Harbin Ice and Snow World in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest ice and snow park in the world on Friday. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

At the 2024 China Ice and Snow Tourism Development Forum held on Friday in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, Harbin Ice and Snow World was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest ice and snow park, with an area of 816,682.5 square meters.

The park, which combines ice, snow, sound and lights, officially opened for its 25th consecutive year. Tourists can marvel at more than 1,000 works of art made of more than 250,000 cubic meters of ice and snow or participate in numerous activities, including a 521-meter ice slide, the longest built at the park to date.

A giant Ferris wheel in the shape of a snowflake has been built to provide a unique experience in the dazzling world after dark.

Harbin Ice and Snow World in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest ice and snow park in the world on Friday. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

The 40th Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival — the city's annual winter gala — kicked off at the park, welcoming tourists from around the world.

"Heilongjiang has plentiful ice and snow resources. It is also the birthplace of China's modern ice and snow industry," Heilongjiang Governor Liang Huiling said at the opening ceremony. "Currently, Heilongjiang is vigorously developing cultural tourism and carrying out activities to promote the ice and snow economy."

The park's popularity has aided the development of the whole province's snow and ice economy, she added.

Harbin Ice and Snow World in Harbin, Heilongjiang province. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)