Recent survey results showed that 1.2 million Baotou residents have engaged in ice and snow sports, a participation rate of 43.6 percent. Traditional ice and snow activities remain the most popular.

Ice and snow sports enthusiasts pose for a photo at a ski resort in Baotou. [Photo/Baotou news network]

As an emerging industry, the ice and snow economy boasts a long industrial chain, strong traffic attraction, and significant social benefits.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of residents' participation and spending in ice and snow activities during the 2024–2025 winter season, the public opinion survey center of the Baotou municipal people's government conducted a specialized survey involving 2,880 permanent residents.

Over 56 percent of participants participated in skating, skiing, curling, and ice hockey. Folk winter activities such as ice sledding, snowball fights, building snowmen, and snow tubing attracted 52 percent of respondents. Meanwhile, 52 percent participated in ice and snow tourism, enjoyed ice lantern and sculpture exhibitions, attended winter camps, or watched live ice and snow sports events.

Entrance tickets were identified as the primary expenditure, accounting for 82 percent of total spending. Other major expenses included sports equipment, dining, and transportation.

Experts suggest that Baotou should promote the integration and diversification of the ice and snow industry, expand sports development space, improve facilities, and optimize supporting services to enhance residents' participation experiences.