1 hour direct from Zhengzhou! This hidden gem surprisingly offers both skiing and hot springs in winter!
Less than an hour's drive from Zhengzhou, I discovered a seriously underrated family winter wonderland! By day, it's a thrilling snowy paradise; by night, a warm hot spring haven, perfectly fulfilling the whole family's winter dreams in one stop!
❄️ A perfect one-day itinerary of "Ice and Fire"
Morning · Snowy fun: Head straight to Xinmi Xuehua Mountain Ski Resort. It is one of the larger ski resorts in the Central Plains region, featuring beginner and intermediate slopes and a dedicated children's snow play area. Even if you're a complete beginner, you can hire an instructor to learn with your kids—from tentative steps to smooth skiing, the sense of achievement is incredible! Besides skiing, activities like snow tubing and snowmobiles will have the kids screaming with joy.
Afternoon · Mountain stroll: No need to rush off after exercising. Take the cable car up the mountain (subject to availability) for expansive views from the summit. The winter mountains have a pure beauty; walking slowly along the trails and breathing the crisp air, you can discover unique ice formations and frost-covered scenery.
Evening · Hot spring healing: Muscles sore after skiing? The best remedy is right downhill! Xinmi is famous for its hot springs, so drive directly to a nearby hot spring hotel. Soaking in the steaming natural hot springs under the starry sky instantly melts away the day's fatigue—this is the winter enjoyment you deserve.
🏡 Stay in the scenery: Comfortable lodging near the ski resort
Zhengzhou Fuxi Mountain Tourist Resort · Yunding Qiongju Homestay: Located within the Fuxi Mountain Red Stone Forest Scenic Area, this stylish stone house homestay offers great privacy, some rooms with private hot springs, about a 20-minute drive to Xuehua Mountain.
Xinmi Chengyude Hotel: A well-established local high-end hotel with comprehensive facilities and its own hot spring center, ideal for families and a seamless rest spot after skiing.
Zhengzhou Fuxi Mountain Cliff Hotel: Perched on a cliff with magnificent views, the hotel itself is a scenic attraction, perfect for families seeking a unique experience.
Zhengzhou Xinyue Wenshe Hotel (Xinmi Branch): A cost-effective quality choice with fresh, clean decor and spacious rooms, suitable for a simple and comfortable overnight stay.
🍜 Energy refuel station: Must-try authentic Xinmi flavors
Skiing is physically demanding, so great food is a must! Xinmi cuisine is full of rustic warmth:
Xinmi Stir-fried Shrimp Tails: Spicy, numbing, and fragrant, a local late-night favorite; mild spice options available.
Juanjian: Meat wrapped in an egg skin and steamed, tender and soft, loved by all ages.
Old Town Crispy Pork: Delicious whether stewed in soup or deep-fried crispy.
We recommend finding local restaurants around the ski resort or in Xinmi city to taste authentic farmhouse flavors.
📌 Pre-trip must-know · Efficient play checklist
Ticket info: Ski tickets (including basic gear) are recommended to be purchased in advance on platforms like Trip.com, often cheaper than buying on-site. Be sure to check weekday, weekend, and holiday prices.
Gear advice: The ski resort provides boots, skis, and poles. Be sure to bring or rent ski goggles, waterproof gloves, and helmets (especially important for kids). Pack extra socks and pants for children as they may get wet while playing.
Transportation: Driving with navigation to "Xinmi Xuehua Mountain Ski Resort" is the most convenient. From Zhengzhou, take the Zhengshao-Luo Expressway, exit at Xinmi West; the road conditions are good. There are also tourist shuttle buses, but schedules should be checked in advance.
Time planning: It’s best to plan a full day or a two-day, one-night trip. Weekends are busy, so try to arrive early to enjoy the pristine morning slopes.
This "skiing + hot spring" power combo perfectly solves the conflict between kids wanting to play in the snow and adults wanting to relax. Escape the city briefly and enjoy a vibrant yet warm weekend in the mountains!