China’s Winter Sports Boom: Skiing & Tennis See Growth | 2026 Update

A surge in participation for both skiing and tennis is driving significant growth in related product demand and facility usage. Recent observations in Beijing illustrate this trend, with peak visitor times at both outdoor ski resorts and the Beijing National Tennis Center. This increased engagement signals a broader shift in recreational preferences.

Rising Popularity of Winter Sports

Beijing’s ski resorts experienced a first-round peak in visitors on January 27, 2026, attracting both newcomers and seasoned skiers. This coincides with data showing a 10% increase in cumulative skier visits nationwide during the first month of the 2025-2026 snow season, reaching 0.35 billion visits. Consumer spending at these resorts also rose, increasing by 6% to 36.35 billion yuan during the same period.

Tennis Gains Momentum

The Beijing National Tennis Center is also seeing increased activity, with players ranging in age from young children to seniors actively utilizing the courts. Nationwide, participation in tennis reached approximately 25.36 million people in 2025, a 6.5% year-over-year increase.

Projections indicate that tennis participation in China could surpass 32 million by 2030, potentially establishing the country as a global leader in the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the cumulative skier visit count for the first month of the 2025-2026 snow season?

The cumulative skier visit count was 0.35 billion.

By how much did tennis participation increase in China in 2025?

Tennis participation increased by 6.5% in 2025.

What is the projected tennis participation number for China in 2030?

Tennis participation is projected to exceed 32 million by 2030.

As participation in these sports continues to rise, what impact might this have on the development of related tourism and hospitality sectors?