The Southern Small Potato – Ice & Snow adventure in Harbin

By the end of 2023 and the beginning of 2024, the popularity of winter tourism in Northeast China soared. Harbin Ice and Snow World and major hot spring centers were filled with tourists from the southern regions who came with their suitcases. Harbin suddenly became the most popular place in the country, attracting numerous southern tourists who wanted to experience the unfamiliar world of ice and snow. This surge in popularity also gave rise to two trending internet terms, Southern Small Potato and Guangxi Little Tangerines.

1. “Southern Small Potatoes”

“Southern Small Potatoes” refers to southern tourists who are lured to Northeast China for its snowy landscapes. These tourists, often afraid of the cold, wear light-colored down jackets and cute hats. They sit on their suitcases with their feet dangling, hence calling themselves “potatoes.” This nickname quickly became popular online and even evolved into terms like “Potato Princess” or “Little Golden Potato.”

2. “Guangxi Little Tangerines”

“Guangxi Little Tangerines” refers to a group of eleven adorable children aged 3 to 6 from a kindergarten in Nanning, Guangxi. Accompanied by three teachers, they embarked on an educational trip to Harbin. Dressed uniformly in bright orange down jackets, hats, and blue pants, they pushed enormous suitcases, capturing the attention of onlookers at the airport. This charming sight quickly gained popularity online. Additionally, as Guangxi is known for producing sugar tangerines, netizens humorously referred to them as “Guangxi Little Tangerines” fearlessly exploring Harbin.

3. Significant Occurrences

These events rapidly gained popularity online, with significant occurrences as follows:

1. On January 7, 2024, media accounts such as People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, Jilin Radio and Television Station, and China Jilin Network jointly live-streamed the educational trip of the “Guangxi Little Tangerines” in Jilin, known as the “Frosty Rime City.” By 14:40, the live-stream had been viewed by over 3.5 million people. By the end of the broadcast at 18:00, the total number of viewers exceeded 5 million.
2. On January 7, 2024, Xinhua News Agency’s official Tiktok China account launched the hashtag “Yanbian Welcomes Little Tangerines to Play,” which went viral across the internet and reached the top 5 trending topics on Tiktok China, accumulatingover 60 million views.

An Adventurous Encounter with Ice and Snow for the Southern Small Potato

As the CEO of MONU SPORTS, the Southern Small Potato, accompanied by my beloved MONU helmet and professional skiing gear, embarked on my first journey to the magical land of Northeast China.

Drawn by the popularity of Harbin Ice and Snow World and the warm hospitality of the people in Northeast China, this Southern Small Potato of mine began my Northeast skiing adventure, not only to experience the charm of ice and snow but also to seek the adventure and challenges deep within my heart.

1. Experiencing the Wonders of Ice and Snow for the Southern Small Potato

The snow in Northeast China is as pure as jade, as if it were a gift from Mother Nature herself. I put on my skis and stood on top of a snow-covered slope, my heart pounding with excitement. With my first descent, I nervously gripped the ski poles in my hands, and my feet trembled slightly. As my body leaned forward, I swiftly slid down the hill. The wind whistled in my ears, and the scenery before me was like a dream. The sensation of speed and freedom that I had never experienced before made me feel as if I were at one with the heavens and the earth. I finally understood what a true ice and snow adventure meant.

2.Cultural Differences between the Southern Small Potato and the Northern Sweet Potato

The warm hospitality of the people in Northeast China made me feel the warmth of home. They spoke in a thick Northeastern accent, with loud and hearty voices. Sitting around a warm kang (traditional heated bed) and savoring authentic Northeastern cuisine, I felt as if I had traveled to another world. I even learned some simple expressions in the local dialect, such as “gaga tian” meaning very sweet and “gaga leng” meaning very cold. These straightforward and sincere expressions made me appreciate the straightforwardness and sincerity of the people in Northeast China.

3. The Southern Small Potato‘s Discovering Natural Beauty

The snowscapes of Northeast China are like poetry and paintings, breathtakingly beautiful. Standing at the top of a mountain, overlooking the snow-covered world, I couldn’t help but marvel at the wonders of Mother Nature. The sunlight sprinkled on the snow, reflecting a dazzling light. Distant mountains appeared and disappeared, as if veiled in a mysterious mist. In such a picturesque setting, I felt as if I were in a pure fairy tale world. I fully enjoyed the magnificence of this snowy realm, experiencing the tranquility and serenity bestowed by Mother Nature.

