The winter fun started when the 21st Beijing Yanqing Ice and Snow Tourist Festival was launched at the Shijinglong Ski Entertainment Resort on the outskirts of Beijing on Sunday.

Xinhua News Agency on Monday reported that this year's festival focuses on relaxing in a world of ice and snow. As well as participating in the traditional ski program, visitors can feast their eyes on dazzling ice sculptures, relax their bodies in a hot spa and treat their taste buds to the unique Yanqing bean curb hot pot.

The festival will run for 80 days until the end of February.
 
(CRI December 12, 2006)