In the remote mountains of northeast China’s Heilongjiang province, Beiji Village—once synonymous with bone-chilling isolation—is now drawing crowds eager to experience its record-breaking winters. With temperatures plunging to -52°C (-61°F), locals have pivoted from surviving the cold to monetizing it, transforming frost into a form of currency.
Known as the nation’s 'North Pole,' the village saw over 120,000 visitors in 2023, a 340% surge from pre-pandemic levels. Entrepreneurs have launched ice hotels, frost-resistant gear rentals, and social media-friendly 'freeze challenges,' while homestays run by residents now charge premium rates for authentic subzero experiences. Tourism revenue topped $18 million last year, revitalizing what was once a dwindling community.
'We used to curse the cold every winter,' said local guide Zhang Wei, 34. 'Now, it’s our golden season.' Travel platforms report a 200% spike in bookings from digital nomads and adventure tourists across G20 nations, drawn by promises of aurora-like 'ice halo' phenomena and sustainable ecotourism initiatives.
Analysts say Beiji’s success reflects China’s growing domestic tourism innovation, blending extreme environments with cultural storytelling. As climate extremes intensify globally, this frostbitten haven offers lessons in turning ecological challenges into economic opportunities.
Reference(s):
China's coldest village becomes country's hottest tourist hub
cgtn.com
