So it finally happened. After years of wondering and speculation, it would appear there has always been a ski slope near our home in Shijingshan, Beijing. Even the local Chinese people who I asked in the past have denied its existence. Thankfully, on page 106 of the Beijing trip adviser app, we found the details and location!
The best part about skiing in China is that everyone is a beginner. People of all ages are crashing into each other left, right and centre while you are desperately trying to keep yourself from falling.
As a beginner myself, I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and found the slopes survivable. You can ski or snowboard and both are available for rent in the main building, along with various ski shops, where you can buy warm clothes and equipment.
The ticket buying and equipment renting part of the experience was the biggest challenge, as even the Chinese visitors were confused and shouting at each other trying to work out what to do. Once you have run the gauntlet of equipment hiring, you are then free to ski your day away.
I truly feel I improved my skills that day and it was great to get a bit of exercise. The most peaceful part of the day was when we were on the ski lift on our way to the top of the slope. You could see across the mountains and watch everybody ski beneath you. This Zen experience was, however, rudely interrupted by the need to exit the ski lift at the top.
It turns out that getting off of the ski lift was the day’s biggest challenge as I either fell over or knocked others over as I was scrambling to safety.
It was certainly a great day out and I certainly plan to return before Beijing starts to get warmer and the season ends.