XUNKE, Feb. 3 – The stunning rime scenery created by supercooled water droplets from the Kurbin River in Pingtai Village, Heilongjiang Province, has become a magnet for winter tourism, bolstering the rural economy in northeast China. Despite the freezing temperatures, the presence of a working hydropower station ensures that the Kurbin River remains unfrozen, allowing for the enchanting rime formation on the tree branches along its banks.
Visitors from across the country are flocking to Pingtai Village to witness this natural spectacle firsthand. The crystalline ice formations on the trees, known as rime, present a picturesque and captivating landscape that has been drawing tourists in droves.
Local authorities have embraced this newfound interest and are actively promoting the area as a winter tourism destination. Through the development of infrastructure, accommodation, and hospitality services, they have ensured that tourists have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The surge in visitor numbers has provided a tremendous boost to the rural economy, breathing new life into the local community.
In an interview, Zhang Wei, a tourist from Beijing, expressed her awe at the beauty of the rime scenery. I have seen countless photos of rime, but being here in person and experiencing it is truly breathtaking. It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland, Zhang said.
The increase in tourist footfall has also led to the emergence of various businesses catering to their needs. Local vendors sell traditional crafts and souvenirs, while restaurants offer regional delicacies, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Wang Li, a local business owner, shared his enthusiasm for the economic benefits brought by winter tourism. Previously, our village primarily relied on agriculture for sustenance. However, with the rise in tourism, we have witnessed a significant economic transformation. Many villagers have found employment in the tourism industry, and our businesses have flourished, Wang explained.
The surge in tourism has not only brought prosperity to the region but has also created opportunities for cultural exchange and appreciation. Visitors from other parts of China are now able to learn about the unique traditions and customs of the local community. This has fostered mutual understanding and strengthened the bonds between different regions of the country.
With the success of winter tourism in Pingtai Village, other rural areas in northeast China are looking to replicate this model and tap into the potential of their own unique natural resources. By capitalizing on the distinctive attributes of each region, they hope to create sustainable economic growth and uplift their communities.
As winter tourism continues to thrive in Pingtai Village, it serves as a testament to the remarkable power of nature to attract visitors and invigorate local economies. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rime scenery stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, demonstrating how communities can find innovative ways to leverage their resources for growth and opportunity.
As the cold winter months persist, tourists are expected to flock to Pingtai Village in even greater numbers, eager to witness the captivating rime formations and contribute to the flourishing rural economy in northeast China.
