Best 15 Ski Resorts in China: covering every needs (2025-2026 Season)
Planning a trip to China and wondering where to ski? You’re in for a treat.
China’s ski industry has exploded since hosting the 2022 Winter Olympics, with world-class resorts now rivaling those in Japan and Europe—at half the price. This guide covers the 15 best ski resorts across China, from beginner-friendly slopes near Beijing to powder havens in the Northeast.
Whether you’re bringing kids for their first time or seeking challenging terrain, I’ll help you choose the right resort.
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Why Ski in China is amazing ?
🇨🇳 China is seriously the ski secret NO ONE’S talking about… but all my Chinese ski buddies swear by it!
One thing I really love is how friendly and lively the atmosphere is. Chinese ski resorts aren’t just about skiing — they’re like **winter playgrounds**. You can go tubing, enjoy hotpot after skiing, or hang out in cozy cafés with a mountain view. The food is amazing too — imagine finishing a ski session and eating spicy hotpot or barbecue in the snow!
- 🏔️ World-Class Infrastructure: Post-Olympics facilities rival top European resorts
- 💸 Super affordable: Lift pass? $40–70/day. Private ski lesson with English-speaking coach? Around $50-60/hour—half the price of Japan or Europe!
- 🍜 Food hack: Tired after skiing? Just order hotpot, bubble tea🤤, or barbecue via Meituan (Chinese Uber Eats) straight to your hotel room—yes, even up in the mountains!
- 🚇 Easy to reach: Hop on a high-speed train in Beijing, nap for 2.5 hours, and soon—you’re in Chongli with your skis.
- ⛷️ Great snow: Northeast China gets that 50% same dreamy Siberian powder as Hokkaido—especially in December & March, when slopes are quiet (60% fewer crowds!) but snow’s still solid.
- 🎿 More than just skiing: Try snow tubing, ice festivals, or even night skiing under fairy lights. Many resorts have family zones, gear rentals, and English-friendly staff at big places like Genting ski resort.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly： Dedicated kids’ areas, English-speaking instructors at major resorts
Overall, skiing in China isn’t just about the sport — it’s about the whole experience: great snow, warm people, delicious food, beautiful scenery.
Once you’ve tried it, you’ll totally get why people say skiing in China is pure happiness. →
🚡 Best Ski Resorts by Region
Ski Resorts in Northeast China
The most famous ones are around Changchun and Harbin. They’re all in the Northeast, but the vibes and activities are actually quite different.
🏔️ Yabuli Ski Resort (Harbin)
Around 30 km of slopes covering all difficulty levels, but overall on the more challenging side. Temperatures here are very low, so some runs can get icy. It’s more suitable for experienced skiers who want to try different levels of runs, or super fans who love “collecting” different ski resorts. Getting there is a bit more complicated: you first reach Harbin, then take a 1.5-hour high-speed train to the resort.
🏆 Beidahu Ski Resort (Jilin)
In peak season, you’ll find high-quality powder (said to rival Hokkaido) and it’s known as one of the most beautiful ski resorts in China. There’s stunning rime ice at the summit – unbelievably pretty – but it’s really more suitable for advanced skiers; beginners should avoid the top area.
There are lots of local experts who are happy to chat and share tips, making it ideal for progressing your skills. Hotel prices are on the higher side, but there’s plenty of classic Northeast food, which is generally very affordable. There’s also a Club MED here.
🎿 Songhua Lake Ski Resort (Jilin)
Songhua Lake Ski Resort is a mature, fully integrated Vanke resort with a total of 30 km of runs. There are advanced slopes too, but it’s especially suitable for beginners. The overall facilities are very family-friendly, perfect for a ski-resort holiday. Hotels are a little more expensive, but you can choose anything from Airbnb to high-end hotels, and even book massages. For family members who don’t want to ski, there are also plenty of other options.
There’s also a Manner coffee shop at the summit, making it a very relaxed, enjoyable ski experience.
❄️ Luneng Ski Resort (Changbaishan)
Absolutely beginner-friendly, with no advanced slopes at all, the ski area is really small. For many people who want to start learning how to ski, this is their first stop.
