China's Biggest Ski Event Kicks off in the Northeast

The Vasaloppet China for 2016 got off to a great start, on Jan 4 in Jingyuetan Park in the city of Changchun, Jilin Province, with a range of events, from a skiing marathon to many other activities.

Visitors get a photo in front of one of the sculptures at Jingyuetan park, Changchun, on Jan 4. It gives students and children a chance to test themselves on skis for the first time and to promote tourism, cultural exchanges and business.

Massive ice sculpture is just one of the tourism attractions. Vasaloppet China has grown rapidly -- from 750 registered participants, back in 2003, to about 10,000, this year, coming from China and abroad.

Skiers are at the start of a race in Jingyuetan Park, Changchun, Jilin province, on Jan 4.