Harbin Ice and Snow World Landscape
Welcome to 42nd Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival 2025 world’s largest ice and snow festival! Every winter, the present-day Harbin in northeastern China turns into an ice kingdom. “2025 should be even better than 2024 - even more interactive activities, ice castles lit with more advanced lights, and even those main spots like Ice and Snow World, etc., you will see sculptures lining the Central Street to the Saint Sophia Cathedral. To get to the best of these wonderful highlights without missing key details and getting in trouble, a practical guide is exactly what you need.
We break down the four essential core venues and explain the other displays of ice citywide, and how to get around seamlessly. Chilling perks not to be missed, from gigantic ice slides to cultural insights, and when to go (the sweet spot is midbJanuary, trust me!). With valuable survival info and local gastronomic advice from Madier ice cream to the hearty tieguodun, and how to survive -25C, we’ve got you covered. Fun for newcomers and veterans alike. Read on to guarantee your 2025 Harbin Ice Festival is unforgettable!
The festival spans multiple locations across Harbin. Understanding each venue helps you plan your itinerary efficiently:
Harbin Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界)
This is why people go to Harbin. The 27th edition of Ice and Snow World fuses technology with traditional ice art forms. Think multi-storey ice castles with synchronised LED lights within, gargantuan ice slides 500m in length or displays where moving your limbs creates ripples of light. The park has increased its number of warming stations this year, and complimentary ginger tea wait in flasks, a true godsend after hours in the cold. The best time to go would be from 3pm onwards so you get to enjoy the views under the sun and the brighter illuminations at nightfall.
It happens in Harbin: you ascend a spiral staircase made entirely of ice, sit yourself down on a tiny plastic sled and pushing yourself forward, plummet down a frozen slide 521 metres long. I shrieked the whole way down, it was terrifying and marvellous all at once. The 2025 season sees an expansion from the previous 14 to 24 giant slides and an additional 10 snow tubing tracks. Harbin Ice and Snow World 2025 feels like stepping into a giant frozen city of glowing lights and surreal winter magic, where every corner looks straight out of a dream.
Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo (太阳岛雪博会)
Where else can you find the world’s largest collection of snow sculptures than Sun Island, a photographer’s dream? Unlike the riotous colours of the ice world, the white beauties here rely on natural light and shadow to truly shine. Looking through 3 hours’ worth of photos from just wandering among the 20m tall snow monuments depicting everything from Chinese mythology to modern art, it’s obvious that the best time to visit is in the morning when the sunlight makes for very dramatic shadows.
Zhaolin Park Ice Lantern Garden Party (兆麟公园冰灯游园会)
The birthplace of Harbin's ice lantern tradition since 1963, Zhaolin Park is the more intimate, family friendly side of the festival. The smaller sculptures are whimsically beautiful and suitable for children. There are competitions too where you can watch the artists create to order. Best of all, it’s completely free!
Songhua River Ice and Snow Carnival (松花江冰雪嘉年华)
On the frozen Songhua River you can go ice biking (pedaling special bikes with blade runners across the ice), dog sledding pulled by eager hounds, snowmobiling, and even ice go-karting — all for an extra ¥50-150 on the original cost — but well worth every yuan!
Make Your Harbin Trip Unforgettable: Must-Do Activities & Experiences
Cultural & Artistic Highlights: Dive Into Harbin’s Creative Soul
Beyond the excitement of the ice sculptures, there is also an opportunity to engage in artistic achievement. The International Ice Sculpture Competition brings artists from Russia, Japan, Canada and beyond to face off in a contest to bring forth masterpieces from frozen water. Amazing to behold is a sculptor in rapture molding block ice into an exquisite phoenix, an elaborate pagoda.
Harbin calls itself the ‘City of Music’, and what better time to enjoy some performances than winter! Close to 200 concerts, ballets, and plays are performed in venues throughout the city. Attend luxury symphonies worth a fancy ticket at the Harbin Grand Theatre or enjoy sweet mellifluous traditional Chinese performances in smaller venues. For a taste of quirky culture, be sure to check out the Ice Harvest Festival and the romantic Ice Wedding Ceremony in which couples wed in ice chapels!
