Harbin
The Ice City & Paris of the East
Welcome to Harbin! Known as the "Ice City" and the "Paris of the East," Harbin offers a unique blend of Russian architecture, world-class ice art, and hearty Northeastern (Dongbei) hospitality.
1. Attractions
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Note: Some major attractions require reservations even with tickets. Be sure to use Trip.com to purchase and reserve simultaneously
Day 1: Russian Charm & Citywalk
1. Red Brick Street Morning Market (Hongzhuan Jie)
Experience local life. Try "Fried Dough Cakes" (Youzhagao) or "Meat & Egg Burgers" (Roudanbao).
2. St. Sophia Cathedral
The landmark of Harbin. This Byzantine-style church with its green onion domes looks like a fairytale castle against the snow. Pro Tip: Go at dusk when the lights come on for the best photos.
3. Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie)
Asia's longest pedestrian street paved with 100-year-old "bread stones." Must-Do: Challenge yourself to eat a Madieer Ice Lolly (5-10 CNY) in sub-zero temperatures!
4. Songhua River Railway Bridge
Visit at sunset for a romantic view of the frozen river. Ice activities on the river below range from 30–100 CNY.
Day 2: Ice & Snow Fairy Tale
1. Harbin Polarland
A warm indoor escape. Don't miss the "Heart of the Sea" beluga show and the famous "Penguin on a Mission" (Tao Xue Qi E) parade.
2. Harbin Ice and Snow World
The world’s largest ice theme park. It’s like a real-life Frozen. Must-Try: The 500m giant slide and the Snowflake Ferris Wheel (included in ticket).
Day 3: History & Art Heritage
1. Harbin Pharmaceutical Factory No. 6
A grand Baroque complex that went viral for its opulent gold halls. Known as the "Eastern Louvre".
2. Lao Daowai (Chinese Baroque Street)
A unique fusion of Western Baroque exteriors and Chinese courtyard interiors. Great for local snacks.
2. Food Recommendations
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Authentic Dongbei Flavors
Lao Chu Jia (老厨家)
锅包肉
Famous for Guo Bao Rou (~58 CNY).
Shan He Tun Iron Pot Stew
山河屯铁锅炖
~150-200 CNY for a huge pot (feeds 3-4).
Lao Chang Chun Bing
老昌春饼
~40-60 CNY per person.
Old Taste BBQ
老味烧烤
~70-90 CNY per person.
Lao Ding Feng
老鼎丰
~20-40 CNY for pastries/cakes.
3. Transportation Guide
Arrival: Airport to CBD (Central Street)
- Airport Bus (Line 3): 20 CNY per person. Get off at Jingwei Erdao Jie.Check flights via
- Taxis/Didi: ~100-130 CNY.
Arrival: Railway Station to Central Street
- Metro (Recommended): Take Line 2 (towards Jiangbeidaxuecheng). Get off at Suojiajie Station (Exit 1). 5-min walk.Check trains via
- Public Bus: Line 16 (Flood Control Monument) or Line 21 (Jingwei Street).
Getting Around Town
- Metro: Best way to visit Ice & Snow World or Polarland without traffic.
- Walking: Central Street, the Cathedral, and the Bridge are all within a walkable cluster.
4. Where to Stay
Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie)
Best for first-timers. Most attractions are walkable, heart of food scene.
Museum Station Area
Interchange for Metro Lines 1 & 2. Near Railway Station, major malls (Qiulin, Songlei).
Harbin Railway Station Area
Best for late train arrivals. Easy access to Airport Bus and Metro Line 2. Example: ZMAX Hotel.
5. Essential Tips (Survival Guide)
💡 Survival Tips
- Booking: Buy Ice and Snow World tickets online 1 day in advance via Trip.com.
- Power Bank: Cold kills phone batteries. Keep yours in an inner pocket.
- Monday Closures: Most museums are closed on Mondays. Plan your Citywalk accordingly.