Harbin - Discovering China

Travelling to Harbin

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Harbin, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Harbin and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Harbin, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Harbin for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Harbin

Harbin is a city located in the northeastern region of China, in the Heilongjiang province. It is known for its cold winters and the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, which takes place every January. The city is also famous for its Russian architecture, as it was once a major center of Russian influence in China. Harbin is home to several universities, cultural institutions, and museums, such as the Harbin Museum of Art and the Heilongjiang Provincial Museum. Additionally, Harbin is a transportation hub, with several important railways and highways passing through the city.

What to visit in Harbin

Here are some tourist attractions that Harbin has to offer: 1. Harbin Ice and Snow World - This is the world's largest ice and snow art exhibition, featuring massive ice castles, slides, and sculptures which are all lit up in the evening with colorful lights to create a spectacular sight. You can also enjoy various winter sports like ice-skating, sledding, and snowmobiling.
2. Saint Sophia Cathedral - This is a Russian Orthodox church which was built in 1907 and is now a museum. The museum displays artworks and photographs related to the church's history and the city's culture.
3. Central Street - This is the main commercial street in Harbin, and it offers a mix of European and Chinese architecture. There are many shops, restaurants, and cafes located on this lively street, as well as street performances and other entertainment.
4. Sun Island Scenic Area - This is a large park that features beautiful gardens, lakes, and pavilions. The park also has an amusement park section with roller coasters and other rides.
5. Siberian Tiger Park - This is a wildlife park where you can observe Siberian tigers and other animals in their natural habitat. You can also take a bus tour to get up close to the tigers.
6. Harbin Polarland - This is a large aquarium that features various marine creatures, including polar bears, penguins, sea lions, and beluga whales.
7. Yabuli Ski Resort - This is the largest ski resort in China, located about 200 kilometers from Harbin. It offers various skiing and snowboarding activities for all levels of experience, and also has an ice and snow park where you can enjoy ice sculptures.
Hope that helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Harbin.

When to go on holiday to Harbin

The best time to visit Harbin is during the winter months, from December to February, as this is when the city hosts its world-renowned Harbin Ice and Snow Festival. During this time, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with spectacular ice sculptures, ice-skating performances, and winter sports activities. However, it can also be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as -30°C, so make sure to bring warm clothing if you plan to visit during this time. If you prefer milder weather, the best time to visit Harbin is during the autumn (September to November) or the spring (March to May). The city experiences hot and humid summers, so this may not be the best time to visit for those who are not used to high temperatures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Harbin

There are several ways to get to Harbin, China: 1. By Plane: Harbin Taiping International Airport is the main airport serving Harbin. It is located 33 km northwest of the city center and is served by both domestic and international flights.
2. By Train: Harbin also has a train station that connects to several major cities in China. There are five train stations in Harbin, but the Harbin Railway Station is the main one.
3. By Bus: Harbin has several bus terminals that connect to different regions in China, including the Heilongjiang General Bus Terminal and Harbin West Bus Station.
4. By Car: You can also drive to Harbin from other cities in China. The city is connected by several highways, including the Harbin-Dalian Expressway and the Harbin-Qiqihar Expressway.
Overall, the most convenient way to travel to Harbin is by plane, followed by train and then by bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Harbin, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Harbin

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Harbin, China: 1. Guo Bao Rou - This is a popular dish consisting of fried pork belly coated with a sweet and sour sauce. The pork is usually crispy on the outside and tender inside.
2. Harbin-style stewed vermicelli - This is a hearty noodle soup that is popular during winter. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the soup contains a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles.
3. Russian-style dumplings - Given Harbin's history as a Russian outpost, these dumplings are known for their unique filling of beef and onion. They can be eaten boiled, fried, or steamed.
4. Stinky tofu - This fermented tofu is a polarizing dish that many Harbin locals swear by. It has a strong smell and a soft, creamy texture. It is usually deep-fried and served with spicy sauce.
5. Harbin sausage - These sausages are made of pork and are smoked over fruitwood fire. They are slightly sweet and have a crisp exterior.
6. Harbin beer - While not technically food, Harbin's beer is a famous local product. It's a crisp and refreshing lager that pairs well with the city's hearty cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Harbin an expensive destination for tourists?

Harbin can be an expensive destination for tourists depending on their budget and travel style. The city is known for its winter tourism and ice festival, which are popular attractions but can be costly. Additionally, accommodations in Harbin can range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, so you can find good deals or expensive options according to your preferences.
Food in Harbin is usually affordable, and there are plenty of options for every budget, including street food, local restaurants, and upscale dining. Transportation in Harbin is also reasonably priced, with public transport and taxis being affordable.
Overall, it is possible to have an enjoyable trip to Harbin without breaking the bank, but it is essential to plan and budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Harbin

The best areas to find accommodation in Harbin are in the city center, particularly around Zhongyang Street and Saint Sophia Cathedral. Other popular areas to stay include Nangang District, Daoli District, and Wanda Plaza area. These neighborhoods offer a variety of hotel options, from budget to luxury accommodations and they are close to many of the city's top tourist attractions, including the Harbin Ice and Snow World, Sun Island Scenic Area and Harbin Polarland.
You can check hotel prices at Harbin here:
Booking.com

Is Harbin a safe destination for tourists?

Harbin is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any city, visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety. This includes being aware of their surroundings, particularly in busy areas or at night, and keeping valuables such as passports and wallets secure. It is also advisable to avoid any unsolicited offers or requests for help from strangers. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when crossing roads as traffic can be busy and it's important to always use designated pedestrian crossings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Harbin.

What type of travelers will enjoy Harbin the most?

Harbin in China is a perfect destination for anyone interested in winter sports and ice sculptures. It offers unique experiences that are suitable for families, couples, and young people who are looking for an adventure in the snow. Harbin is particularly popular with young people who are interested in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. However, families and couples can also enjoy the local festivals which are known for their unique ice sculptures and intricate designs. In summary, Harbin offers something for everyone, and visitors can pick an activity that aligns with their interests.

How to get around Harbin

In Harbin, you can move around by public transportation like the bus or metro, by taxi or by bike. The bus and metro are efficient and affordable options to get around the city, while taxis are more convenient and offer door-to-door services. Biking is also becoming an increasingly popular way to explore the city, with many bike-sharing services available.

What to see around Harbin

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Harbin, China: 1. Yabuli Ski Resort - A popular skiing destination with lush greenery and natural landscapes.
2. Harbin Ice and Snow World - A man-made park made of ice and snow sculptures.
3. Sun Island Scenic Area - A natural park with gardens, lakes, and more.
4. Zhaolin Park - A beautiful park known for its ice lantern festival, held annually.
5. Siberian Tiger Park - A park with tigers, lions, and other animals.
6. Saint Sophia Cathedral - A beautiful Byzantine-style church built-in 1907.
7. Harbin Polarland - An aquarium where you can see polar bears and other arctic animals.
8. Harbin Indoor Ski Resort - A great place for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Harbin! Let me know if you need any other information.
For every travel information about China you can click here.

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