Xinhua News Agency, Harbin, Nov. 20 (Reporter Liu Jingyang) — While recent heavy snowfall has caused considerable inconvenience to urban life in Harbin, local ski resorts are quietly rejoicing. Thanks to this once-in-over-50-years snowstorm, they can not only save a significant amount on artificial snow-making costs but also look forward to opening their slopes earlier.
The Yabuli Yawanshi Ski Resort was the first to open on the 15th, becoming the earliest ski resort in Harbin to begin operations this winter. According to reports, early winter skiing is currently limited to beginner slopes, while advanced slopes usually have to wait until December when artificially-made snow reaches a compacted depth of 35 centimeters. This snowfall not only eliminates the need for artificial snow production but is also expected to bring the opening date forward by about 10 days.
It is reported that compared to artificial snow, natural snow has a finer and denser texture, offering a more comfortable skiing experience. Staff at the Harbin Jihua Changshoushan Ski Resort said that the blizzard has brought over 70 centimeters of natural snow to Changshoushan. In years with less snowfall, artificial snow-making would take about half a month, but this year, it will likely take no more than a week.
Industry insiders predict that ski resorts within Harbin’s urban area may open to the public about a week earlier this year. By then, the combination of natural snow and a small amount of artificial snow will provide better footing for ski boards, offering skiing enthusiasts a rare and exceptional skiing experience.