Harbin Travel Guide

Chinese Name: 哈尔滨 (hā ěr bīn)
Population: 9,515,000
Area: 53,100 square kilometers (20,502 square miles)
Location: in the south of Heilongjiang Province, northeastern China
Administrative Division: 9 districts (Daoli, Nangang, Daowai, Pingfang, Songbei, Xiangfang, Hulan, Acheng, Shuangcheng); 2 city-level counties (Shangzhi, Wuchang); 7 counties (Yilan, Fangzheng, Binxian, Bayan, Mulan, Tonghe, Yanshou)
Area Code: 0451
Zip Code: 150000
GDP (2019): CNY 524.94 billion (USD 76.09 billion)

Harbin, as the capital and transportation center of Heilongjiang Province, is the largest city in the north of Northeast China. It is located in the south of Heilongjiang Province, bordering Mudanjiang and Qitaihe to the east, Yichun and Jiamusi to the north, Suihua and Daqing to the west, Changchun of Jilin Province to the south. Harbin is a must-see place when you visit northeast China. The city's rich Russian-style buildings and the beautiful snow sceneries are two important factors to attract tourists. A great number of Russian, Baroque and Byzantine styles buildings are left due to special history and geographical location. In winter, Harbin turned into a breathtaking ice city when the huge ice sculptures scattered in the parks and scenic areas are illuminated by colorful lights. In addition, skating, skiing, snow carriage and other kinds of snow sports are definitely worth experiencing. However, Harbin has more charm than that. All kinds of delicacies including Russian food, Northeast China stew, Harbin sausage and Harbin beer will satisfy your appetites.

You may like:
Top 10 Biggest Cities in China by Area
China Population by City: List of 50 Most Populated Cities

Being the famous 'Ice City', Harbin attracts visitors from home and abroad by the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival it helds each year. It is a happy carnival which provides visitors a whole world of ice and snow. The festival usually begins from January and last for over one month. The best collections of ice artworks are mainly exhibited in the following venues:

Ice and Snow World
Sun Island Scenic Area
Zhaolin Park
Ice Lantern Garden Party
Yabuli International Ski Resort
 

Central Street

Ice and Snow World

Bank of Songhua River in Winter

The economy and culture of Harbin achieved unprecedented prosperity at that time and the city gradually grew into a famous international commercial port. Assimilating external culture, the city created its unique and exotic cityscape. The majestic St. Sophia Cathedral and Central Street each built in a European style have the effect of bringing you into an 'eastern Moscow'. Even though you are sure to be attracted by various exotic buildings, the Dragon Tower which embodies the wisdom of the Chinese people is a must on your journey.

Besides these rich cultural heritages, this city is favored with beautiful natural scenery. Based on meandering Songhua River and subject to severe low temperatures in winter, the city boasts a unique ice and snow culture. So, it is also called the 'Ice City'. Each winter fantastic sculptures created from snow and ice, ice lanterns and exciting sporting events attract thousands of visitors from home and abroad. The cool summers make the city highly popular as a natural summer resort. It is widely accepted that the Sun Island Scenic Resort is the best choice during a sweltering summer.

Other Scenic Spots:

Harbin Ice Festival Tour: 4 Days city visiting including Sunisland Snow Sculpture, St. Sophia Cathedral, Centre Street, Grand World of Snow, etc
More China Tour Packages