Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the preservation and innovation of the ancient fur ski board-making technique in Altay, Xinjiang, showcasing its cultural significance and economic impact on the local community [1][3][9]. Group 1: Cultural Heritage - The fur ski board-making technique is recognized as a regional intangible cultural heritage, with Slandbek Shahas as its representative inheritor [2][3]. - This ancient craft has been passed down through five generations, with Slandbek being the fourth generation, emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural significance [3][4]. - The ski boards were historically essential for survival in harsh winter conditions, reflecting the ingenuity of local nomadic peoples [5][6]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The production of fur ski boards has attracted numerous tourists and ski enthusiasts, improving the living conditions of Slandbek's family [3][6]. - The introduction of modern machinery has increased production efficiency and enhanced the quality of the ski boards, allowing for the creation of mini ski boards that appeal to a broader market [6][9]. - The tourism sector in Altay has seen a 20% increase in overall visitor numbers, with an average of 15,000 daily visitors during the 2024-2025 ski season [9]. Group 3: Education and Future Prospects - The integration of skiing into the compulsory physical education curriculum in local schools has fostered a new generation of young athletes, with over 360 registered youth ski athletes [9]. - Slandbek actively engages with local children, teaching them the traditional craft and instilling appreciation for their cultural heritage [9][10]. - The connection between ancient ski culture and modern events, such as the Beijing Winter Olympics, has elevated the profile of Altay's ski heritage on a global stage [10].

Core Insights - The article highlights the development of the ice and snow economy in Altay, Xinjiang, transitioning from a winter-focused economy to a year-round outdoor experience destination [1][2][3] Group 1: Cultural Heritage and Traditional Skills - The region is home to traditional craftsmanship, such as the making of fur ski boards, which has been passed down through generations, emphasizing the cultural significance of these practices [1] - Altay has been recognized as the "origin of human skiing," supported by ancient rock paintings depicting the use of fur ski boards for hunting over 10,000 years ago [1] Group 2: Tourism Development - Altay is positioned within the "golden skiing belt" at latitude 47°, known for its fine powder snow and low humidity, making it an attractive destination for winter sports [2] - The region has developed four major ski resorts and aims to become a top tourist destination in China and a globally recognized ice and snow sports hub [2] - As of now, 50 A-level scenic spots and 9 ski resorts have been established, with a projected total of 33.31 million visitors and a spending of 29.96 billion yuan by August 2025 [2] Group 3: Economic Goals and Future Plans - A recent meeting outlined plans to enhance the ice and snow economy in Altay and surrounding areas, focusing on comprehensive planning and product diversification [3] - Xinjiang aims for the ice and snow industry to reach a total output value of 200 billion yuan by 2030, establishing itself as a premier tourist destination in China and worldwide [3]

Group 1 - The article highlights the growth of the ice and snow industry in Xinjiang, particularly in the Altay region, where traditional craftsmanship is being revitalized through tourism and modern demand for snow sports [1][2] - The "fur ski board," a traditional tool for winter hunting, has transformed into a popular souvenir, showcasing the blend of cultural heritage and contemporary tourism [1][2] - The local government has supported the establishment of workshops and training programs to promote the traditional craft of fur ski board making, contributing to the region's cultural and economic development [2] Group 2 - The data indicates that the Jiangjun Mountain International Ski Resort, located in a city, is expected to receive 890,000 visitors during the 2024-2025 snow season, with 78% of visitors coming from outside Xinjiang [2] - The Xinjiang government has outlined plans to develop a modern ice and snow industry system, aiming for a total industry output value of 200 billion yuan by 2030, positioning Xinjiang as a leading area for ice and snow economy [3]

(砥砺奋进七十载 天山南北谱华章)滑雪板的"古"与"今"见证新疆冰雪产业兴起 中新社新疆阿勒泰9月10日电 题：滑雪板的"古"与"今"见证新疆冰雪产业兴起 作者 胡嘉琛 李佳悦 在新疆阿勒泰市拉斯特乡，年过七旬的斯兰别克·沙和什俯身用工具刨着松木，制作"毛皮滑雪板"。"我 爷爷越冬狩猎时，它是必备工具。"从穿梭于林海雪原的交通工具，到巴掌大小的旅游纪念品，一副滑 雪板记录了老人50余载"守艺创新"，也见证新疆冰雪产业的蓬勃发展。 斯兰别克9日接受中新社采访时说，他15岁起就随爷爷和父亲学习制作"毛皮滑雪板"。阿勒泰冬季平均 积雪厚度在1.5米以上，积雪期在6个月以上。"冬季积雪深，马匹没法在雪地前行。而用毛皮制作的滑 雪板，下坡滑行时能加速，上坡时增加摩擦。"斯兰别克说。 "毛皮滑雪板"体现着生存智慧。斯兰别克说，当地人曾害怕下大雪，会影响交通和生产。而今，随着基 础设施建设不断完善和旅游业发展，全国各地乃至海外的游客纷纷前来"追雪"。 这种变化并非偶然。2015年，18个国家的专家学者在阿勒泰市共同发布的国际共识文件，宣告新疆阿勒 泰地区为人类滑雪最早起源地。2022年北京冬奥会更使中国民众冰雪热情高涨，八 ...

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of traditional craftsmanship in the production of fur snowboards in Altay, Xinjiang, showcasing the integration of cultural heritage with modern tourism and sports industries [1][2][5]. Group 1: Traditional Craftsmanship - The production of fur snowboards is a skill passed down through generations, with Slandbek Shahash being a fifth-generation craftsman [2]. - The technique involves using horse leg fur, which enhances speed when going downhill and provides grip when going uphill, demonstrating the ingenuity of local ancestors [2][5]. - Government support has been crucial in preserving this traditional craft, allowing Slandbek to establish a workshop and exhibition space in 2010 [2][5]. Group 2: Tourism and Market Demand - The Altay region has seen a 20% increase in visitor numbers during the 2024-2025 snow season, with around 15,000 daily visitors across four major ski resorts [3][4]. - The workshop has become a popular tourist attraction, with innovative products like mini snowboards being developed for visitors, leading to over 300 sales in a single season [4]. - The rise in interest in fur snowboards has turned them into sought-after souvenirs, contributing to the local economy and tourism growth [4][5]. Group 3: Sports and Education - The Altay region has a rich history in winter sports, with organized training and competitions dating back to the 1950s [5]. - Since 2020, skiing has been incorporated into the educational curriculum, with over 360 registered youth athletes in the region [5]. - Slandbek frequently teaches the craft to younger generations, ensuring the continuation and innovation of this traditional skill within the context of modern sports and tourism [5].