Beijing Wtown becomes a winter wonderland

Drones will carry kongming lanterns shaped like Santa, Christmas trees and auspicious Chinese characters at Beijing Wtown in December.

Their flights are part of a series of programs integrating traditional Chinese elements and Christmas themes that the resort in the capital's northeastern Miyun district has developed to make it a wintertime hot spot.

Polychromatic lighting takes the form of flowers and animals, such as reindeer, and creates a fairyland at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall.

"We've created more interactive elements to enrich visitors' experiences this year," sales manager Zhou Jianhong says.

The water town will also stage a Christmas parade, and guests can join dances and games.

Wtown's central square will host a carnival featuring Western and Chinese snacks, including candied haws, roast turkey and gingerbread houses. Visitors can also engage such traditional folk arts as dough figurines. Two pavilions offer Swiss products.

Interactive operas are staged in a theater near the square.

The resort will also host a Christmas party featuring gourmet food, bonfires, folk performances and games. Winter sports and performances on a frozen lake will be organized when the weather gets colder.

It has launched packages for family travelers, couples, international students and foreign chambers of commerce that cover entrance tickets, food and entertainment.

"We've already received dozens of package orders for December," Zhou says.

Guests made over 400,000 visits during November and December last year. Numbers peak around Spring Festival, when up to 30,000 people visit daily.

Wtown will host temple fairs and traditional celebrations during the festival, Zhou says.

"Although it's cold, we've prepared so travelers can enjoy unique winter experiences," she says.