Harbin has etched its name in the annals of international sports by successfully hosting the ninth Asian Winter Games (AWG) from February 7 to 14, 2025. This event, Asia's largest and most comprehensive winter sports competition, saw participation from over 1,200 athletes representing 34 countries and regions, setting a new benchmark for engagement and enthusiasm in winter sports across the continent.
Marking its second stint as host, Harbin became the first city in the Chinese mainland to host the AWG twice, with its inaugural hosting in 1996. The 2025 Games served as a catalyst for Harbin's urban and economic development, particularly spotlighting the Yabuli Ski Resort, which experienced a 20% increase in visitors since January 2025.
The economic impact of the AWG was profound. During the 2025 Spring Festival, Harbin welcomed 12.15 million visitors, a 20.4% rise from the previous year. International visitor numbers soared by 144.7%, and tourism spending reached an impressive 19.15 billion yuan, transforming Harbin's winter attractions into a lucrative economic engine.
In preparation for the Games, Harbin significantly upgraded its transportation infrastructure. The expansion of Harbin Taiping International Airport introduced new international routes, targeting an annual passenger throughput of 38 million. Enhanced subway lines, an expanded highway network, and a state-of-the-art high-speed rail system have vastly improved urban mobility and connectivity with major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
Beyond sports, the AWG boosted Harbin's global reputation as a premier winter tourism destination. International media coverage, including features by Reuters, amplified the city's visibility worldwide. Harbin has also strengthened its international partnerships through sister-city relationships with winter-centric cities such as Asahikawa and Niigata in Japan, Minneapolis in the United States, and Edmonton in Canada.
Looking to the future, Harbin is capitalizing on the AWG legacy by expanding the Harbin Ice-Snow World, now encompassing one million square meters with 42 national and three regional landmark displays. Additionally, historic areas like Central Street have been renovated to better showcase Harbin's rich cultural heritage, ensuring the city remains a top destination for winter enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Reference(s):
Asian Winter Games provides a new chapter for Harbin's development
cgtn.com
