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).
Cost:Free admission
Hours:Early morning (Best before 08:30)
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!
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
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.
Cost:Free to walk
Hours:Open all day
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".
Cost:Free
Hours:Best before 16:00
2. Lao Daowai (Chinese Baroque Street)
A unique fusion of Western Baroque exteriors and Chinese courtyard interiors. Great for local snacks.
Cost:Free
Hours:Open all day
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
- Air:
Airport Bus is best value option. Ticket 20 RMB, located at T2 Gate 7. Runs until very last flight arrives. Rideshare(Didi) and taxi cost about 70-80 RMB (Taxi costs a bit more). Pickup point also outside Gate 7. Note highway toll rule: travel from city to airport cost 30 RMB extra, but airport to city is free.Check flights via
- Train:
Harbin Station: Metro Line 2 is top choice. Connects all key spots like Central Street and Ice World. Price very cheap, starts 2 RMB, runs until 22:30. Taxi good if heavy luggage. Distance to Central Street only 1.5km, cost around 10 RMB. Follow signs to official waiting area. Do not follow touts or take illegal black cars at exit to avoid scams.Check trains via
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.