Zhibo Tian , Lin Chen , Qiang Zhang
DOI:10.46695/ASCS.6.2.1
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examines how the 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games (AWG) fostered synergy with regional sports tourism and evaluates its driving role in tourism development, specifically in cold-climate regions. METHOD Combining theories of event legacy, tourism destination competitiveness, and regional synergy, this study employs a mixed-methods approach to analyze the relevant economic impacts, resource utilization efficiency, and destination branding outcomes of the 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games (AWG). RESULT The 2025 Harbin AWG generated immediate boosts in tourism through surges in hospitality and catering services and cultural tourism consumption, while also stimulating long-term infrastructure investments that will enhance employment and industrial modernization. However, persistent challenges remain, such as seasonal demand fluctuations and the underutilization of post-event infrastructure. CONCLUSION Strategically integrating policy coordination, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and digital innovation is essential for transforming "cold resources" into sustainable economic assets. This study advances the theoretical framework for understanding event-driven tourism in cold regions, providing policymakers with actionable pathways to maximize event legacies while mitigating seasonal risks and ensuring year-round competitiveness
Key Words
Mega-sports Events, Sports Tourism, Tourism Destination Competitiveness, Regional Synergy 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games