Harbin Travel Guide

Harbin Travel Guide

Harbin Map

Harbin Facts

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)

Ice City with Exotic Buildings

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
 

Harbin Central Street
Central Street
Harbin Ice and Snow World
Ice and Snow World
Bank of Songhua River in Winter
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
 

 Best Time to Visit Harbin

The local people in Harbin have created a very distinctive food culture which reflects the history and special geographical position of this city. However, under the influence of neighboring Russia, a number of authentic western food restaurants have been established here. This coming together of Chinese and Western flavors will definitely fulfill your appetite.
 

More info:

Shopping & Nightlife


 As of August 1st, 2015, foreign visitors from qualified countries can enjoy the 72 hours visa-free transit policy when transiting in Taiping International Airport.

Further Reading:
Top 10 Things to Do in Harbin
10 Best Cities in China for Budget Travelers
8 Interesting Places in China for Outdoor Enthusiasts

- Last updated on Nov. 14, 2023 -
Questions & Answers on Harbin Travel
Asked by kung from THAILAND | Mar. 10, 2024 23:05Reply
direct bus from Mohe Railway Station to Beiji Village
Are there direct bus from Mohe Railway Station to Beiji Village and whats time
Answers (1)
Answered by Olivia | Mar. 12, 2024 01:26
00Reply


Yes, there are two departures per day, at 08:20 and 15:20. But they may stop service in low seasons. You can also hire a car, which costs CNY200-250 for a round-trip.
Asked by Wacharaporn Kungwannakornchai from THAILAND | Feb. 26, 2024 20:20Reply
Weather in 17-31/5/2024
We'd like to Travel to Harbin, Mohe, Jilin and nearby cities, so we'd like to know the weather during 17-31/5/2024. Please give us. Thank you.
Answers (1)
Answered by Jessica | Feb. 27, 2024 19:48
00Reply


It is better to check the real-time weather forecast at that time because it is not so accurate to predict it now. Generally, the temp keeps about 10-25C in Harbin.
Asked by Helen from SINGAPORE | Jan. 17, 2024 17:41Reply
Hi, can I store my large luggage at Harbin Station for 2 days? I'm going Mohe.
If yes, please let me know how I go about doing it.
Answers (1)
Answered by Diana | Jan. 17, 2024 18:24
00Reply


There are several luggage storage places and one is near the waiting hall of Harbin Railway Station. You can also ask the train station staff for help.
Asked by Hui Koon Tan from MALAYSIA | Jan. 01, 2024 18:11Reply
Harbin Ice & Snow World Entrance Ticket & Sun Island Ticket
Where can I buy the above 2 entrance tickets? Do I need to buy it online before visit or I can buy it on the spot and what is the payment mode accepted - Cash or e-wallet?
Answers (1)
Answered by Leo | Jan. 02, 2024 01:17
00Reply


You can book tickets on the following page. It is better to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Generally, e-wallet is available.
https://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/heilongjiang/harbin-ice-and-snow-world-tickets-booking.htm
Asked by Yunni from INDONESIA | Nov. 13, 2023 23:42Reply
Nearest railway st
I plan visit harbin from beijing by train. Which train st is nearest to the bai xiang holiday hotel?

How to go to from bai ciang holiday hotel to the harbin airport?

Answers (1)
Answered by Frank | Nov. 14, 2023 19:20
00Reply


Is your hotel located at Central Street? If yes, Harbin Railway Station is the closest station, which is less than 20 km.

From the hotel to the airport, you can take Shuttle Bus Line 3 from the Central Street directly.
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