China’s newest ski resort is more like a theme park on ice

China's newest indoor ski resort aims to bring the French Alps to Shanghai.

After five years in development, China’s Taicang Alps Resort, just 70 km from downtown Shanghai, has officially opened. The indoor ski and snow park takes its name and inspiration from the French Alps, and features several winter-themed “urban experiences” including a 54,000 square metre indoor ski resort designed by world-leading resort operator Compagnie des Alpes (CDA).

Geared towards beginners, the Alps Snow Live Ski Resort features five slopes of varying difficulties, seven magic carpets, an Elan-equipped rental shop, and a team of professional ski instructors catering to all ages and abilities. The neighbouring ice and snow park is an alternative option for non-skiers, with a range of activities on offer including a penguin exhibit, an ice palace, plus ice and snow-themed shows and performances.

Image: Fosun

China is now responsible for 5 of the world’s 10 largest indoor ski resorts including Harbin Wanda Mall Snow Park, which at 72,600 square metres sits at #1. The country’s 50+ indoor slopes welcomed 3.43 million visitors during the 2022/23 winter season, accounting for almost 20% of a total 19.83 million skier visits. Taicang’s newest facility will soon face competition from Shanghai Snow World, another indoor ski resort set to open at the end of this year.

Taicang Alps Resort. Image: Fosun

Of course, skiing is just one of several activities on offer at Taicang’s Alps Resort complex. The park also features an alpine-style village with restaurants, ski shops, natural landscapes and an immersive digital art gallery.

The resort in its entirety was developed by Chinese investment firm Fosun, who in 2015 purchased Club Med for nearly USD$1 billion. A new Club Med “Urban Oasis” hotel has been built on-site, making it one of several Club Med ski hotels in China. The company, famous for its all-inclusive package holidays, already has branches in Yabuli, Beidahu and Changbaishan, three of China’s most popular ski destinations.

Image: Fosun

Club Med’s Taicang branch offers a range of Alps-themed facilities and services designed to emulate the European après-ski experience including “Summit Lounge”, a chalet-style pub with a mountain-themed drinks list, and “L‘ALPS”, an international buffet restaurant featuring “alpine specialties”.

Its all-inclusive package, which covers skiing and snow activities, is offered as an add-on for CNY¥1,798 (USD$250) per day. Accommodation starts at ¥1,288.00 per night for a Superior Room (King Bed), with premium and suite options available.