A Beijing Travelogue 2 - Harbin Ice & Snow Festival

[PeterRS]

I realise that Harbin is a 2 hour flight north east of Beijing, but Beijing is almost certainly the nearest stopping off point for international travellers (although there may now be some flights to Harbin from other Asian destinations). 

Harbin is fascinating in itself for it was at one time almost more of a Russian city. Many thousands of white Russians fled here by train following the revolution. Even the main streets are posted in Chinese, English and Russian. With at the city's centre a decomissioned Russian cathedral, there are other Russian influences almost everywhere.

But it is for the annual Ice and Snow Sculture Festival from roughly early-January to late-February that most people visit. Hotels get booked up months beforehand and so planning in advance is virtually essential.

Two problems wherever you fly in from. The 72 hour transit visa does not cover Harbin and so you will need in advance a short-term China visitor visa. Secondly, it is freezing cold - around -25C if you visit the Ice Park at night. And that makes it difficult for a stop over if you are flying to the heat of Asia. Who wants to carry really cold weather gear if you can pack everything else into a carry-on? So you are more likely to combine Harbin with a longer trip to other scenic parts of China - of which there are many to choose from.

I flew to Harbin specifically for the Festival. It is the largest in the world and literally takes one's breath away. Located in two parks on the opposite of the river from the main city, transport there and back can be a problem. I took the advice of the hotel and booked a taxi to get me to the Ice Park at night when all the scuptures are lit from within, wait for me at the site and then get me home. I cannot now recall the price but it was quite reasonable. The Snow Park is not open at night and so you only need transport in the morning or afternoon. Make sure you also take in the Snow Leopard park close to the Snow Park

An indoor Ice and Snow Park opened last year in Harbin so that visitors can enjoy the exhibits year roud. I wish I could be enthusiastic about it, but I can't. It sounds more for kids and families. That's true of the winter parks but you are rarely aware of it.  

[khaolakguy]

Interesting to see all these old posts from other handles being recycled. Must have been 10 years ago or more that it was first posted.