Skiing in the north is more professional and people demand snow quality in resorts, while in the south the focus is on leisure and entertainment, Dai says. "Tourists in the north might need accommodation because of skiing, while it is the accommodation service that has promoted skiing in the south."

Dai adds that it's important to upgrade winter tourism in the south and combine snow activities with skiing.

This year, a winter wonderland and hot spring villas were added to the Yushe facility, and ski professionals from Northeast China's Heilongjiang province were hired to give visitors training. The Yushe resort has prepared 3,000 new ski sets that ensure better safety for visitors. The number of snowboards increased from 50 to 200 this year.

"Young people have shown a predisposition toward snowboarding, especially in the north," Dai says.

Tourist services at ski resorts in Liupanshui have expanded. Gingered sugar water, heated areas, and cafes and restaurants are in place.