The 12th Heilongjiang International Skiing Festival will open on Dec 12 in Harbin, the provincial capital.

Heilongjiang has spent more than 300 million yuan on skiing facilities this year, according to deputy governor Sun Yao. There are at least 40 ski resorts in the area, including three 5-star resorts, and three specialized resorts for children.

Heilongjiang is famous for its snow-covered mountains, forests, lakes, volcanoes and hot springs, many with rare geographic features.

The province has attracted skiers from more than 100 countries, and set up an international skiing travel alliance with Russia, Japan and South Korea.