Making icy rides safe when danger is all around

Although the ice towns of Northeast China may seem irresistible to those who crave snow, experienced backpackers say road trips through the frozen region may not be for everyone.

Wang Xiaofeng, vice-chairman of the China National Tourism Administration, said people from southern parts often travel in large numbers during the Spring Festival holiday to northeastern parts to enjoy snow attractions.

Nearly 53 percent of such tourists choose to travel on their own rather than with tour groups, and many of them drive their own cars or hire local drivers to steer their rented vehicles.