Hami City, renowned for its sweet melons and number of sunshine days in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, launched a series of winter sports activities on Saturday.
The opening ceremony took place at the Songshutang Ski Resort within the Dongtianshan Scenic Area, marking the beginning of this winter tourism season.
Located in the Kazak Autonomous County of Barkol, the Songshutang Ski Resort is the largest alpine ski resort in eastern Xinjiang. With a total ski trail area of 150,000 square meters, it has runs for beginners, intermediate skiers, and advanced visitors.
"The facilities at the ski resort are very well built, covering everything. There are many visitors. I enjoy my time here very much," said Zhang Lu, a Hami resident.
This year, four Gentoo penguins were invited to the resort, becoming instant stars among visitors.
"I take my son here to see the penguins. He's really excited," said Wang Jiawei, a tourist.
"This year, we brought in penguins mainly to break up the traditional mindset that one can just ski at this resort and boost visitors' interaction with us," said Wang Yulan, an office worker at the Hami Culture and Tourism Group.
Xinjiang city starts series of ice, snow activities
