Climbers make their way up a frozen waterfall on Jan. 9 at the Huyu Natural Scenic Area in Beijing’s Changping district. Ice climbing has become popular across China in recent years as more venues open and equipment becomes easier to find. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A staff member grounds ice climber Kui Helei by rope at the rink on Jan. 9. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

Kui Helei climbs the ice cliff face to build anchors for others. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

Climbers hack steps into the ice using pickaxes. Professional gear is essential for ice climbing. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A visitor wearing boots fitted out with crampons climbs the waterfall. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

Ice climbing shoes like these can sell for over 1,000 yuan a pair. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A climber lays out their ice climbing gear at the rink. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

The rink has attracted both ice climbing enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A young child tackles the ice waterfall on Jan. 9 in Beijing. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

Visitors capture their ice climbing experience at the rink online via video link. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A climber navigates the ice waterfall. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

A staff member prepares to mend the ice by filling in cracks on the surface with water. The process lasts until the rink reopens the following day. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin

The artificial waterfall is surrounded by mountains in the Huyu Natural Scenic Area in Beijing. Many enthusiasts have visited since the rink, with a 40-meter-high climbing area, opened on Jan. 1. Photo: Ding Gang/Caixin