Preface
In China, stories about ice and snow have always been a part of the culture.
The rock paintings hidden in the Altay region in Xinjiang take us back tens of thousands of years to the Upper Paleolithic period when the first skiers in human history appeared. Ancient people flitted by riding on fur-covered skis with wooden poles in hand and their prey tied behind them.
For most people, ice and snow are sources of entertainment, while writers and poets have deeper sentiments toward these two elements. “I have come to think amidst the falling rain and snow” is a line that comes from renowned poetry, Cai Wei, where snow is associated with the emotion of returning from an expedition. In Qinyuanchun: Snow, the poet expressed great ambition with the words: “Northern scenery, thousands of miles of ice and floating snow.”
After traveling through history, we can still see people’s enthusiasm for ice and snow in present-day China. Here, driven by integration and innovation; tourism, arts, sports, and other entertainment related to ice and snow flourish across various industries.
We invite you to explore our exhibition to discover the beauty of ice and snow in the north of China!
Chapter 1
Ice and Snow Fairyland
Nowadays, from forests to valleys, from cities to rural areas, unique ice and snow activities are still seen in China.
The steamy Unfrozen River flows swiftly in winter and silent volcanoes relive their scalding past. Reindeer live with old tribes deep in the snowy forests while life of the close in the wild strives to survive in extreme coldness.
Ice and snow penetrate the heart, arousing people’s playfulness. With ever-changing shapes, a colorful paradise emerges.
Ice and snow tourism opens a window for China to show its charm. Snow and ice also provide people with an easy way to acquaint themselves with Chinese culture. China is prepared to offer the best of its festive winter scenery!
Chapter 2
Ice and Fire Arena
A life without ice and snow is tantamount to competitive sports losing a part of their passion and thrill.
In the ski resorts, brave skiers race the wind at full speed. Winter swimming enthusiasts who are “lightly dressed” are not afraid of close contact with freezing ice water. Competing in the snow offers a unique sense of fun — for example, horses pulling sleds, Kyz kuu (“girl chasing”), and horse racing. People racing each other in the snow at full tilt is also a compelling spectacle.
The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics drew in more than 300 million Chinese people to snow and ice activities, making a historic contribution to the development of the World Olympics. China now has 654 standard ice rinks, with a combination of 803 indoor and outdoor ski resorts to fulfill every winter sports lover’s dream.
Ice and snow are undeniably the “hottest” friends for people in winter. They light up winters all around the world!
Chapter 3 Warm Chinese New Year
When the Spring Festival draws near, billions of people migrate from all over the country to their hometowns, where their loved ones await them eagerly. The warmth of reuniting with family has become an aesthetic symbol for snow and ice in China.
Snow houses are built to treasure colorful and inspiring stories. A net of fish is caught in winter and the joy and peace of the New Year is reaped. Some people sample tea and soup, while others prefer enjoying the vibrant New Year rituals in temperatures of minus 40.
People engage in fun folk activities, watch lanterns, and solve lantern riddles. White snow falls on the gray tiles. Under warm rooves, family reunions and feasts commence. The Chinese Lunar New Year festivities can be seen and felt all over cities and villages.
