The Swiss Chalet opens in Beijing on December 12, 2024. Photo: Courtesy of Swiss Embassy in China

 
Located in Houhai area, one of Beijing's most idyllic scenic areas featuring a lake view, the Swiss Chalet officially opened on December 12. The Swiss Chalet is an aesthetically designed pop-up bar, and also a venue for activities relating to Switzerland's winter sports and culinary culture. 

The wooden chalet is like a pearl decorating the shore of the Houhai lake. Built on the foundation of a Chinese octagonal pavilion, it merges with Swiss architectural and interior design elements. 

As a program that is dedicated to bringing Chinese visitors to Switzerland's renowned winter traditions, the chalet serves modern Swiss cuisines such as Älplermagronen and cocktails that were inspired by Switzerland's alpine spirits. 

Other than gourmet foods, cultural activities including Swiss film screenings, classic and pop music live shows will also be held at the chalet. Since both China and Switzerland share rich winter sports tradition, the chalet will also become a venue for hosting tourism programs that relate to winter activities like skiing and ice skating.

Such diverse agendas serve as a symbol of China and Switzerland's exchanged lifestyles. They engage Chinese visitors closer to Switzerland's "après-ski culture."
Originated in the Swiss Alps, the après-ski culture is a cherished tradition passed down through generations of skiers and snowboarders in Switzerland. During winter in Swiss, countless slopes across the country's mountain ranges offer opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The Swiss après-ski is not just a way to unwind after a day on the slopes but also a beloved part of the country's winter legacies. 

Jürg Burri, Swiss Ambassador to China, has attended the opening event of the Swiss Chalet. He noted that the newly opened chalet is a platform for cultural exchanges between Switzerland and China, and it also marks the beginning of a series of cultural sharing events between the two countries to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025.

The chalet program was initiated by the Embassy of Switzerland in China, in collaboration with Switzerland Tourism. It will open until January 19.