Chongqing—This winter, Jingfo Mountain in Nanchuan District, Chongqing, has become a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts and cultural exploration. My recent day spent in this stunning region was nothing short of magical. From the awe-inspiring ice waterfalls and skiing on the North Slope of Jinfo Mountain to the vibrant night market at Tianxing Ancient Town, this place truly has it all.

A winter wonderland at Jingfo mountain

Known for hosting its 26th annual ice and snow season, Jingfo Mountain has once again captured the hearts of visitors. This year, the festival boasts an upgraded skiing experience, mesmerizing snow-covered landscapes, and a rare chance to explore the scenic Yunhai Trail — typically closed during winter. 

My day began with a visit to one of Jingfo Mountain's most celebrated attractions: the ice waterfall. Taking advantage of geographical conditions, high altitude, and weather, water is frozen into a waterfall-shaped landscape under low-temperature conditions through special equipment and technology. The ice waterfall provides a perfect backdrop for photography and social media moments.

A snapshot of the ice waterfall of Jingfo Mountain (Photo/Tan Xinyu)

Skiing: a thrill amidst the peaks

Next came an adrenaline-pumping adventure on the slopes, where I went skiing for the first time after a long break. The atmosphere at the resort was amazing, and the instructor was a true professional, helping me quickly gain confidence. The beautiful slopes and fresh mountain air made the experience unforgettable. It was a great way to get back into winter sports.

Jingfo Mountain’s ski resort is a winter sports enthusiast’s paradise, offering a variety of trails suited for beginners and experts. As the premier skiing destination in southern China, it features three ski areas—the North Slope Ski Resort, the West Slope Ski Resort, and the Yaochiba Snow Fun Park—spanning over 150,000 square meters. With its combination of natural snow and advanced artificial snowmaking technology, the resort offers some of the longest-lasting snow conditions in the region.

For those less inclined to ski, there were ample opportunities to enjoy the scenery or try other activities, such as tubing or building snowmen. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere made it an ideal destination for families, groups of friends, and solo adventurers.

Natalia's ski adventure on Jingfo Mountain (Photo/Deng Nan)

Tianxing ancient town: a night to remember

After an exciting day in the snow, I visited Tianxing Ancient Town at the western foot of Jingfo Mountain. The town offers an unparalleled cultural retreat with a mix of hot springs, local delicacies, and captivating activities. Illuminated by traditional lanterns, the narrow streets were bustling with vendors selling everything from handicrafts to local delicacies. Sampling the food was a highlight of my visit. One particularly memorable dish was the local specialty, a hot and fragrant Nanchuan hotpot, that provided a perfect antidote to the evening chill. 

Natalia's culinary adventure: tasting local delicacies in Tianxing ancient town (Photo/Zhou Junjie)

A perfect blend of adventure and tradition

My day at Jingfo Mountain and Tianxing Ancient Town was a testament to Chongqing's diverse experiencesoffers. From thrilling winter sports to rich cultural immersion, the trip showcased the perfect blend of modern attractions and traditional charm. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque winter getaway, Jingfo Mountain and Tianxing Ancient Town have something extraordinary to offer.