(Ecns.cn)--Now that the holidays are just around the corner, it's high time for a trip to a top Chinese ski resort. Many of them are still relatively unheard of by foreign tourists, so slopes can be sampled for lower prices. Ski gear can also be rented on site. Here's an introduction to a few of them.
1) Yabuli, Heilongjiang
Situated in the northeast frontier province of Heilongjiang, the coldest region in the country, Yabuli is reportedly the largest and most renowned in the industry. It also has a long season, stretching from December 1 to April 1.
The mountain many thrill-seekers go for is 1,375 meters high and blanketed with up to 300 inches of snow.
Yabuli has varied terrain for skiers at every level, including 11 primary, intermediate and advanced ski runs. The 500-meter-long beginner trails are creatively designed with technical aids, enabling first-time skiers to make their first attempts, while also allowing beginners to improve their skills.
Price: About US$55 per day for each person
Tel: 0451-53458888
How to get there: From Beijing to Harbin by air (1.5 hours), train to Yabuli (2.5 hours), bus to resort (30 min.)
2) Beijing Nanshan International Ski Slope & Resort
This was the first ski resort to introduce snowboarding to China and the first to ever have a snow football field, which explains its increasing popularity among ski lovers.
As expected, Nanshan has enjoyable trails for every level. Steep, bumpy, fast or slow, anything you want to experience, you can find it at Nanshan. Hardcore skiers will enjoy its 600-meter long Mogul Expert Trail, beginners will have a great time in the learning terrain, and kids will love the snowmobiles.
Ski season in Nanshan begins in mid December and ends in mid March.
Price: About US$50 per day for each person
Tel: 010-89091909
How to get there: About 1.5 hours by car from Beijing
