Eight thousand people in Taiwan suffer from "skiing addiction" – a compulsive urge that only appears in winter?

▲ Tomamu Resort in Hokkaido.

Reported by You T-Ru / Special Feature

Are there eight thousand people in Taiwan suffering from "skiing addiction," with symptoms that flare up every winter and cannot be cured? A 25-year-old Taiwanese man working at a well-known resort in Hokkaido said that as soon as the ski season begins, he picks up his skiing gear every afternoon and heads to the slopes, not stopping until completely exhausted. According to staff at the resort, typical sufferers of "skiing addiction" imagine the magical thrill of speeding down the snowy slopes the moment they see snow, and no amount of persuasion can stop them.


▲ Typical sufferers of "skiing addiction" imagine the magical thrill of speeding down the snowy slopes the moment they see snow.

This winter (2013), due to the increasing number of people suffering from "skiing addiction," ski trips have become the hottest winter travel product on the market. Tang Guizhen, CEO of Rolisa Tour International Travel Agency, said that just in Taiwan, the number of skiers has grown by as much as 20% over the past year, rising from 5,000 to 8,000. Tang also estimated that Taiwan’s potential skiing population is about 80,000, and the return rate of “skiing addicts” – those who have tried skiing and can’t stop going back – is about 54%.

“Many travelers start booking their trips half a year in advance. During winter, ski trips become a major priority when planning vacations,” Tang pointed out. The Taipei International Travel Fair held from October 18 to 21 featured ski trips as a key highlight for the winter season. Due to Taiwan's subtropical climate, locals rarely see snow, but in recent years, with the promotion of ski-themed travel packages, more and more people are willing to take the first step and experience the thrilling rush of speeding down the slopes on skis, as if flying. “That sense of speed is what snow lovers are most drawn to.”


▲ That sense of speed is what snow lovers are most drawn to.

People suffering from "skiing addiction" share several common traits. First, they are mostly young and especially enjoy novelty and thrills. Second, they often have high work-related stress, as skiing requires intense concentration, and the act of speeding downhill helps relieve pressure. The development of skiing addiction usually starts with an appreciation for snow, then progresses to playing in the snow, skiing, and eventually, every winter when the cold wind bites the skin and sends shivers down the spine, the uncontrollable craving for snow resurfaces. This condition cannot be cured, but can only be soothed year after year through contact with snow.

In recent years, due to the popularity of idol dramas, the most beloved ski destination among Taiwanese is Hokkaido, Japan, known for its “stunning snowy landscapes.” “The snow in Hokkaido is powder snow, as fine as ash, so even if you fall, it doesn’t hurt,” said Tang Guizhen. Unlike the wet, hard snow found in northeastern China or South Korea, Hokkaido’s soft snow caters to a wide range of age groups – even three-year-olds can enjoy it easily. “As long as your feet fit into ski boots, you can safely try skiing.”


▲ The snow in Hokkaido is different from elsewhere – the powder snow feel means even falls won’t hurt.
Regarding precautions for skiing, Tang emphasized that warming up is the most basic preparation before any sport. In addition, beginners typically choose skiing as their “entry-level” activity. When skiing, it’s essential to wear warm inner layers and practice balance through repeated falls to avoid injuries from losing control. Most importantly, whether you’re a beginner or an independent traveler trying skiing, besides the package tours offered by travel agencies, make sure to purchase additional insurance to avoid being helpless in case of injury on the slopes.










▲ Tomamu Resort in Hokkaido, Japan, offers comprehensive skiing activities and facilities, making it a favorite winter holiday spot for Taiwanese.