Taking to the slopes

In recent years, China has witnessed an increase in the number of ski resorts, drawing more people to take up the winter sport. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Meanwhile, the skiing industry in Zhangjiakou's Chongli district has been booming in recent years, attracting increasing numbers of tourists with its ski resorts, fresh air and convenient transportation links. More and more Beijingers are buying houses there.

Most of the skiing and snowboarding events scheduled for the 2022 Winter Olympics will be staged in Chongli, a poor area in the past.

Official data shows that during this year's Spring Festival, more than 259,000 tourists－or twice the population of the district－visited Chongli.

With the completion of a highway and high-speed rail link between Beijing and Chongli in 2019, it will take about just over one hour by car or by train for those who travel between the two cities.

"I like Chongli very much because I can enjoy skiing in winter and cool down on holiday in the summer," says Guo Dandan, 37, China's first freestyle skiing world champion.

"It's important to build Chongli as an all-season destination. For example, in summer, they can hold events such as concerts, or go cycling and camping. Also, ski resorts should offer decent services, such as delicious food and good accommodation," she says.