Changchun’s Jingyuetan International Vasaloppet Ski Festival will open on January 2, 2015, the second day of the New Year, in Changchun, capital city of Jilin province.

A total of 500 professional skiers from 18 countries have registered for the long-distance ski race following the city’s entry into the world-recognized Worldoppet Ski Federation in Italy in June, according to the organising committee.

China is the 20th country to hold the event worldwide following Austria, Italy, Germany, France and Norway to name a few.

Many skiers prepare for the upcoming long-distance ski race at the Jingyuetan ski resort.[Photo/TheNewCulturaNewspaper]