The second edition of the China-Austria Ice and Snow Culture Carnival commenced on Tuesday in Lingchuan county, Jincheng, marking another significant chapter in international cultural exchange through winter sports. Against the backdrop of Shanxi province’s picturesque Taihang Mountains, the event showcases a growing bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Julian Gale, a high-ranking official from Klagenfurt, Austria, characterized the carnival as an extraordinary experience that serves as a bridge between diverse cultures. “This event represents more than just winter sports—it’s a celebration of mutual understanding and shared values between our peoples,” Gale stated during the opening ceremonies.
The Austrian delegation emphasized the consistently productive outcomes of Sino-Austrian collaboration across multiple sectors including athletics, cultural programming, and economic development. Gale confirmed Klagenfurt’s commitment to intensifying its partnership with Shanxi province in future initiatives.
Lingchuan county, situated at the southern terminus of the Taihang Mountain range, offers unique climatic conditions and abundant ecological resources that create an ideal environment for winter tourism. The region has strategically positioned itself as a destination for ice-snow recreation and wellness tourism, capitalizing on its natural advantages.
The strengthened cooperation between Lingchuan and Austria’s Carinthia province has evolved significantly in recent years. This relationship reached a milestone in 2024 when Lingchuan established sister-city relations with Feistritz an der Gail, followed by the successful inauguration of their first joint Winter Carnival in 2025.