Over the last decade, Altay Prefecture in Xinjiang's far north has developed from a remote and picturesque mountain outpost into one of China's premier winter sports destinations, valued for its ample quantities of pristine powder snow. The prefecture is home to three distinctive resorts: Jikepulin International Ski Resort in Hemu Village, Keketuohai (Koktokay) International Ski Resort and Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort. Each caters to different levels and styles of skiers. Here, we share a practical guide on what to wear, what to bring and how to choose the right slopes for your trip.

Dressing for skiing and sightseeing in Altay means adapting to the region's intense cold while keeping comfort and practicality in mind. For skiing, a full set of professional gear is essential. This includes moisture-wicking base layers, ski socks, hip and knee protection, a down mid-layer, a face covering, a ski suit, a helmet and goggles.

For general sightseeing, a layered approach works best. Start with a base layer, add a cardigan or sweater as a mid-layer, and finish with a warm outer coat. This "sandwich" method makes it easy to adjust when moving between the cold outdoors and well-heated indoor spaces, and it also looks great in photos. For the lower body, thick thermal leggings paired with insulated outer pants are usually sufficient.

Footwear should be chosen based on your itinerary. In the city of Altay, regular winter shoes are enough. However, for destinations like Hemu or Keketuohai, high-top waterproof and slip-resistant boots are strongly recommended. Accessories such as hats, insulated face masks and earmuffs are also essential to ensure full protection against the cold.

Bringing the right essentials can greatly enhance the overall experience of a ski trip in Altay. The sun's UV rays are particularly strong on snow, so high-protection sunscreen and a good pair of sunglasses are a must to avoid the "goggle tan." A portable shoe dryer is another highly recommended item. Timed versions can dry damp boots and gloves overnight, ensuring they are warm and comfortable the next day.

For walking on snowy or icy ground, detachable ice cleats for your shoes can make a big difference. They provide extra traction on frozen surfaces and can be easily removed when not needed, allowing you to adapt to changing conditions with ease. A high-capacity power bank is also essential, as cold temperatures can quickly drain your phone battery, making it important to have a reliable backup. Finally, do not forget hand cream. The winter air in Altay is extremely dry, and keeping your skin moisturized will effectively combat dryness and skin cracking.

Each of the three major ski resorts has its own unique features, so you can choose according to your preference.

Jikepulin International Ski Resort offers Asia's ultimate powder snow, ideal for skiers with some experience. It provides an exceptional off-piste experience, romantic scenery and a variety of recreational activities. After flying into Altay Xuedu Airport, you'll need to hire a car to reach the resort. Be sure to allow extra time for possible traffic restrictions.

Keketuohai International Ski Resort boasts diverse terrain, making it a paradise for advanced skiers. Its ski season runs from early October to mid-May—one of the longest in China—and in some years extends to the end of May. The most convenient access is via Keketuohai Airport in Fuyun County. The mountain hotels offer ski-in/ski-out convenience but are relatively expensive, while accommodations in the villages at the foot of the mountain are more affordable but require a 50-minute bus ride.

Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort is a great value choice with convenient access. Both the Xuedu Airport and hotels are near the slopes. The resort offers a lively skiing atmosphere and stunning sunset views over the city. Good hotels are available for just 200-300 yuan ($29-44) per night, and getting a taxi from the city is easy via Xueduxing, a local smart mobility mini program, the Chinese ride-hailing platform Didi, or by arranging transport with your hotel.