Xu believes that China holds huge promise in achieving a north-south synergy in the ice-and-snow economy. By strengthening linkages - where beginners start on southern indoor slopes before honing their skills on northern mountains - regions can pool resources and create year-round appeal.

　　“By offering discounted tickets and bundled experiences, consumers can make their getaways more diverse, enriching travel experiences throughout the year,“ Xu said.

　　“Winter sports provide a prime opportunity for the ice-and-snow economy to transition from passive sightseeing to immersive, social, experience-based consumption,“ said Wang Yuxiong, a sports economics researcher at the Central University of Finance and Economics. “They can reshape business models, enhance added value and foster sustainable development.“

　　Major sports events, both domestic and international, are proving their worth. China's 14th National Winter Games, held earlier this year in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is estimated to have generated about 32 billion yuan in sports-related spending during the competition period.

　　Su Yiming of Shanxi competes during men's snowboard big air final at the 14th National Winter Games in Hulun Buir, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Feb. 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Long Lei)

　　Moreover, China's winter sports equipment industry is snowballing, driven by advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Think smart ski insoles that track performance and analyze data, heated snow boots that stay warm for five hours, and VR simulators that bring alpine thrills directly into one's living room.