Heavy snowfall in Northern China last weekend resulted in low temperatures and congested traffic. But as the first ski season commences, this serves as a great opportunity for the tourism industry. Ski resorts around the country are already preparing to cater to flocking tourists, according to Xinhua.

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Beijing won the bid several months ago to host to the Winter Olympics in 2022. Chongli County in northwestern Hebei province will host winter sports events that inclde cross-country and freestyle displays.

Heavy snowfall has been recorded in Zhangjiakou City in Hebei province since the beginning of this month. The city was covered with a thick layer of snow over the weekend and this prompted authorities to disseminate information on caution, especially since icy roads that can be a potential hazard for accidents.

However, this did not hinder the winter sport enthusiasts from dropping by several ski resorts during the first snowfall this winter season.

Four ski resorts have opened in Chongli County in the first week of November. These resorts were reportedly made operational earlier than the expected date.

The ski resorts reportedly attract up to 17,000 tourists during weekends.

"Many parts of Northern China have been hit by several snowfalls this November," said Liu Jianjun, a meteorological expert.

Jianjun added that even though the snowfall brought nuisance to the Chinese citizens, it is 'good news' for ski resorts since it can generate income through tourism and winter sports.

"The number has doubled compared with the same period last year," said Yu Donglin, Wanglong Ski Resort's General Manager.

Yu also stated that the Wanglong Ski Resort receives about 300-500 visitors per day. However, during weekends, the amount of visitors increases to about 1,500-1,700.

With only seven years before the official Winter Olympics kicks off, more Chinese cities are venturing into winter sports tourism.

This trend has been described as "the Olympic effect".

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