There’s also a newly opened Club Med, so the facilities are very new, with more than ten indoor and outdoor hot-spring pools, plus a water-play area for kids. It’s ideal for families and beginners. Since it’s only a 30-minute drive from Changbai Mountain Airport, it’s perfect for a 3-day “try-out” trip. It’s also one of the few ski resorts that open in summer, so you can come to escape the heat, go hiking, and try other outdoor activities. The opening period is one of the longest.
🎿 Wanda Ski Resort (Changbaishan)
Many slopes are steep at the top and gentle at the bottom, so the design isn’t the most reasonable, and the experience late in the season isn’t great. On the other hand, the overall facilities are very complete, with many 4–5-star hotel options. In the evening, you can head to the commercial street, where there’s every kind of food.
It’s also about a 30-minute drive from Changbai Mountain Airport and close to Changbai Mountain’s Tianchi (Heaven Lake). If you like a lively atmosphere, want an all-in-one experience, and enjoy rich nightlife, this is a good choice. The instructors are relatively professional with plenty of options, but it does get very crowded in peak season.
Beijing & Hebei — The heart of China Skiing
The most accessible region from Beijing city. Perfect for weekend trips and families. This is ideal for 2–3-day short trips that you can combine with sightseeing around Beijing.
Wanlong Ski Resort
2022 Olympic venue — long runs + epic night skiing. Perfect amentities — slide right out of your hotel room. Best for dedicated skiers
Combine with: Beijing 1day tour
Full Wanlong guide
Taiwoo Ski Resort
The slopes are long and wide, but the overall variety is a bit weaker. It’s suitable for progressing riders who want to work on their skills, with medium-to-high difficulty. Some say it’s very windy!
Combine with: Beijing 1 day tour
Places to stay in Chongli ski resorts
Fulong Ski Resort
moderate in scale, with lots of “fun terrain” (such as wave runs) Convenient for city skiing, and overall very budget-friendly. Great for beginners, families, and flat-ground snowboard players.
Combine with: Beijing 1 day tour
Places to stay in Chongli ski resorts
Genting Ski Resort
Some slopes are very steep and highly challenging, making it suitable for intermediate-plus skiers and carving experts. While dining choices are limited, this resort is ideal for those who want to focus entirely on the professional race-course experience & can overlook other extras
Choosing the right ski resort isn’t just about snow.
Budget, crowd level, and resort vibe matter too❗️I built an interactive Asia ski resort map, so you can filter resorts by region, price range,
and whether they’re beginner-friendly or powder-focused.
Ski Resorts in Xinjiang
These are the places your heart will gravitate toward if you love raw, untouched nature and extreme challenges. It’s a dreamland for powder hunters – the only catch is the less-convenient transport.
🗻 Silk Road Ski Resort (Urumqi)
Located near Ürümqi, Silk Road has a total of 14.3 km of slopes with internationally certified runs and a huge skiable area. Aivin Avenue and Xuanzang Avenue are very steep, with great views from the top, and access is convenient. The resort also has beginner and intermediate runs, so first-timers and families can give it a go, but the main playground is still for advanced skiers. Even if you don’t ski, taking the gondola for sightseeing is an excellent experience.
🌅 Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort (Altay)
This is a high-mountain ski resort in Altay City, very suitable for practice. It’s known for its beautiful sunsets. Transport is convenient, facilities are complete, and it’s great as a “transition” stop while you level up. There’s night skiing, rental equipment is good, and you can also try snowmobiles, snow parties, and other snow activities. The ski service center offers professional travel-photo services. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned expert, you’ll find suitable runs here.
🎿 Koktokay Ski Resort (Altay)
Total ski runs with a black-diamond slope at a 71.28% gradient. It’s famous for a snow season lasting up to 240 days, making it perfect for ultra-advanced players.
The scenery is amazing: the Little Wolf King forest is a must-visit, there are drainage channels, and you might even encounter small foxes. Koktokay itself is known for its gemstone deposits and geological wonders, so while you’re skiing, you’re also surrounded by unique nature.
🎿 Jikepulin Ski Resort (Altay)
More than 40 km of runs of all types, with the longest single run stretching 11 km. There are 103 trails in total, including 28 off-piste routes. The skiable area is huge – a true powder paradise and off-piste heaven, one of the very best in China.
After skiing, you can visit Hemu Village nearby for a taste of local life. It’s recommended to stay in Hemu so you can enjoy both the skiing and the scenery.
