ensure that the region’s tourism industry continues to flourish, the local government is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. As part of this effort, the authorities have established a series of measures to protect the region’s natural environment and cultural heritage, while also promoting responsible tourism practices among visitors.
Overall, Xinjiang’s ice-and-snow tourism is a shining example of how a well-developed tourism industry can drive economic growth and improve the lives of local communities. With its stunning natural landscapes and world-class infrastructure, the region is well-positioned to attract even more tourists in the years ahead, helping to further boost economic development and create more job opportunities in the area.