"I grew up in the north and am very familiar with winter sports. I want to sign up as a pioneer for the Snow & Ice Tour." After Chengdu Business Daily, in collaboration with the Sichuan Provincial Tourism Bureau, first released the authoritative Sichuan Snow & Ice Index and called for pioneers for the Snow & Ice Tour, as of yesterday, over 50 winter sports enthusiasts from across Sichuan had called in, vying to be pioneers for the Snow & Ice Tour.
The launch of the "Sichuan Snow & Ice Index," jointly introduced by the Sichuan Provincial Tourism Bureau along with various cities, prefectures, and scenic areas in the province that offer snow & ice tourism, is the first of its kind in Sichuan’s tourism history. Among those who called in to sign up were traditional skiers, extreme snowboarders, mountaineering enthusiasts, ice climbers, snow photography fans, even ice sculptors, snowmobile fanatics, and DIY winter sports aficionados who train their own dogs for dog sledding — definitely offering Sichuan residents keen on winter sports a unique introduction to snow and ice activities.
The launch of the "Sichuan Snow & Ice Index," jointly introduced by the Sichuan Provincial Tourism Bureau along with various cities, prefectures, and scenic areas in the province that offer snow & ice tourism, is the first of its kind in Sichuan’s tourism history. Among those who called in to sign up were traditional skiers, extreme snowboarders, mountaineering enthusiasts, ice climbers, snow photography fans, even ice sculptors, snowmobile fanatics, and DIY winter sports aficionados who train their own dogs for dog sledding — definitely offering Sichuan residents keen on winter sports a unique introduction to snow and ice activities.
Regarding the "Sichuan Snow & Ice Index," many winter sports enthusiasts said it would make it much easier to choose the most suitable snow & ice entertainment options for the weekend. How to interpret this newly launched "Snow & Ice Index" has become another big question among the public. To address this, Chengdu Business Daily has specially launched a column titled "Ask Us Anything About the Snow & Ice Index." Any questions you have about the index can be submitted, and we will answer them one by one together with snow & ice tourism experts.
Netizen "Colorful Moon Chasing Clouds" asks: How is the Sichuan Snow & Ice Index graded?
Answer: The first batch of scenic areas covered by the Snow & Ice Index includes Jiuzhaigou, Mount Emei, Xiling Snow Mountain, Bipenggou, Wawushan, Hailuogou, Mount Siguniang, Jiuhuangshan, Laba River, and Shenmuli. The released Snow & Ice Index is divided into four levels. Level One ★: Snow has just begun to fall, with less than 5 cm of accumulation. Scattered snow viewing is possible and travel for sightseeing is suitable. Level Two ★★: Snow has accumulated to 5–10 cm. Snowball fights are possible, and it is suitable for viewing. Level Three ★★★: Snow accumulation exceeds 10 cm. This is the best time for snow play, snow viewing, and skiing. Level Four ★★★★: Snow accumulation exceeds 10 cm. Ski resorts are fully open, making it the best period for snow play, snow viewing, and skiing.
Citizen Mr. Zhao asks: I want to learn how to snowboard. Based on the index, where is the best place to go?
Answer: If you want to learn how to snowboard, you should first go to scenic areas with a Snow & Ice Index rating of four stars or above, because such a rating indicates snow depth of over 10 cm with a soft snow layer, allowing for smooth and safe snow sports. In addition, choose a snow resort with good conditions — preferably one that offers beginner-friendly slopes — so you can safely practice your skills and build a solid foundation for future runs. Based on this issue’s Snow & Ice Index, Xiling Snow Mountain is the best choice.
Answer: If you want to learn how to snowboard, you should first go to scenic areas with a Snow & Ice Index rating of four stars or above, because such a rating indicates snow depth of over 10 cm with a soft snow layer, allowing for smooth and safe snow sports. In addition, choose a snow resort with good conditions — preferably one that offers beginner-friendly slopes — so you can safely practice your skills and build a solid foundation for future runs. Based on this issue’s Snow & Ice Index, Xiling Snow Mountain is the best choice.
Netizen "50mm Watching the World" asks: As a photography enthusiast, which places are suitable for me?
Answer: Areas with a Snow & Ice Index rating of two stars or above already have considerable snow accumulation, making them suitable for large-scale snow viewing and snowball fights. With a rating of three stars or higher, there is even more snow, but for snow photography, you need a richer variety of elements. Beyond snow, it’s best to also have sights such as icefalls, icicles, and frozen curtains. That means considering scenic areas with flowing water that can form these features. The Laba River, Jiuzhaigou, and Bipenggou are all great choices.
Answer: Areas with a Snow & Ice Index rating of two stars or above already have considerable snow accumulation, making them suitable for large-scale snow viewing and snowball fights. With a rating of three stars or higher, there is even more snow, but for snow photography, you need a richer variety of elements. Beyond snow, it’s best to also have sights such as icefalls, icicles, and frozen curtains. That means considering scenic areas with flowing water that can form these features. The Laba River, Jiuzhaigou, and Bipenggou are all great choices.