♥️ Choosing Your Perfect Ski Resort – By Traveler Type
Best for families ✅
Songhua Lake Ski Resort (Jilin) A mature Vanke-developed resort with complete facilities and a very family-friendly setup. Even family members who don’t ski will have plenty of activities to choose from. There’s everything from Airbnb to luxury hotels, and a Manner coffee shop at the summit so the whole family can enjoy a comfortable holiday experience.
Best for beginners ✅
Changbai Mountain Runeng Ski Resort An absolute paradise for complete beginners, with no advanced runs – only magic carpets and beginner slopes. It’s quiet with beautiful scenery and just a 30-minute drive from Changbai Mountain Airport, perfect for a 3-day intro trip. The newly opened Club Med has brand-new facilities that make learning to ski feel relaxed and stress-free.
Best if you already have basics and want to level up 👏
Beidahu Ski Resort (Jilin) With more than 37 km of runs and peak-season powder that rivals Hokkaido, this is the place to go if you’re ready to progress. There are many local experts who are friendly and open to chatting, and the professional slopes are perfect if you want to stay longer and practice. The rime-ice scenery at the summit plus Northeast specialty food make the whole progression journey full of surprises and a sense of achievement.
Best for advanced players ✅
Jikepulin Ski Resort (Altay, Xinjiang) One of China’s top-tier powder paradises, with an 11 km longest single run and 103 trails, including 28 off-piste routes. The skiable area is incredibly vast, and off-piste skiing here is phenomenal. It’s recommended to stay in Hemu Village so you can enjoy both the slopes and the views – this is a final-stage challenge for true experts.
Most budget-friendly 💵
Zhegu Mountain Ski Resort (Sichuan) The ski season lasts up to 5 months, with more than 10 entertainment options, and Northeast-style dishes are generally very affordable. You can stay in unique mountain cabins or in the nearby town. Transport and accommodation costs are relatively low, making it ideal for travelers on a budget who still want to fully enjoy the fun of skiing.
Most convenient ✅
Fulong Ski Resort (Chongli, Hebei) The only “city ski” resort here with night skiing. You can walk to the Holiday Inn and lots of local eateries. Overall, the facilities are very friendly and accessible, with a well-designed children’s area. You don’t need a long journey to enjoy skiing, which makes it especially suitable for 2–3-day short trips from Beijing.
Best snow quality ❄️
Beidahu Ski Resort (Jilin) The powder here in peak season is said to rival Hokkaido and it’s praised as one of the most beautiful ski resorts in China. The rime-ice spectacle at the summit combined with excellent snow conditions makes every run a treat for both your eyes and your senses. It’s the first choice for skiers who are obsessed with top-tier snow quality.
Hot springs + skiing combo ❄️
Changbai Mountain Runeng Ski Resort The newly opened Club Med has more than ten indoor and outdoor hot-spring pools and a water-play area for kids. After a day on the slopes, you can relax in the hot springs to ease fatigue. Only 30 minutes from Changbai Mountain Airport, it’s easy to fit both hot springs and skiing into a 3-day itinerary.
For scenery lovers 🌄
Koktokay Ski Resort (Xinjiang) The Little Wolf King forest is a must-visit, and you might even spot little foxes. The area is famous for its gemstone mines and geological wonders. With a snow season lasting up to 240 days and one of the earliest opening dates in the country, you can ski while soaking in unique history and natural landscapes. It’s the ultimate choice for travelers who put scenery first.
Solo traveller ⛷️
Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort (Altay, Xinjiang) Located within Altay City with convenient transport, and more than 70 ski runs covering all levels. There’s night skiing so you can plan your time flexibly. Rental equipment is good quality, and you can also try snowmobiles and other snow activities. There are many hotels in the city center, so solo travelers can easily arrange their own trip. It’s a great option for ski lovers planning a Xinjiang journey.
Business traveller 🌄
Wanlong Ski Resort (Chongli, Hebei) You can take a direct high-speed train from Beijing to Chongli and make it a simple weekend escape. With 39 km of Olympic-level slopes and night skiing, plus a summit restaurant often called the most beautiful, it’s very appealing. There are 8 restaurants inside the resort and convenient ski-in/ski-out hotels. For business travellers with precious limited time, this place offers a very professional ski experience.
