europe.chinadaily.com.cn
China's Winter Tourism Boom: Harbin Leads the Way
Driven by a surge in online searches, winter tourism in Harbin, China, is booming, with the Harbin Ice-Snow World expanding to host the 9th Asian Winter Games and various winter activities, while the government promotes the snow and ice economy across the Northeast.
- What is the impact of increased winter tourism on Harbin and the surrounding regions?
- \"Harbin, Heilongjiang province, is experiencing a surge in winter tourism, with online searches for ice and snow activities reaching record highs. The Harbin Ice-Snow World, expanding to 1 million square meters, will host the 9th Asian Winter Games in February, further boosting tourism.\"
- What are the potential long-term economic and social implications of this growing trend in winter tourism?
- \"The growth of winter tourism in China signifies a broader trend toward the development of the snow and ice economy, creating economic opportunities and promoting regional revitalization. The integration of sports events, such as the Asian Winter Games, into tourism infrastructure will further enhance the appeal of winter destinations and potentially lead to sustainable economic growth.\"
- How are government policies and initiatives contributing to the growth of the snow and ice economy in China?
- \"The increasing popularity of winter tourism in Harbin is driven by significant infrastructure investments, such as the expansion of the Harbin Ice-Snow World, and government initiatives to promote the snow and ice economy in Northeast China. The 72-hour visa-free transit policy extension to 144 hours will also attract more international tourists.\"
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the growth of China's ice and snow tourism industry in overwhelmingly positive terms. The headline and opening sentences emphasize the rising enthusiasm of tourists, creating a generally upbeat and optimistic tone. The inclusion of specific economic figures (revenue increases, tourist numbers) further reinforces this positive framing.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive, focusing on facts and figures. However, phrases like "enthusiasm is heating up" and "dazzling ice and snow theme park" inject a degree of subjective enthusiasm that might subtly influence reader perception. The repeated emphasis on positive economic indicators ('pre-opening revenue reached 80 million yuan ($11 million), a 47 percent increase') also contributes to a positive bias.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the economic and tourism aspects of the growth of ice and snow activities in China, neglecting potential environmental impacts of artificial snowmaking and increased tourism on the fragile ecosystems of these regions. It also omits discussion of the social equity implications of such tourism development, such as accessibility for lower-income populations.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely positive view of the expansion of the ice and snow tourism industry without exploring potential downsides or counterarguments. There's no mention of potential challenges or criticisms of this development.
Sustainable Development Goals
The development of ice and snow tourism in China contributes to sustainable urban development by creating economic opportunities, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. The increased tourism revenue can be reinvested in local communities, improving infrastructure and creating jobs. The emphasis on family-friendly activities promotes community cohesion.