4. The Self-Challenge of the Southern Small Potato

Skiing was a completely new challenge for me.

As I stepped into the ski resort for the first time, everything before my eyes seemed so novel and exciting. I looked at those people gliding freely on the ski slopes, and I couldn’t help but feel envious. However, when I put on my ski suit, wore my MONU SPORTS ski helmet, and placed one foot on the ski, standing on the snow slope, my heart was filled with unease.

1) The Southern Small Potato keeps falling

In the first few steps, I managed to maintain my balance, but as the speed increased, I began to wobble. Suddenly, my foot slipped, and I lost my balance, falling solidly onto the snow. At that moment, the people around me cast concerned glances, and I felt extremely embarrassed.

“It’s okay, everyone falls when they first start skiing,” a coach came over to comfort me. Under his guidance, I stood up again. But with each attempt, it seemed like I was reliving that moment of falling. Watching others glide effortlessly on the ski slopes, as natural as fish in water, my anxiety grew even stronger.

The more I fell, the more my backside started to ache. I even began to doubt whether skiing was suitable for me. However, just as I was about to give up, the coach demonstrated a simple technique to me. He told me that skiing was not only about speed and technique but also required patience and balance.

2）The Southern Small Potato learns how to ski

Encouraged by the coach, I regained my determination. I tried again and again, even though I kept falling, but I gradually found the sense of balance. Finally, after countless attempts, I successfully glided down a section of the ski slope. At that moment, I felt an immense joy and a sense of accomplishment.

Although my first skiing experience was filled with embarrassment and frustration, it also taught me the importance of perseverance and courage. Skiing is not just a sport; it is a process of challenging oneself. As long as you don’t give up and bravely face the difficulties, you can ultimately achieve your goals.

This adventurous encounter with ice and snow has ignited a fire within me, inspiring me to continue exploring new horizons and embracing the unknown. It has taught me that stepping out of my comfort zone and facing challenges head-on can lead to incredible growth and self-discovery.

5.Unlocking a New Skill – Skiing

This skiing trip to Northeast China has brought me abundant rewards. I have not only experienced the enchantment of ice and snow, embraced cultural differences, and discovered the beauty of nature but also challenged myself. Every detail has become a precious memory in my life. As I look back on this journey, my heart is filled with gratitude and awe. I am grateful for the beautiful ice and snow world that Mother Nature has bestowed upon us and inwhich I had the opportunity to immerse myself. I am in awe of the people of Northeast China, their warmth, and the unique culture they embrace. Most importantly, I am grateful for the personal growth I experienced through the challenges and triumphs of skiing.

As the Southern Small Potato, I may have started with limited skiing skills, but with determination and the support of others, I overcame obstacles and achieved a sense of accomplishment. This experience has instilled in me the belief that no matter how small or inexperienced one may be, with the right mindset and perseverance, anything is possible.

Now, with the memories of my Northeast skiing adventure etched in my heart, I am ready to embark on new adventures, both on and off the slopes. I will carry the lessons I learned and the spirit of exploration with me, embracing every opportunity to challenge myself and create unforgettable memories.

So, here’s to more adventures, more encounters with ice and snow, and to the Southern Small Potato continuing to grow, explore, and inspire others to step out bravely into the world of possibilities!

Conclusion

This trip to Northeast China for skiing has been incredibly rewarding. I have experienced the enchantment of ice and snow, embraced cultural differences, discovered natural beauty. I have also challenged myself. Every detail has become a precious memory in my life. As I reflect on this journey, my heart is filled with gratitude and awe. I am grateful for the stunning ice and snow world given to us by Mother Nature. I am amazed by the fearless and relentless human spirit that explores it.
What’s even more thrilling is that our company, MONU SPORTS, produces over 90% of the ski helmets worn here. This achievement fills me with a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

In the future, MONU SPORTS team to forge ahead. Let us make MONU SPORTS ski helmets cover all of China and even the world.