Luxurious getaway 🌄
Changbai Mountain Wanda Ski Resort With 43 runs and plenty of 4–5-star hotel options, plus a lively commercial street for nightlife, you’ll find all kinds of cuisine and lots of professional instructors and activities. The one-stop facilities are fully complete. It’s just 30 minutes from Changbai Mountain Airport and close to Tianchi, making it a top choice if you want both luxury and convenience.
ℹ️Quick Reference: Practical Ski Travel Info
Best Time to Visit (Snow Season & Temperature Range)
Budget Overview
Note: Total estimates include lift tickets, lodging, and meals, but exclude transport and gear rental.
Transportation Guide
Note: More ⭐ means more convenient access.
Trip Ideas (3-7 days Itinerary)
China’s ski resorts are spread far and wide, so it’s best to pick your destination based on your holiday length and travel style. Here are three classic itinerary ideas:
Weekend Quick Ski (2–3 Days) | Business Travelers / Weekend Warriors / Beginners
- Day 1: Take the Friday evening high-speed train from Beijing to Chongli (2.5 hrs), check in at a resort hotel.
- Day 2: Full-day skiing — beginners go to Fulong (kids’ and beginner zones); intermediates try Wanlong or Taiwoo. Lunch at the resort restaurant. In the evening, experience Fulong’s night skiing.
- Day 3: Half-day skiing, check out at noon, and return to Beijing in the afternoon. Best for Wanlong, Taiwu, or Fulong. Genting is not recommended (too advanced).
Mini Holiday (4–5 Days) | Family Vacation
- Day 1: Fly to Changchun or Changbai Mountain Airport, check in at the resort.
- Day 2–3: Full days of skiing and resort fun — kids join ski school, adults free ski or relax; soak in hot springs (Runeng) or explore the commercial street (Wanda) in the evening.
- Day 4: Morning ski, afternoon sightseeing nearby (Tianchi Lake or Harbin Ice Festival).
- Day 5: Return trip. Recommended resorts: Songhua Lake (best facilities), Runeng (hot springs + family-friendly), or Wanda (all-in-one). Club Med packages include ski lessons and kids’ clubs, making it super convenient.
Full Vacation (7+ Days) | Culture + Ski Combo
Xinjiang Route:
- Day 1–2: Fly from Urumqi to Altay, stay in Hemu Village.
Day 3–5: Ski at Jikepulin — enjoy powder and off-piste runs; stargazing at night in Hemu.
Day 6: Move to Jiangjun Mountain for night skiing and snow entertainment.
Day 7: Explore Altay city, experience Kazakh culture, enjoy lamb soup and baursak with milk tea before heading homeDay 1: Fly to Changchun or Changbai Mountain Airport, check in at the resort.
Sichuan Route:
- Day 1: Foodie day in Chengdu.
- Day 2–3: Drive to Taiziling or Zhegu (3–4 hrs mountain road).
- Day 4–5: Skiing + snow play in the “sunshine ski resort.”
- Day 6–7: Return to Chengdu, visit Panda Base or nearby ancient towns.
⏱️ Timing Tips: December to February is peak season with the best snow but larger crowds and higher prices — book early. Late November and March offer the best value, fewer people, and great snow.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Before your trip:
- Test Alipay/WeChat ‼️ linking and preload a small amount. Check our How to Master Digital Payments in China Tutorial
- Inform your card provider you’ll be using it in China.
- Download Didi (for rides) and Deepseek (for instant translations — it works better than Google Translate locally).
- Download VPN in advance.
- You can prebook rental gear and ski lessons via the resort’s official website or Trip.com — easy and secure.
- For essentials like balaclavas or gloves, buy in advance via Amazon. If you’re already in China, use Meituan, JD, or Taobao for same-day delivery in cities. Resorts rarely receive direct deliveries, but if you send items to your hotel 2 days before arrival, the front desk can usually hold them for you (not guaranteed safe).
Last Updated: Jan 2026 | Season: 2025-2026
This comprehensive guide is regularly updated to reflect current conditions, pricing, and resort developments. Bookmark this page and check back for the latest China ski resort information.
📖 Related Guides
China is a great starting point, but it’s only one part of Asia’s ski scene. If you’re planning a longer ski trip, check out my Best Ski Resorts in Asia guide for a bigger picture.
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