Praise for Olympic venues snowballing as the nation warms to chilly pursuits

Leaders of international winter sports federations are lauding China's efforts to bring new fans to ice and snow in the leadup to Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

With the International Ski Federation's World Cup series just around the corner, host venue Genting Resort Secret Garden in Hebei province has entered its peak season, with about 2,000 skiers and snowboarders visiting the 35-slope resort every day to maintain steady growth approaching to the New Year holiday break.

The bustling scene at the resort, which will also host freestyle skiing and snowboarding during the 2022 Olympics, offers a snapshot of China's growing enthusiasm for winter sports.