The first Shanxi Ice and Snow Carnival and Ice and Snow Consumption Season (Jincheng Station) - China's Lingchuan-Austria Ice and Snow Cultural Carnival opened at the Qicai Taihang Yunshang Ski Resort in Lingchuan county, Jincheng, North China's Shanxi province, on Jan 5.

Following the opening ceremony, a series of high-level ice and snow events were held, including the Qicai Taihang Snowboard Park International Invitational and the 11th National Ice and Snow Season and the Mass Skiing Competition. Daniela Ulbing, a silver medalist at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing, and numerous star athletes from the national skiing team showcased their skills.

China's Lingchuan-Austria Ice and Snow Cultural Carnival kicks off on Jan 5. [Photo/Yellow River News]

Featuring the China-Austria Ice and Snow Cultural Carnival, Lingchuan county's tourism-themed 2025 Ice and Snow Season activities will run until Feb 28, spanning nearly two months. With over 10 simultaneous sub-events, the county aims for a comprehensive promotion, creating a powerful winter tourism feast.

Amid the activities, there will be distinctive folk parades from both China and Austria, captivating artistic performances from Vienna, the world's music capital, and authentic delicacies from the distant Alps. Meanwhile, Lingchuan county will launch county-wide cultural and tourism consumption activities, featuring themed lanterns, dragon dances, lion dances, and various folk experiences.

China's Lingchuan-Austria Ice and Snow Cultural Carnival kicks off on Jan 5. [Photo/Yellow River News]

This joint hosting of the ice and snow carnival with the Austrian state of Carinthia, the birthplace of modern skiing, demonstrates the county's active exploration of integrated development and pursuit of international cooperation. Both parties expressed intent to strengthen cooperation in cultural exchanges, sporting events, cultural tourism, and wellness.

During the opening ceremony, Lingchuan county also unveiled 10 popular winter tourist attractions and six themed tourist routes. Additionally, focusing on eating, accommodation, transportation, shopping, and entertainment, the county introduced nearly 100 boutique homestays, a variety of Lingchuan cuisine, and dozens of stores exhibiting Austrian products.

An athlete showcases skiing skills. [Photo/Yellow River News]