Local Exclusive Experiences: Discover Harbin Beyond the Festival
Don’t miss the winter swimming festivities at Stalin Park, where the locals (who perform the ritual regardless of age, with some in their 70s!) dive into freezing holes cut in the icy surface of the Songhua River, all in nothing more than swimsuits! To say the least, it’s jarring, inspiring, but great fun to watch. If you want to see some architecture with a Russian touch, stroll along Central Street or the stunning Byzantine-style Saint Sophia Cathedral; whip out your camera as needed. If you’ve got time, head further afield to Yabuli Ski Resort (the largest in China) or the fairytale village of Snow Town (中国雪乡) about 6-7 hours away from Harbin.
City-Wide Ice Displays: Explore Beyond Main Festival Venues
The festival isn’t just at venues that sell tickets. This year Harbin has filled Central Street (中央大街), the famous pedestrian boulevard, with dozens of ice sculptures and fantastic light displays. The beautiful Saint Sophia Cathedral hosts the ‘Moonrise over Sophia’ light show, a romantic display of projection light projected on the building that couples flock to every night. Even the area around the Flood Control Monument along the river shines brightly with ice. Walking in Harbin is like walking in crystal.
❄ Starting with Harbin’s iconic Ice & Snow Festival and stretching all the way to warm-sun cities and heritage-packed streets, China’s 30+ winter plans for 2025 are seriously stacked.
Savor Harbin Like a Local: Foodie’s Guide to Warming Flavors
Iconic Street Snacks: Bite Into Harbin’s Winter Charm
It’s hard to beat the quirky Harbin-ness of eating a Madier Ice Cream Bar (马迭尔冰棍) while standing in -20°C weather. This century-old brand serving creamy, vanilla-flavored popsicles was brought over by the Russian merchants. It’s a wonderfully absurd experience that locals will line up in a blizzard for, and you’ll find it sold at the original shop found on Central Street.
You shouldn’t miss Tanghulu (冰糖葫芦) while on the street, candied fruit skewers that come in a wild assortment of all sorts of fruits from strawberries to cherry tomatoes to all manner of spicy snacks. Grilled Red Sausage (烤红肠) fills the air with the fragrant smell of garlic from every street corner. And whatever you do, make sure to dig into frozen pears and persimmons as they recently soared to fame! These rock-hard fruits thaw in water, bringing out a juicy delight that’s truly refreshing!
Hearty Northeast Dishes: Warm Up in Harbin’s Cold
After hours of being out in the cold, nothing is more satisfying than a true Dongbei (Northeast) spread. Such huge portions and bold flavours, and just the calories your frozen body desires. Guobaorou (锅包肉)—crispy sweet and sour pork—was invented here in Harbin. Tieguodun (铁锅炖) is an experience: a huge iron pot comes to the table bubbling with stewed chicken, fish, or pork all surrounded by corn bread slowly baking on the edge. The waft will warm you up all by itself.
Because of its Russian heritage, Harbin has the truest Russian food in China. For hearty borscht, beef stroganoff and buttery blini, check out Huamei Restaurant (华梅西餐厅) or Tados Restaurant (塔道斯西餐厅).
Harbin Souvenirs: Bring Home the City’s Flavors & Crafts
By far the best edible souvenirs we found are Qiulin Red Sausage (秋林红肠)—affectionately referred to as the “smelliest sausage” we’ve ever eaten, vacuum-packed, and ready to give away to all your friends—and MINDBLOWING Daliba (大列巴)—a gigantic loaf of Russian-style bread that keeps for weeks! As for non-food gifts, festival merchandise and local crafts make great presents. Many of the stores along Central Street will ship anywhere in China for free if you spend a certain amount—this is great for all of us who love to load up on gifts!
