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Harbin Ice Festival

This guide is designed to help you plan and maximize your time. For additional sights and experiences, click the "Details" link for more information.

Attractions

St. Sophia Cathedral

Zhongyang Pedestrian Street

Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo

Siberian Tiger Park

Harbin Polarland

Unit 731 Museum

Day 1

Arrival and Harbin City Highlights


Morning


Arrival in Harbin

Arrive at Harbin Taiping International Airport or Harbin Train Station.


• Transfer to your hotel in the city center and check-in.


• Time: 1–2 hours (depending on your travel method and location).


Afternoon


St. Sophia Cathedral

Visit this Russian Orthodox church turned museum to explore Harbin’s architectural history.


• Take photos of the stunning exterior and learn about Harbin’s Russian influence.


• Time: 1–1.5 hours.


Zhongyang Pedestrian Street

Stroll along this historic street with Russian-style buildings, souvenir shops, and food vendors.


• Sample local snacks like Harbin sausages and Russian-style baked goods.


• Time: 1.5–2 hours.


Evening


Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo

See massive snow sculptures featuring animals, landmarks, and mythical creatures.


• Walk through illuminated snow displays in the evening for a magical experience.


• Time: 3–4 hours.

Day 2

Harbin Ice and Snow World and Winter Activities


Morning


Siberian Tiger Park

Explore this breeding center for Siberian tigers and take a safari-style bus ride to see the tigers roaming freely.


• Learn about the park’s conservation efforts.


• Time: 2–3 hours.


Afternoon


Ice Swimming on the Songhua River

Watch locals participate in this daring tradition or try it yourself!


• Walk along the river and enjoy the winter scenery near Stalin Park.


• Time: 1 hour.


Evening


Harbin Ice and Snow World

Explore the festival’s main attraction featuring giant illuminated ice sculptures, ice castles, and slides.


• Enjoy light shows and explore themed areas with intricate designs.


• Time: 4-5 hours.

Day 3

Cultural and Historical Exploration


Morning


Harbin Polarland

Visit this polar-themed aquarium featuring marine animals and polar bears. Watch live performances like the “Polar Bear Dance.”


• Time: 2-3 hours.


Afternoon


Unit 731 Museum

Learn about the history of Japan’s Unit 731 during World War II in this sobering museum.


• Explore the exhibitions and memorials, offering an important historical perspective.


• Time: 1.5-2 hours.


Evening


Zhaolin Park Ice Lantern Fair

Conclude your trip at this smaller-scale festival featuring intricate ice sculptures and colorful lanterns.


• Enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the grand displays of Ice and Snow World.


• Time: 2-4 hours.

© 2025 by FOREIGN TEACHER.

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