Strategy expects tourism sector surge

Since late 2013, the Harbin Ice-Snow World has generated approximately 3 billion yuan ($429 million) in revenue. The ice and snow construction phase provides seasonal work for tens of thousands, with nearby rural homestays often operating at full capacity, Cong observes.

The past peak season (Nov 2023-Feb 2024) marked a breakthrough for Harbin's tourism sector, with the city emerging as a top national destination for winter travel, notes Zhu Zhanchun, deputy director of the city's bureau of culture, radio, television, and tourism.

The city received 87.4 million visitors, generating total tourism revenue of 124.9 billion yuan, both of which set historical records, Zhu says.

He attributed this growth to the support from vibrant cultural and creative industries, which launched innovative products such as AR-enabled seasonal souvenir magnets and popular mascots.

Local equipment manufacturers also contributed by supplying high-quality ice and snow equipment, spicing up visitors' winter experiences.

In late November, Heilongjiang outlined a clear strategy in its 15th five-year plan to advance the ice and snow economy.

The plan calls for the integrated development of winter sports, culture, equipment, and tourism, with key initiatives, including accelerating construction of the China-Shanghai Cooperation Organization ice and snow sports demonstration zone in Harbin, establishing a national ice and snow sports college, and developing an elite winter sports training center for Asia.

Additional efforts will focus on building professional venues, cultivating talent, expanding public participation in winter sports, and hosting high-level competitions.

The province also aims to enrich its offerings of ice and snow cultural and creative products and develop high-end winter gear. Landmark destinations, such as the Harbin Ice-Snow World and Yabuli Ski Resort, will be further elevated, establishing the region as an international platform for ice and snow exchange and a globally influential leader in the winter economy, according to the plan.