When people imagine visiting Shanghai, they often picture the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui or the traditional charm of the Bund. But few international travelers know that in the city’s southeastern corner lies an astonishing surprise: YongSnow Ice World (耀雪冰世界) — one of China’s largest indoor ice and snow theme parks, where sub-zero adventures meet family-friendly fun, regardless of the season.
Nestled near the shimmering shores of Dishui Lake in the Lingang New Area, YongSnow Ice World has quickly become a top destination for tourists seeking something entirely unique: the thrill of the Arctic, the spectacle of snow sculptures, and high-energy winter sports — all within reach of Shanghai’s urban heart.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with children, or exploring solo, this icy wonderland promises a refreshingly cool escape, offering a blend of cultural elements, immersive design, and scenic beauty, particularly magical in the late afternoon when the golden sunset reflects off nearby Dishui Lake.
🏔️ A Winter Fantasy in a Coastal City
YongSnow Ice World, opened in 2023, spans tens of thousands of square meters and operates year-round, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature of around -5°C to -8°C (23°F to 17.6°F). Designed as both a recreational destination and a cultural showcase, the park draws inspiration from Nordic ice traditions, Chinese winter festivals, and modern entertainment engineering.
It’s part of the greater Lingang Special Area’s tourism development, which combines ecological planning, waterfront luxury, and international leisure experiences — a model increasingly admired by urban designers around the world.
“It’s surreal walking into an icy world while it’s 30°C outside. Everything is beautiful, detailed, and surprisingly fun.”
— Lucas D., traveler from Germany
❄️ Features & Attractions: From Ice Slides to Polar Parades
YongSnow Ice World is divided into multiple themed zones, each offering distinct experiences that appeal to both kids and adults.
🧊 1. Ice Sculpture Kingdom
Marvel at towering, illuminated ice castles, intricately carved animal figures, and scenes from Chinese mythology — all sculpted by world-class ice artists. The artistry reflects a blend of Chinese folklore and Western fairy tale charm, creating a cultural fusion that delights visitors from around the world.
🛷 2. Snow Play & Toboggan Slides
Enjoy snowball fights, build snowmen, or race down multi-lane toboggan runs — all safely monitored and suitable for visitors of all ages. Equipment is provided, and Western travelers particularly appreciate the attention to cleanliness, organization, and safety.
⛷️ 3. Beginner Ski & Snowboarding Area
Perfect for first-timers, YongSnow offers gentle ski slopes, instructors, and rental gear for a quick winter sports experience — no mountains or prior skill required.
🎭 4. Frozen Performance Stage
Throughout the day, there are themed live shows featuring acrobats, dancers, and musical performances inspired by winter celebrations from both East and West — from Lunar New Year stories to Santa Claus and ice queens.
🏨 Nearby Luxury & Lakeside Charm
YongSnow Ice World is just a short walk from the northeastern shore of Dishui Lake, where visitors can find four-star lakeside hotels with stunning waterfront views. Some hotel rooms offer balconies right over the water, and guests frequently pair a day of snowy fun with a relaxing evening by the lake.
A popular itinerary for tourists includes:
-
A morning at YongSnow Ice World
-
Afternoon boat rides or café visits along Dishui Lake
-
Evening strolls along the northeastern shore, where the sunset paints the lake in gold, especially on clear days
“The combination of winter fun and a lakeside sunset was magical. The hotel felt luxurious yet calm, and the view was stunning.”
— Amelia K., visitor from Canada
🧭 Getting There & Travel Tips
-
Location: Near Dishui Lake, Lingang New Area, Pudong, Shanghai
-
Metro Access: Line 16 to Dishui Lake Station, then take a taxi or shuttle to the ice world
-
Open Year-Round: Suitable for all seasons — even during hot Shanghai summers
-
Language Support: English signage and bilingual staff available in most areas
-
Clothing Provided: Thick coats, gloves, and snow boots are available for free or low rental fees at the entrance
🎨 Cultural Themes & Human Design
One of the most impressive aspects of YongSnow is how it merges Western and Chinese winter culture. Visitors will see familiar icons like reindeer, polar bears, and winter palaces, alongside Chinese dragons sculpted in ice, lantern-inspired lighting, and ice carvings of mythological figures like Nezha and the Monkey King.
This cultural blend creates an educational and visual journey for Western guests, providing deeper insight into how China interprets and localizes winter traditions in a global context.
“It was fascinating to see traditional Chinese mythology told through ice. It’s not just a theme park — it’s a work of cultural art.”
— James W., tourist from the UK
🍴 Food & Facilities
Inside and around the park, visitors can find:
-
Hot drinks and snacks, including Western-style coffee and Chinese winter treats like roasted sweet potatoes
-
Restaurants nearby serving hotpot, dumplings, or international fare
-
Souvenir shops with themed merchandise, such as snow globes, scarves, and handcrafted ice art
Family-friendly services like baby changing areas, locker rentals, and wheelchair access make the venue accessible for all travelers.
💬 What Tourists Are Saying
“This wasn’t on our original itinerary, but we’re so glad we came. It’s a wonderful break from traditional sightseeing and perfect for families.”
— Karen and David, family from New York
“The balance of fun, culture, and beauty here is rare. And ending the day by Dishui Lake with a cocktail? Just perfect.”
— Jean-Paul C., traveler from France
YongSnow Ice World is more than a novelty — it’s an immersive journey into a world of snow and imagination, right in the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. For foreign travelers, especially from North America and Europe, it offers a refreshing change of pace, where icy adventures meet cultural creativity and lakeside tranquility.
Whether you’re escaping the summer heat, seeking family-friendly entertainment, or simply want to explore a side of Shanghai few outsiders ever see, YongSnow Ice World — together with the golden serenity of Dishui Lake — is a destination that promises laughter, wonder, and a whole new way to experience China.
