Winter sports destinations often draw crowds, but Beidahu Ski Resort in Jilin City has taken this to another level, having essentially revitalized its local lands thanks to a massive influx of business. As Asia’s largest single ski resort, Beidahu is a magnet for snow enthusiasts, but its impact extends far beyond the slopes, driving a profound economic transformation for the surrounding region and its residents.
This winter, the resort experienced a massive influx of tourists, with daily visitor numbers regularly exceeding 9,000. These aren’t just casual sightseers; they’re passionate skiers drawn by Beidahu’s legendary powder snow and state-of-the-art facilities. This steady stream of visitors has injected vital capital into the local economy, creating a ripple effect that touches every corner of the community.
Perhaps the most compelling story unfolds within the local workforce. Many ski instructors at Beidahu are licensed villagers from the surrounding areas. This isn’t merely anecdotal; the resort has actively fostered professional, targeted training platforms, collaborating with local universities. Over 2,000 students in Jilin City, equipped with professional skiing skills and service knowledge, find direct employment upon graduation in roles from coaching to hotel management. This symbiotic relationship ensures local talent directly benefits from the resort’s success.
Beyond direct employment, the “Beidahu effect” has spurred a boom in local entrepreneurship. Beidahu Town, where the resort is nestled, has witnessed the emergence of over a hundred characteristic B&Bs, frequently fully booked during peak season. Even neighboring towns like Kouqian and Shuanghe are capitalizing on this vibrant tourism, developing their own hospitality sectors. Furthermore, the region has diversified its offerings, extending into agri-tourism with picking experiences and local agricultural product sales, turning “cold resources” into a hotbed of economic activity. Beidahu Ski Resort shows how a single, ambitious project empowers an entire region, creating sustainable growth and opportunity.
Cover image via China National Tourist Office, Sydney.
