时光相册丨新雪季开启！影像见证中国滑雪“华丽转身”

Core Viewpoint - The winter sports season in Jilin Province has officially commenced, highlighting the growing popularity of skiing as a national pastime in China, transitioning from a niche sport to a mainstream activity [1][5][12]. Group 1: Industry Growth - The number of skiers in China is projected to exceed 26 million during the 2024-2025 snow season, indicating a significant increase in participation [5]. - The successful hosting of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics has catalyzed interest in winter sports, contributing to the rise of skiing as a popular recreational activity [5][23]. - Jilin Province is recognized as one of the earliest regions in China to develop winter sports, hosting the first national skiing competition in New China [12][20]. Group 2: Historical Context - The first national skiing competition in New China took place in February 1957 in Tonghua, Jilin Province, marking the beginning of organized skiing in the country [6][12]. - Jilin Province has produced notable skiing talents, including the first skiing champion of New China, Shan Zhaojian, and has been a training ground for early Winter Olympic athletes [12][15]. - The establishment of the first skiing school in China in 1989 in Jilin City further solidified the province's role in developing skiing talent [15]. Group 3: Infrastructure and Accessibility - The number of indoor and outdoor ski resorts across China is continuously increasing, enhancing accessibility to skiing for a broader audience [31]. - Facilities are being improved to accommodate the growing interest in skiing, making it a more accessible winter sport for people across the country [31][36]. - Events and activities, such as the national skiing challenge and various skiing festivals, are being organized to promote skiing culture and participation [23][28].