Pick the Perfect Time for Ice Festival Harbin 2025: Key Dates & Best Visits
Harbin Ice and Snow World
2025-2026 Official Dates: Plan Your Trip in Advance
The 2025-2026 Harbin Ice Festival season kicks off earlier than many visitors expect. Here are the key dates you need to know:
| Event Phase | Date/Timeframe | Key Activity |
| Festival Season Launch | November 7, 2025 | Celebration activities and early events begin. |
| Core Venues Opening | Mid to late December 2025 | Ice and Snow World, Sun Island, and other main attractions open to visitors. |
| Official Opening Ceremony | January 5, 2026 | Grand celebrations with fireworks and performances. |
| Festival End | Late February 2026 | Conclusion of the main events (some venues may extend into early March, weather permitting). |
Pro Tip: You don't need to wait for the official ceremony! The ice sculptures are viewable as soon as venues open in late December, often with smaller crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Get the Most Out of Harbin Ice Festival 2025
Choosing the right time to visit can make or break your experience. Here's my breakdown based on three visits to the festival:
Late Dec (Christmas): The pros include early access and a festive atmosphere, though the con is that some sculptures may be incomplete.
Dec 31 - Jan 1 (New Year): This period offers the pros of New Year fireworks and celebrations, but the cons are peak crowds and higher prices.
Jan 6-20 (★): The best time features all sculptures complete and moderate crowds, but you should be prepared for the coldest temperatures.
Chinese New Year: While offering strong cultural celebrations, the cons are extreme crowds and surging prices.
Mid-Late Feb: The pros include fewer tourists and possible discounts, but the sculptures may be starting to melt.
My Recommendation: Mid-January (January 6-20) offers the sweet spot. During my January 15th visit, every ice castle was picture-perfect, the light shows were running at full capacity, and I could actually get photos without hundreds of people in the background. Yes, it was brutally cold (-24°C that day), but that's exactly what keeps the sculptures pristine!
Budget Smart for Harbin 2025: Tickets, Costs & Transport Tips
Venue Ticket Prices: 2025-2026 Updated List
The Harbin Ice Festival isn't a single venue—it's spread across multiple locations, each with separate admission. Here's what you'll pay:
| Venue | Ticket Price (CNY / USD Est.) | Key Details & Highlights |
| 1. Harbin Ice and Snow World (Main Venue) | Standard Adult Ticket: ¥328 / (~$46) | Must-See Main Venue! Open daily 10:00-22:00 (Dec 20, 2025 - Feb 28, 2026; last entry 21:30). Expanded to $1.2$ million $m^2$, using $400,000 m^3$ of ice/snow (largest in history). |
| 2. Sun Island Snow Expo (38th Session) | Standard Ticket: Approx. ¥198 / (~$28) | Location: North bank of the Songhua River. Features giant snow sculptures. Highlight: "Penguins and Giant Panda Grand Meeting." |
| 3. Zhaolin Park Ice Lanterns (52nd Session) | FREE | Harbin's oldest ice lantern show, strong in traditional art. Offers classic winter activities like spinning ice tops and skating. |
| 4. Songhua River Carnival (8th Session) | FREE Entry (Individual activities ¥30-¥80) | Location: On the frozen Songhua River by the Flood Control Monument. Over 60 free-entry ice activities (ice biking, dog sledding). Theme: "Happy Ice & Snow - Asian Winter Games Dream." |
Discounted tickets are available for students, seniors (65+), and children under 1.2 meters. Some venues offer combo packages that save ¥50-100 when purchasing multiple attractions together.
Money-Saving Tips: Book hotels 2-4 weeks in advance for best rates. Avoid Christmas week and Chinese New Year when prices spike 50-100%. Street food vendors on Central Street offer delicious meals for under ¥30.
Foreign Visitor Ticket Buying: Step-by-Step Guide
Good news for international travelers: purchasing tickets has become much easier in recent years. Here are your options:
Travel/Booking App (e.g., Trip.com): The most convenient option for foreigners. Book in advance, pay with international credit cards, and receive e-tickets directly to your phone.
