Shanxi's winter tourism turns red hot

TAIYUAN -- Authorities have begun to tap north China's Shanxi Province's winter tourism potential to bolster the local economy.

The Shanxi government has launched a "snow and ice" tourism ceremony in Jinzhong City and released a guide on the tourism products in the province known for its collieries.

Shanxi has abundant highland resources, and its icy period in winter is usually quite long, making it perfect for winter tourism, according to the provincial department of culture and tourism.

"We promote ice skating, hot springs and local traditions here," said deputy department head Li Gui. "We have selected more than 30 winter tourism products for the public."

Li said the sector is still "at a developing stage," and that the local government will pay more attention to support it in the future.