Giant snowmen & Greater Bay Chickens: China's viral winter icons

From healing snowmen in the icy north to cheerful mascots in the sunny south, these viral icons provide international visitors with fun, unexpected ways to experience China's regional contrasts.

"Mr. Snowman" at the 38th Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo (Photo: Xinhua)

The giant snowman at the Qunli music park in Harbin (Photo: Xinhua)

In northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, winter brings more than ice and snow—it's also snowman season. At the 38th Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, "Mr. Snowman" stands 23.8 meters tall, made from 5,000 cubic meters of snow, wearing a red top hat and scarf, with smiling eyes, arched brows, and a double thumbs-up pose. Meanwhile, the Qunli Music Park snowman rises 19 meters tall, 14 meters long, and 11 meters wide, using over 3,000 cubic meters of snow, making it another must-see winter photo spot.

(Photo: Nanfang Daily)

Far south in Guangdong Province, Xiyangyang and Lerongrong, mascots of the 15th National Games—affectionately called the Greater Bay Chickens—have taken over public spaces. From sports venues to metro stations, streets, parks, and festivals, these lively mascots capture the region's energy and charm. Soon, the Greater Bay Chickens will permanently call Guangzhou home, symbolizing the vitality, warmth, and openness of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

(Photo: Nanfang Daily)

Editor's Note: This series "From snowy landscapes to subtropical wonders: What China Travel has to offer" invites you to explore the rich diversity of China's landscapes and cultural experiences, focusing on the unique destinations in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province and south China's Guangdong Province.

From the snow-covered wonderlands and historic railway towns of the northeast to the subtropical water towns, European-style streets, and world-class theme parks of the south, each location tells a unique story and provides immersive experiences for travelers. Whether exploring centuries-old heritage, marveling at architectural diversity, or enjoying seasonal festivals and interactive attractions, this series encourages you to discover the unexpected and memorable facets of China, inviting you to embark on a journey that is both enriching and inspiring.