Group 1: Geographic and Cultural Significance - The Altay region in Xinjiang is characterized by its unique geography, including the Altai Mountains and two significant rivers, the Ertix River and the Ulu River, and borders three countries: Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia [1][10] - The region is known for its rich natural scenery and cultural heritage, attracting many international tourists, particularly to sites like Kanas Lake and the ancient rock paintings depicting early skiing [1][5] Group 2: Economic Development and Trade - The Jiemu Nai Port serves as a crucial trade gateway between China and Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia, with over a century of commercial history and increased efficiency in customs processing [2][3] - The port's reopening 30 years ago has led to a surge in cross-border trade and tourism, with 44,000 travelers recorded from January to July this year, many participating in ice and snow tourism [3] Group 3: Skiing Culture and Heritage - The Altay region is recognized as a significant site for the origins of skiing, with evidence of ancient skiing practices dating back 10,000 to 20,000 years [5][6] - The region hosts annual events promoting traditional skiing, including the ancient fur skiing competition, which highlights the cultural connection between China and Kazakhstan [6][7] Group 4: Tourism and Sports Development - The Altay region has seen a rapid development of ski resorts, with major facilities like the General Mountain International Ski Resort, which is the closest ski resort to a city in China [7][8] - The region welcomed 1.408 million ski tourists this season, marking a 23.37% increase, indicating a growing interest in winter sports and tourism [7]

Core Points - The article highlights Altay, Xinjiang, as the origin of human skiing, supported by historical evidence from over 12,000 years ago [1] - In 2015, experts from 18 countries recognized Altay as the birthplace of skiing through the "2015 Altay Declaration" [1] - Traditional skills in making ancient fur skis have been preserved as an intangible cultural heritage in Xinjiang [1] - Altay serves as a significant platform for both the history of skiing and modern winter sports [1] Summary by Sections - **Historical Significance** - Altay is located at the world's optimal skiing latitude of 47° North [1] - The painted rock art in the Dune De Brak Cave documents early skiing activities of ancient Altay people [1] - **Cultural Recognition** - The 2015 Altay Declaration by skiing historians established Altay's global recognition as the origin of skiing [1] - **Cultural Heritage** - The traditional craft of making fur skis has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage in Xinjiang [1] - **Modern Relevance** - Altay is portrayed as a continuous stage for skiing culture, linking ancient practices to contemporary winter sports [1]