China’s “Ice City,” Harbin, is a fairytale wonderland for people who love winter. From incredible ice sculptures to a historic Russian influence and tasty dumplings, it’s a fantastic place to get a culture and activity fix.
So whether you’re here for the incredible Ice Festival or to explore its picturesque historic neighborhoods, Harbin won’t disappoint.
Here are all the best things to see and do, and don’t miss my travel tips at the end!
Top Attractions in Harbin
1. Saint Sophia Cathedral
This landmark Russian Orthodox church, recognizable by its vivid green dome, highlights the city’s Russian past. Now, it’s used as an architecture and culture center.
Travel Tip: Go early in the morning to skip the crowds and get some great photos in that morning light!
2. Zhongyang Pedestrian Street
Perfect for anyone looking to shop and eat, this European-style road is home to old buildings, Russian bakeries, and stores hawking regional foods like Harbin sausages.
Eat some local ice cream— even in the middle of winter! Unique experience when it’s freezing out.
3. Sun Island Scenic Area
An easy trip from the city center, Sun Island features giant snow sculptures in the winter and tranquil parks and lakes in the summer.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike in the summer or a horse-drawn sled in winter for a better way of getting around.
4. Harbin Polarland
Harbin Polarland is ideal for those visiting with kids as well as anyone who is an animal enthusiast. You’ll get close to all kinds of Arctic animals like polar bears, penguins, and beluga whales.
Don’t miss the polar bear and beluga whale shows here for an amazing time.
5. Volga Manor
A Russian village-style resort in Harbin, where tourists can see Russian wooden architecture and experience Russian music.
Travel Tip: Spend the night for a more cultural immersion and traditional Russian meals.
6. Yabuli International Ski Resort
If you’re a ski fanatic or enthusiast, head to the largest ski resort in China, Yabuli. It’s a three-hour drive from Harbin and has runs for everyone.
Pre-book your ski pass and accommodations before your arrival, as it can get crowded during the high season.
Must-Try Food in Harbin
1. Harbin Red Sausage
This famous snack is beloved by residents of Harbin. Blending Chinese and Russian flavors, it’s like a smoked sausage, but spicy.
The hearty red sausage is typically either served with bread or sold as a street food snack.
Where to Try It:
You’ll see Harbin Red Sausage throughout Harbin street stalls, particularly near Harbin’s Central Street.
To get this as part of a dish, head to a local market such as the Harbin Railway Station Food Street so you can enjoy some freshly made, steaming sausage.
2. Siberian Hot Pot
The freezing winters of Harbin necessitate a traditional comfort dish, and nothing hits the spot here than a hot pot.
In this dish, you’ll find a meat-and-vegetable soup filled with spices made for sharing among friends.
Where to Try It:
The most popular places to eat hot pot are “Lao Harbin Hot Pot” and a chain simply named “Yunnan Hot Pot, ” which has a homey vibe and very friendly staff.
You can order lots of variations of this dish throughout the city, particularly in local restaurants in the winter months.
3. Frozen Fruit
A fun and unique speciality from Harbin, frozen fruit is a delicious and refreshing street food to munch on during the winter.
Grapes, strawberries, and even entire apples are frozen and sold. It’s a fun and tasty treat to nibble as you make your way through the snow-covered streets.
Where to Try It:
You’ll also find street stalls on the main shopping streets and near the Ice Festivals in Harbin selling frozen fruit.
They make for a great, cold snack to enjoy while exploring the winter wonderland.
4. Ice Cream
Since Harbin is so cold, it’s strange to think about ice cream in this city, but it has a reputation for delicious ice cream.
Drawing from Russian culture, ice cream here is dense, super milky, and usually shaped like a cylinder or in a cone.
The texture and flavor is delicious and creamy — a yummy dessert, even when it’s freezing out.
Where to Try It:
The “Harbin Ice Cream Factory” has all the flavors you can try while wandering around Harbin.
Freshly made ice cream comes in multiple flavors, and during the winter, you’ll even find vendors of traditional Russian-style cones.
Festival Activities in Harbin
1. Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival
Time: Late December to February
Highlights: Enormous ice statues, light up castles, winter sports, and entertainment.
Festival Tips:
Visit at night for the best lighting effects.
Wear thermals and bring hand warmers to prevent frostbite from the cold.
Buy tickets in advance to skip the line at the entrance.
2. Harbin Summer Music Festival
Time: Every two years in July
Highlights: Classical and folk music concerts with musicians from around the world and China.
Check the calendar to make sure you don’t miss the acts you want to see.
Come early for best open-air-seating options.
Bring a light jacket as summer evenings can get chilly.
3. Harbin Beer Festival
Time: Every August
Highlights: Part beer festival, part crafts fair, this local and international celebration features music and food.
Festival Tips:
Try Harbin Beer, the city’s famous local brew.
Go with friends for a fun (and loud) experience.
Drink responsibly and stay hydrated.
Best Time to Visit Harbin
Winter (December-February): For the Ice Festival, skiing, and winter scenery. Temperatures will be below freezing so make sure to layer up!
Spring (March to May): A quieter period with fewer crowds and parks full of blossoming flowers.
Summer (June to August): Perfect for all the outdoor activities you want to experience in Harbin, such as the Harbin Beer Festival and Sun Island’s parks and gardens.
Fall (September to November): Cool temperatures, fewer tourists, iconic yellow leaves, and ideal weather for shooting photos.
How to Get to Harbin
By Air: The Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB) is connected to most major domestic and international cities.
Getting There by Train: Harbin has a number of high-speed train connections from cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.
By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby provinces, but trains are the better option.
Travel Tips for Harbin
1. Dress warmly in winter
During the winter, temperatures can reach -30°C (-22°F). Bring warm clothes, gloves, and boots.
2. Accommodation tip
Rooms are at a premium during the Ice Festival so book in advance.
3. Take public transportation
Harbin is easy to get around by bus and metro, and taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.
4. Carry cash or mobile payment apps
Most people pay via WeChat Pay and Alipay, so be sure to download these apps. Credit cards aren’t always usable.
5. Learn some Chinese phrases
English is not widely spoken, so a translation app or basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful.
FAQ
1. How many days should I spend in Harbin?
You can comfortably visit the main attractions in 3-4 days.
2. Is Harbin safe for tourists?
Yes, overall Harbin is a safe city but, as with all destinations, keep an eye on your valuables and avoid unlit areas after dark.
3. Is Harbin expensive?
It’s quite cheap (especially compared to cities like Beijing and Shanghai), though be prepared to pay more during the Ice Festival.
Conclusion
Regardless, I think Harbin is a must-visit city. It has everything: history, culture, and jaw-dropping winter scenery.
Whether you visit Harbin for the Ice Festival, the Russian influences, or the food, you won’t easily forget the city.
Just make sure you visit at the right time, pack your warmest clothes, and prepare to be amazed by Harbin’s wintry wonder.