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Harbin: China’s Forgotten Gem, Where Romance Rivals Paris

When winter arrives, Harbin’s snow is breathtaking. The quiet nights, with snow falling on European-style buildings, and the warm glow of streetlights, make the city seem like an ice kingdom.

Many people say that you should visit Harbin in winter. It’s a place with a fairytale atmosphere. Yet, despite its online popularity, Harbin is losing many of its own people. It is a bittersweet thing to see this city’s beauty.

Once known as “Little Paris of the Orient”, it was Asia’s second largest international city. In 1900, the city opened its port. Over 20 countries set up consulates here, and you could buy almost anything from all over the world at the Universal Department Store.

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Some say that Harbin is the most heartbreaking provincial capital in China. Its high starting point was not matched by its transformation, leading to its beauty being overlooked.

But it is also Asia’s only “City of Music,” as recognized by the UN. It was home to China’s first symphony orchestra, movie theater, tourist train, and music school. It was once a leader in culture and art.

It’s a foodie paradise, with its signature Guobaorou (sweet and sour pork), Russian cuisine, Northeastern stew, Harbin red sausage, and local beer.

It is also the most stylish city in Northeast China. European and Russian architecture can be found everywhere. With over 70 churches, it’s unlike anywhere else in the country. In winter, it’s a dreamscape of white snow, becoming the “Moscow of the East.”

Harbin’s Winter Magic

Winter is when Harbin shines. It’s like a free ice and snow museum, peaceful, pure, and romantic. If you haven’t been, you won’t understand the magic of the ice and snow, and why people are so captivated by it.

A Touch of Moscow

With its Russian style, you’ll feel as though you might find yourself in Moscow in winter. If it snows, take a walk with a loved one by the Saint Sophia Cathedral. Its red bricks and green domes, with a golden cross atop, create a magical scene like something from Hogwarts.

Stroll Down Central Avenue

When it snows, walk down Central Avenue. In the day, admire its diverse architecture including Greek, Gothic, Byzantine, and Baroque styles. At night, with its neon lights, it becomes a true “Little Paris”. Listen for the soft footsteps on the cobblestones.

Explore Gogol Street

When it snows, stroll along Gogol Street. Gogol Bookstore is China’s most beautiful European-style bookstore. There you can read a book, and also see the Alexeyev Church light up against the snow.

Discover the Old Daowai District

When it snows, wander through the Old Daowai District. It’s a popular filming location with unique Chinese Baroque architecture, where European and Eastern cultures intertwine.

Volga Manor

When it snows, walk through Volga Manor. With its Pavlov Castle and St. Nicholas Church, and a taste of vodka, it will feel like you’ve stepped into Russia.

Winter Fun in Harbin

Snow and Ice Adventures

Harbin has fun ice and snow activities that will be remembered for a lifetime! The Binzhou Railway Bridge over the Songhua River, is the first railway bridge on the river. In winter, you can walk on the glass walkway above the frozen river and then play on the frozen surface, which includes ice skating, horse-drawn carriages, ice top spinning, dog sledding, and off-road vehicles.

Harbin Ice and Snow World

Harbin Ice and Snow World is a fairytale paradise, the world’s largest and most beautiful “Ice and Snow Disneyland”. During the day, you can marvel at the ice sculptures that glisten in the sun. At night, the colorful lights transform the park into a magical wonderland.

Harbin Music Park

At Harbin Music Park, you can see the giant snowman that went viral online and many other creative snow sculptures.

Yabuli Ski Resort

Yabuli Ski Resort is China’s largest ski resort. You can experience the freedom of skiing down its white slopes.

Zhaolin Park and Stalin Park

You should visit Zhaolin Park to see the ice lanterns and Stalin Park to see the snow sculptures. Harbin’s winter is a celebration for the whole city!

A Winter Feast

Harbin is one of the best cities in China for winter food. Try a Madier Ice Cream, a signature treat in the city. Its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture is delightful.

Explore the frozen treats that are sold outdoors; frozen persimmons and frozen pears burst with a sweet flavor. Also, be sure to try the hearty stews, including Northeastern stew, Guobaorou, bone stew, and sha zhu cai. For a bit of elegance, try a traditional Russian dinner, with salads, pickles, borscht, and beef stew. Like many Harbin locals, you might just enjoy red sausage with big bread ( dà liè ba), and a glass of kvass.

Don’t forget the night market barbecue. Friends gather, drink Harbin Beer, eat skewers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Whether it’s the exotic scenery or hearty cuisine, Harbin is a place that captivates the hearts of those who have visited, and makes those who haven’t wish to go. When it snows, Harbin calls its people home, and welcomes new visitors to experience the city’s magic.

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