Planning & Construction
World’s largest indoor ski resort to open in autumn
Although snow and frost are rare in Shenzhen, residents will soon be able to enjoy an indoor ski resort when Huafa Ice and Snow World opens in autumn 2025.
Located in the heart of the Qianhai Bay area and in close proximity to the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center, Huafa Ice and Snow World will, upon completion, be the world’s largest indoor ice and snow center.
According to the Shenzhen city government, and as stated by the developer, the center will cover about 100,000 square meters – equivalent to the area of eleven soccer fields – and feature an impressive lift-served vertical drop of 83 meters along with a single ski run measuring 441 meters in length.
Design
blue whale leaping from the water.
Architecture
Designed by the internationally renowned design studio 10Design, the building resembles a blue whale leaping from the water, symbolizing the vibrant spirit and dynamic growth of Shenzhen.
In addition to the ski facilities, the center will feature themed hotels, shopping venues, parks, and other leisure and recreation areas. It is expected to attract around one million tourists from around the world each year.
As reported by China Daily, the complex will also feature a 33-meter-deep “suspended ice waterfall” that will serve as a diving facility.
Huafa Ice and Snow World:
It is expected to attract around one million tourists from around the world each year.
Additional facilities in development
According to China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Co, the main structure of the ski center has been completed, and the project is currently in the equipment installation and finishing phase.
The construction of complementary facilities, including a JW Marriott hotel, is also on schedule. To assist visitors, a pedestrian walkway is planned to connect the Ice and Snow World with the nearby Metro Line 20, which is currently under construction.
World record:
According to the World Indoor Snow Centers Guide 2023, China already hosts the three largest indoor snow centers in the world. The opening of Huafa Ice and Snow World will surpass the current record holder in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin, which opened in 2016.
Prime location
The Ice and Snow World is strategically located next to the Shenzhen World Convention and Exhibition Center and the Shenzhen Waterlands, serving as a hub for business travel, leisure, and tourism in Qianhai.
According to the city government, the state-of-the-art indoor ski center will become a major attraction in Shenzhen, offering year-round winter sports and leisure experiences in a tropical climate.
After its opening, the Huafa Center will be capable of hosting international ski events sanctioned by the International Ski Federation, making it an important base for ice and snow sports.
It will also host a training camp for youth winter games, where both domestic and international champion coaches will train winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels.
