Just after the Start of Winter, the light snow of winter is also quietly approaching. In summer, we yearn for the ocean; in winter, we look forward to snowfall—both bring immense joy to outdoor enthusiasts. Have you already made plans with a few close friends to enjoy the snowy scenery this winter, savoring “newly brewed wine in green jugs and a small stove of red clay”? For those who haven’t decided where to admire the snow yet, you can refer to this freshly released winter travel guide!
Fenghuangshan Double Peak Forest Farm, Heilongjiang: Snowscapes and human warmth are a perfect match
If you want to visit a city covered in ice and snow in winter, the most recommended destination in China is undoubtedly Shuangfeng Forest Farm in Changting Town, Hailin City, Heilongjiang—the most beautiful Snow Town. Known as “China’s Most Beautiful Snow Village,” Shuangfeng Forest Farm is the region with the heaviest snowfall in the country, with snow cover lasting about seven months each year. It’s no exaggeration that the thickest snow can reach nearly two meters.
It’s now mid-November. Although Guangdong is still in short sleeves, heading to Shuangfeng Forest Farm means entering a world of ice and snow. Snowflakes drift with the wind and settle in every corner, and the “quilt-like snow” is one of the unique features of the Snow Town. During the day, the scenery is pure white and flawless; when everything is frozen, the world becomes especially serene. As dusk falls, the red lanterns and lights from every household contrast beautifully with the snow, casting a warm glow over the vast white landscape, adding a touch of liveliness to this snowy world.
(Daytime snow scene at Shuangfeng Forest Farm)
(Nighttime snow scene at Shuangfeng Forest Farm)
Hokkaido, Japan: A chance encounter with powder snow
If you’ve already experienced the snowscapes of Northeast China, heading abroad to see snow is also a great option. The snow scenery in Hokkaido, Japan, is a favorite of mine and my friends. Thanks to its geographical advantage and the influence of ocean currents, Hokkaido doesn’t get extremely cold in winter but still satisfies people’s desire to enjoy the snow. The most magical thing is the rare powder snow produced here. Many powder snow enthusiasts can’t help but get excited at the mention of “powder snow,” right? Here’s a photography tip: hold some low-moisture, fluffy powder snow in your hands and gently blow it toward the camera. Watch as the snowflakes flurry down, and capture the moment when the camera freezes the frame—that’s already a beautiful photo. Visiting Hokkaido to admire the snow is very convenient, and if you happen to catch a suitable snow festival, it will be an especially unforgettable snow-viewing experience!
Netizens have compiled a comprehensive list of Hokkaido snow festival dates. Have you all jotted them down? It’s time to book your flights!
Furano Kan-Kan Village event: Starts in late December and ends in early March of the following year
Hoshino Resorts Ishiuchi Ice Village event: Runs from mid-December to mid-March of the following year
2019 Shiranuka Ice Waterfall Festival: January 25 to March 17
2019 Shikotsu Lake Ice Festival: Late January to mid-February
2019 Sapporo Snow Festival: February 4 to 11
2019 Otaru Snow Light Path: February 8 to 17
2019 Lake Akan Ice and Snow Festival: February 2 to March 2
Shiretoko Drift Ice Walk: Early to late February
Abashiri Icebreaker Cruise: Early to late February
Swiss Alps: Snow and clouds, unpredictable and enchanting
If you want to admire the beauty of Western snowscapes, snow viewing in Switzerland in Europe is also a unique experience. Among its 48 majestic snow-capped peaks over 4,000 meters above sea level, you can feel the coolness of falling snowflakes in an open-air hot spring, ride a sled at the foot of the mountain, take a cogwheel train through the mountains like in a movie, or ride a cable car up the snowy peaks to explore the continuous mountain ranges and experience the snow world from different perspectives. You can also enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue here, feeling the warmth of hearty food.
Winter is the best time for snow viewing. When traveling abroad to see snow, a caring companion is indispensable. Besides keeping warm with heat packs, snow boots, down jackets, etc., the GlocalMe portable WiFi is also an essential travel companion. Even during outdoor activities in icy conditions, it provides top-quality WiFi signals, offering access to networks in over 130 countries and regions. Whether you’re traveling or admiring the snow, you can enjoy seamless connectivity without worrying about getting lost or disconnected.
When traveling with friends, you can share GlocalMe WiFi. And if your camera runs out of power, the GlocalMe G3 can also be a lifesaver in the wild. The tranquility of the winter snow can make you forget worldly troubles, and the GlocalMe portable WiFi is the perfect travel companion. This winter, let’s set off in high spirits and invite family and friends to enjoy the snow outdoors together.