Nanshan, an hour from downtown Beijing, is China’s most accessible ski resort. Although it provides only 200m of vertical and limited natural snow, the ample cover from snowmaking and fun features of this little hill are perfect for beginners and could even keep an advanced skier entertained for the day.
As a testament to its day trip status, nightlife at the resort seems to be non-existent and lodging is limited to a small hotel and some rather expensive rental chalets. For those feeling adventurous or if the resort is booked up there is a basic lodge behind the mountain adjacent to one of its trails. It is not certain if this even exists anymore but it might be worth asking about. If the pollution is bad in Beijing it will most likely be the same here. Nanshan is in a fairly industrial area and Miyun town doesn’t seem to have much to offer. We have heard rumors of some fun bars in town filled with snowboarding expats though.
Despite its shortcomings, the mountain hosts some enjoyable contests and promotional events; even Glen Plake was here last winter at a mogul competition. Nanshan has one of the best bump trails in China off of the highest and steepest part of the hill that could keep the mogul skiers happy for a day. Lastly and most importantly, Nanshan has China’s best park. Their three massive hits and smaller fun boxes and rails are worthy of hosting the 5 star Nanshan Mellowparks Red Bull Open snowboard competition which attracts riders from all over the world. Be sure to check out the Mellowparks website for information on contests and events, snowboarding in China and to see their annual film. www.mellowparks.cn
See the official Nanshan English website for all additional information: http://www.nanshanski.com/index-en.asp
Nanshan is small but it gets the job done
mellowparks.cn runs the best park in China and its right here 1 hour from Beijing
In addition to the big jumps the Mellowpark has some smaller features
Going big at Nanshan
Redbull Nanshan Open. China’s premier snowboard comp
View from the park
Nicely shaped bumps!
Beginner slope
Beginner slope and park side by side