Since December 10, the roar of snow-making machines has filled the air around the stadium that was built for the 2008 Olympic Games.
After having been the centre of the world’s attention during the internationally televised games, the stadium has had a difficult time building a second career for itself. The architectural jewel is rarely busy, seeing only the occasional tourist who cares to admire the grand amphitheatre.
Now, with an investment of $7.3 million, the stadium is being converted into a mini indoor ski centre. Doors are being kept open late during the holidays to allow for maximum visibility during the tourist season.
In order to cover the interior’s 50 000 square meters with snow, more than 25 000 cubic meters of water must be chilled. Everyone is hoping that the snow will last as long as possible, however, the temperature in Beijing rarely dips below zero degrees.