Ice, snow bring spectacular views to visitors across China

Sustained cold weather has transformed many parts of China into icy wonderlands during the New Year holiday, offering breathtaking winter scenery that continues to wow visitors.

On Friday, also the second day of China's three-day New Year Holiday, extensive icefalls and icicles were formed in the Tongtianxia Scenic Area of north China's Shanxi Province, attracting steams of visitors.

Located in the southern section of the Taihang Mountains, the scenic area has seen once-flowing waterfalls freeze into ice cascades stretching for several kilometers. Aerial views reveal crystal-clear icicles clinging to steep cliffs, creating a striking winter landscape.

Streams continue to flow through the valley in the scenic area, with emerald-green water contrasting with layers of ice icicles, adding vitality to the winter scenery.

Meanwhile, Tianzhu Mountain scenic area in east China's Anhui Province welcomed its first snowfall of 2026 on Thursday, the first day of the New Year.

Blanketed in heavy snow, the mountain appeared like a fairyland. Towering pine trees stood firm, while rugged rock took on a variety of striking shapes. Visitors moved among the snow-covered peaks, capturing memorable moments on camera.

To enhance the holiday experience, the scenic area administration introduced themed consumption activities and promotional offers, allowing visitors to enjoy sightseeing, shopping, accommodation and local cuisine while immersing themselves in the festive New Year atmosphere.

Ice, snow bring spectacular views to visitors across China

Giant pandas at the Chongqing Zoo in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality became the star attraction during the New Year holiday, delighting crowds with their adorable antics in specially arranged winter play scenarios.

To involve the giant pandas in the New Year celebrations, the zoo built snowy enclosures surrounded by snow blocks and prepared a fruit feast for them.

After eating their fill, a giant panda climbed into a small wooden car and sat leisurely in the driver's seat, a scene that sparked laughter and prompted visitors to eagerly take pictures.

"Coming to see the pandas was the main reason we visited Chongqing. They're so fluffy, plump, and chubby -- it made me super happy," said a visitor.

On New Year's Day, the first day of the three-day holiday, the Chongqing Zoo has welcomed 28,500 visitors. To enhance the holiday experience, the zoo also organized a series of New Year-themed activities from January 1 to 3, including educational talks about animals, knowledge quizzes, sachet-making workshops, and fun interactive games.

Giant pandas draw crowds in Chongqing during New Year holiday