Ice galore in Beijing

Travellers heading to Beijing in the new year might want to stick around for one of the city's most popular festivals.

The 22nd Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival takes place between January 15th and February 29th at a site located some 80 km from the downtown district of the Chinese capital.

Visitors will be able to look at over 400 ice sculptures by the light of thousands of silk lanterns across a 160 sq km area, making for a magical atmosphere.

These sculptures include those of both people and animals, with all adhering to a particular theme - last year saw the festival display exhibits relating to the concept of 'colourful fairytales'.

The event is thought to be the largest of its kind at such a low altitude and also offers fireworks displays and activities such as ice skating and fishing, as well as skiing.

Nearby lies the Great Wall at Badaling and the Kangxi grasslands, offering potential excursion opportunities for visitors to Beijing.

For more information, check out the website of the China National Tourism Administration.

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