Skiing in Beijing: The 3 Best Resorts for Beginners

The Beijing area boasts many high-quality ski resorts, allowing you to experience the joys of winter snow. In less than two hours by car, you could escape the hustle and bustle of the city and hit the snow-covered slopes, feeling the speed and freedom.

This article recommends three ski resorts that are most suitable for beginners and can be visited as a day trip from downtown Beijing.

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• 1. Nanshan - The Most Recommended
• 2. Huaibei - High Value
• 3. Yuyang - Suitable for Younger Children
• Best Time to Ski

1. Nanshan Ski Resort - The Most Recommended

If you're looking for the best overall skiing experience in Beijing, Nanshan Ski Resort should be your top choice—it's ranked as the number one ski resort in Beijing. Located in Miyun District, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from the city center.

Nanshan offers a wide variety of slopes, with 15 primary trails. The snowboard and ski trails are separate. If you're bringing children, there are dedicated children's and toddler slopes, providing a greater sense of safety.

Additionally, there are activities like a 1,318-meter dry toboggan run, snow tubing, and snow sledding, adding extra fun to snow play.

Snow sleeding

The facilities are comprehensive, the snow quality is excellent, and the area is spacious, offering a complete experience.

However, because of these features, the prices are higher than at other resorts, and it can be crowded (but the many slopes help disperse the crowds). If you're on a budget or want to avoid crowds, consider Huaibei or Yuyang instead.

2. Huaibei Ski Resort - High Value

While Huaibei isn't as large as Nanshan, it's more affordable than both Nanshan and Yu yang and less crowded than Nanshan, offering the best value for money. Located at the foot of Mutianyu (a 45-minute drive), it's the only ski resort in the world where you could see the Great Wall while skiing, providing an excellent backdrop for photos.

Huaibei is in Huairou District, about 1.5 hours drive from Beijing's city center.

There are two gentle primary slopes, ideal for beginners to practice with confidence. It also features Beijing's only high-speed gondola lift, which takes just three minutes to reach the intermediate and advanced slopes, so skiing is very efficient.

Huaibei Ski Resort

3. Yuyang Ski Resort - Suitable for Family with Younger Children

If you're a family with younger children, Yuyang is a great choice. While Nanshan and Huaibei also have children's areas and programs, Yuyang offers the most variety and fun. It is located in the Pinggu District, about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Beijing.

Yuyang caters to both adults and childrens. For adults, there are four primary slopes that are wide and long, allowing you to adapt gradually without feeling anxious.

For children who might not ski for long, there's a snow play park with over ten activities, including ice go-karts, giant wheels, and trampolines. If you get tired, you could relax in the free 400-square-meter lounge.

When is the Best Time to Ski in Beijing?

The ski resorts in Beijing are usually open from early December to the end of February, from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

The busiest periods are typically New Year's Day, Chinese New Year, and weekends. We recommend visiting on weekdays.

Mornings are best, as the temperature is lower and the snow quality is optimal. The peak hours are from 12 PM to 4 PM, so you could take this time to eat and rest. After 4 PM, it tends to be less crowded.

Enjoy Your Dream Ski Tour with Us

If you want to ski in Beijing, just let us know your interests and needs, and we will recommend the most suitable ski resort for you. We can tailor a hassle-free ski trip, including private transfers and lesson arrangements (if needed), ensuring you enjoy a high-quality ski experience.

If you prefer other ski destinations in China, such as Chongli or Yabuli, see our Top 12 China Ski Resorts for inspiration.