Harbin Winter Odyssey

Upon arrival in Harbin, transfer privately from the station or airport to the hotel for check-in and a short rest. After check-in and a short rest, visit Zhaolin Park for the Harbin Ice Lantern Show. Known as the birthplace of the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, this beloved park holds fond childhood memories for many locals.

Each winter, the park hosts lively ice sculpture competitions, where intricate creations take shape in the form of animals, castles, and fantastical figures. As night falls, colourful lights illuminate the sculptures, turning the entire park into a glowing ice-and-snow wonderland.

In the morning, visit Siberian Tiger Park, a major conservation and breeding centre for the species. Follow the protected viewing route to observe the tigers across the large enclosures before continuing to Sun Island. Continue to Sun Island, famous for its International Snow Sculpture Art Expo. Marvel at massive snow-carved masterpieces ranging from mythological figures to modern designs.

Pause for lunch at Jin Dongbei Iron Pot Stew (今东北铁锅炖), where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked together in a large iron pot, creating rich flavours and hearty warmth.

In the afternoon, head to Harbin Ice and Snow World, a Guinness World Record holder recognised as the largest ice-and-snow theme park in the world. This grand artistic project combines ice sculptures, cultural showcases, and live performances, with a new theme each year. Using vast amounts of ice and snow, it recreates iconic landmarks from around the globe and features attractions such as giant ice slides, a snow Ferris wheel, large-scale snow discos, and dazzling drone shows. By night, the experience becomes even more magical as every ice structure glows with colourful lights, enhanced by performances and interactive events, immersing you fully in this frozen wonderland.

This morning, embark on a 3-hour scenic drive southeast of Harbin to Yabuli Ski Resort, China’s largest and most prestigious ski destination. Renowned for hosting international winter sports competitions, Yabuli is equipped with the nation’s most sophisticated ski facilities and boasts the longest alpine ski slope in Asia.

The resort spans 10 square kilometres and features 11 ski runs catering to all levels, from beginner-friendly gentle slopes to professional-grade steep runs. With a snow season lasting up to five months and a snow retention period of around 170 days, Yabuli offers ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

After checking into your hotel upon arrival, gear up for an included 3-hour beginner skiing session in the afternoon. Under professional guidance, you’ll learn basic skiing techniques and glide down powdery slopes surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Feel the rush of crisp winter air and the joy of each turn as you embrace the thrill of snow sports in China’s winter paradise.

Following your skiing adventure, return to your hotel to relax and rejuvenate. Tomorrow, another day of snowy exploration awaits.

A three-hour beginner skiing session with skis, poles, and boots is included. The instructor introduces balance, braking, and basic turns on a suitable practice slope; helmets, goggles, gloves, and warm ski clothing are strongly recommended.

This morning, depart from Yabuli and enjoy a 2-hour scenic drive to China Snow Town, officially named Shuangfeng Forest Farm.

Snow Town is a dreamlike fairytale created by nature itself. With an average snow depth of 2 metres—the heaviest in China—its soft, viscous snow earns it the well-deserved reputation of “China’s No.1 Snow Town.” Coming to China's Snow Town is like stepping into the animated cartoon Boonie Bears.

Upon arrival, the pure white landscape of mountains, cottages, and forests instantly enchants you. A walk along Snowy Street reveals lively scenes of local life—lantern-lit wooden houses, snack stalls, and souvenir shops offering frozen treats such as pears and persimmons, as well as sticky bean buns.

As night falls, Snow Town glows under the red lanterns. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the entire village blanketed in snow. The warm light from chimney smoke mingling with the jade-like snow creates a magical atmosphere, as though you’ve entered a living fairytale.

Rise early for a sunrise experience at Yangcao Mountain, standing 1,350 metres above sea level. From its vantage point, the sun slowly emerges behind the peaks, painting the snowy landscape in shades of gold and crimson. Frost-covered branches and rime ice sparkle in the morning light, offering photographers a perfect opportunity to capture the grandeur of the Northeast winter.

Later, head to Dream Home, an area famed for its enchanting snow-covered houses. The roofs here resemble fluffy cream cakes or plump mushrooms under layers of snow, forming some of the most iconic winter landscapes in Snow Town. Every turn offers postcard-worthy views, immersing you in a whimsical wonderland. In the afternoon, bid farewell to this Snow Town and return to Harbin by private vehicle.

Begin your day with a stroll through Hongzhuan Street Morning Market, where the daily rhythm of Harbin unfolds in a lively, down-to-earth atmosphere. The air carries the fragrance of authentic northeastern snacks, including pancakes, tofu pudding, and fried cakes, while residents shop for produce and exchange morning greetings.

Next, head to the Snowman Pier at the Bund to witness Harbin’s famed winter swimming performance. Despite the biting cold, swimmers leap into the icy Songhua River with fearless enthusiasm.

Continue to Saint Sophia Cathedral, the city’s most iconic Russian Orthodox landmark. Its striking green onion dome, red brick façade, and ornate details showcase Harbin’s blend of Russian and Chinese influences. Inside, the Harbin Architecture Art Museum traces the city’s urban development, while outside, a snowfall transforms the cathedral into a fairytale castle shimmering in winter light.

Afterward, wander down Zhongyang Pedestrian Street, Harbin’s century-old central avenue, nicknamed the “Outdoor Architectural Art Museum.” Lined with Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau façades, the street exudes a cosmopolitan charm. Here, you can shop for handicrafts, watch street performers, or indulge in a blend of Chinese and Russian specialties — Harbin sausages, Russian bread, Maidel ice cream, and a sip of Qiulin Kvass.

At the riverbank, explore Stalin Park, a beloved winter playground where families gather for ice skating, sledding, and snowmobiling. The frozen Songhua River becomes a vast expanse of laughter and energy, adding to the city’s vibrant winter spirit.

Conclude your journey in Lao Daowai, Harbin’s historic heart and birthplace. This district, home to China’s largest collection of “Chinese Baroque” architecture, reflects a unique fusion of Eastern courtyards hidden behind Western façades. As you stroll its lanes, you’ll discover nostalgic shops, traditional snacks, and artisanal crafts — each echoing the city’s layered past and enduring character.

The journey ends with a private transfer to Harbin airport or railway station.