Australian travelers gear up for Chinese winter destinations

Like many Australians, David Johnson plans at least half a year ahead for his vacation, so checking out the latest offerings at a snow travel expo on Sunday in Sydney was a top priority for the civil engineer.

"I regularly go snowboarding with friends at the end of the year, and some of the destinations in China look interesting," said Johnson, 36.

The booths, introducing Chinese winter sports and resorts in Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces and the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, were part of more than 70 exhibitors from across the world drawing crowds to the expo.

Many visitors like Johnson said the extension of China's visa-free policy last year for Australian passport holders from 15 days to 30 days, and its hosting of major sporting events like the 2022 Winter Olympics made its ski resorts an attractive option.

Liu Dong, director of the China National Tourist Office in Sydney, gave the welcome address at the expo and said it provided "an excellent platform not only for snow lovers to plan for their next winter escape but also for our exhibitors to learn from each other and to share ideas."

Winter travel in China also offers opportunities to experience the rich culture and heritage of the country beyond winter sports, Liu said.

"China is going to be the big powerhouse in winter tourism, in my opinion," said expo director and producer Phil Osborn.

"It's just starting and it's moving fast," he said. "It's a great destination to explore, for Australians to go and see China and ski, and just embrace the wonderful culture."

Ian Lu, director of Summitski Tour travel agency, introduced expo visitors to winter resorts in Jilin province including the Beidahu and Changbai Mountain areas.

"Jilin offers international ski resorts and they're conveniently reached from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai," said Lu, adding that the province is a suitable transit point and winter sports enthusiasts can include major cultural attractions like the Great Wall near the Chinese capital in their itinerary.

Contact the writers at alexishooi@chinadaily.com.cn