Cold comfort

Northernmost city

Despite temperatures in Mohe dropping to minus 40 C, China's northernmost city is presenting its winter charm to tourists.

The city is one of the few places in China with a subarctic climate — long, severe winters and short, warm summers. Winter begins in early to mid-October and lasts until late April. It is the coldest place in China, holding the record for the lowest temperature at minus 52.3 C in 1956.

Beiji village, 88 kilometers from the city center, virtually attracts all visitors to Mohe, to see China's northernmost bank and post office, as well as to experience traditional rural life in the country's northeast.

The first Polar Forest Ice Carnival and the 13th Winter Solstice Cultural Festival kicked off on Dec 18 in Beiji, attracting thousands of residents and tourists to join various local folk activities related to ice and snow.

At the opening ceremony, hundreds joined a traditional activity of tossing hot water from pots into the freezing air, creating a spectacular scene as the water instantly froze into icy arcs and spiky "clouds".

"With a variety of winter activities, more residents are attracted to the festival," said local resident Wang Jianlong, adding that it brings people close to nature, too. "Our interest in ice and snow has given new life to the beautiful scenery in Mohe, stirring up winter in the border area."

Zhou Lin, a travel researcher with the Heilongjiang Academy of Social Sciences, said: "Winter tourism in China is producing a new consumption trend. However, it is important to promote consumer experience rather than just trying to expand the market."

Product managers should pay attention to innovation in winter tourism to suit various consumers and improve services, she added.