How to Plan a Trip in Harbin
World-renowned for its Ice and Snow Sculptures Festival, Harbin is a charming city in the northeast of China. It is one of the most sought after winter vacation destinations in China. A three-day or four-day tour of Harbin is typical.
First time? Sun Island Tourist Area and The Ice and Snow World are must-go places. Going skiing is highly recommended. Attend the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, which is usually held from January 5th and lasts for a month, to experience the best of the snow culture of Harbin.
Interesting things for children? A series of cartoon characters show up during the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. The ski resorts cater for children and have professional assistance.
Table of Attractions
First of all, choose the attractions you want to visit.
| Attraction | Hours from Harbin City | Type of Attraction | Hours for a visit | Location | Time of day | (Entry) cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Island Tourist Spot | 0.5 | Park | 2 | On the north bank of the Songhua River | Daytime | 30 yuan, 150 yuan for the Snow Sculpture Exposition in the park |
| The Ice and Snow World | 0.5 | 1 | On the west side of Sun Island, Songbei District | Daytime or evening | ||
| Ice Lantern World | 0 | 0.5 | In Zhaolin Park, 74 Youyi Road | Evening | 180 yuan | |
| Siberian Tiger Park | 0.5 | 1 | Next to Sun Island, Songbei District | Daytime | 90 yuan | |
| Harbin Polar Land | 0.5 | Aquarium | 2 | 3 Taiyang Avenue, Songbei District | Daytime | 130 yuan |
| Jile Temple | 0 | Temple | 0.5 – 1 | At the end of Dongdazhi Street, Nangang District | Daytime | 10 yuan |
| Heilongjiang Provincial Museum | 0 | Museum | 1 | 46 Hongjun Street | Daytime | Free |
| St. Sofia Orthodox Church | 0 | Church | 0.5 – 1 | 88 Toulong Street, Daoli District | Daytime or evening | 20 yuan |
| Central Street | 0 | Shopping | Daoli District | Daytime or evening | free | |
| Yabuli Ski Resort | 3 | Ski resort | Yabuli County, Shangzhi | Daytime | ||
| Erlongshan Ski Resort | 1.5 | 50km in the suburb of Harbin | Daytime |
Tours to Enjoy the Ice and Snow
Enjoying the Ice Wonderland is one of the essential things to do while traveling in Harbin. Click the links below to find out more about our Ice Wonderland tours.
| Tour | Dates Available | Duration | US$ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harbin's Ice Wonderland Tour | January 5 to February 25 | 3 Days | 499 |
| Harbin's Ice Wonderland Exploration | From January 5 to February 25 | 4 Days | 749 |
Go Skiing!
Skiing is a must-do and highly recommended while traveling in Harbin, as the ski resorts there are excellent not only for scenery, but also for exercise and fun. Spending half a day, a day or even more has been found very enjoyable. The ski resorts in Harbin provides professional instruction and equipment for novices and experienced skiers.
See our skiing tours at China's Top 5 Ski Resorts.
| Tours | Available | Duration | US$ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ice Wonderland Experience & Short Ski Tour Around Harbin | From January 5 to February 25 | 4 Days | 749 |
| Harbin Sights & Yabuli Ski Adventure | From January 5 to February 25 | 6 Days | 1039 |
| Skiing Break at Yabuli Ski Resort | From January 5 to February 25 | 4 Days | 649 |
| Harbin Ice World and Yabuli Skiing Tour from Beijing | From January 5 to February 25 | 5 Days | 1359 |
| Harbin Sights & Train to Yabuli Ski Resort | From January 5 to February 25 | 6 Days | 759 |
| Luxurious Skiing Experience at Yabuli Sun Mountain Ski Resort | You choose | 4 Days | 399 |
Food
Because Harbin is located in the northeast near Russia, Korea and Mongolia, the food in Harbin is influenced by these countries. Not only is the local food popular here, but so are the foreign dishes and snacks.
Some exotic and charming foreign restaurants have won great popularity. Check out our information on the food and restaurants in Harbin.
Snow Sculptures during Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival
Festival
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (usually from Jan 5th to Feb 28th every year)is famous all over the world. Thousands of visitors come to Harbin every year to appreciate the magnificent snow sculptures, which look more gorgeous under the lights at night.
Shopping
Local souvenirs and some Russian products can be found on some shopping streets and in some large malls in Harbin. Click here for more about shopping in Harbin.
Nighttime shopping recommended: The buildings on the shopping streets, such as Central Avenue and Guogeli Street, are exotic and charming, especially at night. Shopping and enjoying the night scenery can be very relaxing and interesting.
Weather
Take note of the weather conditions for your time of travel. Preparing thermal clothes in winter. See detailed monthly weather information for Harbin.
Final Preparation
Before making a trip, check the time and locations of the festivals and attractions. Some attractions and restaurants may need reservations.
Arranging transport in advance can save you time and money. Transport is convenient in Harbin, but transport to the ski resorts will probably require prior consideration. See flights and train schedules for Harbin.
You can contact us for a tailor-made tour or the tours above.
After Everything is Ready, Go!
China Highlights continues to be your travel consultancy service during your tour. If you encounter difficulties or want to change your travel plans, please feel free to contact us.
Related Pages
China Highlights
- Harbin Things to Do
- Top Things to Do
- Attractions
- Shopping
- Nightlife
- Festivals
- How to Plan a Trip in Harbin
- Travel Information
- Maps
- Weather
- Transportation
- Travel Tips
- Train Schedules
- Embassies
- More about Harbin
- Harbin Facts
- History
- Harbin Food
- Harbin Restaurants
- Photos
