Last Saturday (Jan 10), an exhilarating ice sailing regatta kicked off on the frozen surface of Bosten Lake in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region ❄️⛵ Vibrant sails caught strong winter winds as over 20 elite athletes from across mainland China zoomed off the starting line, carving sleek tracks like arrows on glassy ice.
Ice sailing is basically a turbocharged mix of traditional sailing and the thrill of gliding over frozen waters. Athletes grip wind-powered iceboats—lightweight frames on skates—and steer at speeds that feel like a rollercoaster but under the open sky ⛸️💨
This event is the crown jewel of the Bosten Lake Ice and Snow Season, a winter festival designed to turn the region’s “cold resources” into a “hot attraction.” From ice sculpting workshops to snow karaoke nights, the season has been luring adventure seekers and social media creators alike. Think #WinterVibes meets #AdventureGoals!
For young travelers in South and Southeast Asia craving new experiences—swap your tropical beaches for frozen panoramas! Ice sailing might sound wild, but it’s accessible: basic training is available on-site, and watching pro athletes in action is free for spectators. 📲✨
With temperatures dipping below –10°C, local vendors are serving up hot mutton kebabs and steaming cups of sweet milk tea to keep you warm. It’s the perfect recipe for a viral travel story—or your next weekend getaway! 🍢🫖
So, are you ready to add some chill to your feed? Grab your puffer jacket and let Xinjiang’s ice sailing scene inspire your 2026 winter adventures! ❄️📷
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
