Harbin, the capital city of Heilongjiang in China’s northernmost region, has been announced as the host city for the 9th Asian Winter Games in 2025.

During the 42nd Olympic Council of Asia General Assembly in Bangkok, Thailand, Harbin’s bid presentation received unanimous approval from delegates. Known for its rich history of hosting winter sports events, including the successful organization of the 3rd Asian Winter Games in 1996, Harbin emerged as the favored choice. The previous edition of the Asian Winter Games took place in Sapporo, Japan, in 2017.

Leading the Harbin bid team were prominent figures such as Chinese Olympic Committee Vice President and IOC Member Yu Zaiqing, Vice Governor of Heilongjiang Province Han Shengjian, Mayor of Harbin Zhang Qixiang, and Winter Olympic gold medalist speed skater Zhang Hong.

Delegates from 45 National Olympic Committees in attendance at the OCA (Olympic Council of Asia) General Assembly were impressed by Harbin’s extensive experience hosting major international winter sports events. Yu Zaiqing expressed complete confidence in Harbin’s ability to deliver an outstanding Asian Winter Games and foster the development of winter sports in China and across Asia. The Chinese Olympic Committee pledged its complete support to Harbin’s endeavors.

“We have excellent winter sports facilities in Harbin, which has previously hosted several events, including the 3rd Asian Winter Games in 1996, the 10th National Winter Games of China in 2003, and the 24th World University Games in 2009,” remarked COC Vice President Yu Zaiqing in a press release.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Zhang Hong, a native of Harbin and gold medalist in the women’s 1,000m speed skating event at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, expressed confidence in her hometown’s ability to provide an excellent platform for athletes to showcase their skills in 2025.

“I’m a native of Harbin, and this is a city of Olympic champions. I’m confident that my hometown will provide ideal conditions for athletes to achieve their dreams,” Zhang said.

In her presentation, Zhang highlighted that 16 sports facilities would undergo upgrades in preparation for the grand event in 2025. She also emphasized the presence of top-notch infrastructure, including five-star accommodations and a well-established transportation system with an international airport. Harbin’s status as a UNESCO-recognized Music City further adds to its appeal.

Looking ahead, the 10th Asian Winter Games are scheduled to take place in Trojena, Saudi Arabia, in 2029.

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