Official WeChat Account: Search for the venue's official account and book through the mini-program. Requires passport information.
On-Site Purchase: Use the ticket booths, which accept foreign currency and international cards. Remember to bring your passport!
Warning: Avoid scalpers outside venues! I watched several tourists get scammed with fake or already-used tickets. Official channels are reliable and often cheaper.
Reach & Travel Around Harbin: Flights, Trains & Local Transport
Reaching Harbin is straightforward from major Chinese cities and several international destinations:
By Air: Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB) serves major domestic routes (e.g., Beijing in 2 hours, Shanghai in 3 hours) and international flights (Seoul, Tokyo, Vladivostok). Airport shuttle buses offer affordable transit to Central Street for about ¥20.
By High-Speed Train: The bullet train from Beijing is a fast and scenic option, taking only about 5 hours. Trains arrive at either Harbin Railway Station or Harbin West Station.
Getting Around: Local travel is convenient using Metro Line 2, which has a direct stop at the Ice and Snow World Station. Taxis are also affordable, but plan to avoid heavy traffic during rush hours.
Survive Harbin’s -25°C Effortlessly: Packing & Cold-Weather Hacks
Extreme Cold Outfits: Layering Tips for Harbin’s Winter
Let me be honest: Harbin in January is COLD. We're talking -15°C to -25°C cold. But with proper preparation, it's completely manageable—even enjoyable. Here's the layering system that kept me comfortable during a 4-hour evening at Ice and Snow World:
| Layer Category | Item Description | Key Requirement/Purpose |
| 1. Base Layer | Thermal underwear (Top and Bottom) | Moisture-wicking fabric is essential |
| 2. Mid Layer | Fleece jacket or wool sweater | For insulation and warmth |
| 3. Outer Layer | Thick down jacket | Must be windproof and waterproof (ideally) |
| 4. Accessories | Insulated hat, scarf/neck gaiter, thick waterproof gloves, wool socks | Hat must cover ears; bring spare socks! |
| 5. Footwear | Insulated, waterproof snow boots | NOT optional. Must have non-slip soles. |
Lifesaver Tip: Disposable hand and toe warmers (暖宝宝) are absolute essentials. I went through 6-8 per day. They cost almost nothing and can be bought at any convenience store in Harbin. Stick them inside your gloves, shoes, and even on your phone's back to prevent battery death.
Electronics Protection: Keep Phones & Cameras Alive in Cold
Extreme cold murders electronics. I watched my phone drop from 80% to 0% after taking just five photos. Lithium batteries simply cannot function properly below -10°C. Here's how to keep your devices alive:
Keep Warm: Store your phone inside your jacket, close to your body, when not in use.
Boost Heat: Attach a hand warmer to the back of your phone case for extra warmth.
Manage Power: Bring multiple backup batteries/power banks (and keep these warm as well!).
Minimize Exposure: Take quick bursts of photos, then immediately store your camera/device away.
Acclimate Gradually: When returning indoors, let devices warm up gradually to prevent condensation damage.
Icy Ground Safety: Avoid Slips & Stays Protected
The ice underfoot is beautiful but treacherous. I witnessed multiple tourists slip and fall, including one painful tumble on the ice slide stairs. Invest in shoes with proper grip—smooth-soled fashion boots are a recipe for disaster. You can buy portable crampon attachments (冰爪) for about ¥20 at shops around the festival venues. They strap onto any shoe and provide excellent traction. Walk slowly, take small steps, and avoid rushing—the ice isn't going anywhere!
Frequently Asked Questions: Clear Your Doubts About Ice Festival Harbin 2025
Q: What month is the Harbin Ice Festival 2025?
The festival runs from late December through late February, with the official opening ceremony on January 5th. The best time to visit is mid-January (around January 6-20) when all sculptures are complete, the light shows are in full operation, and crowds are more manageable than during the New Year and Chinese Spring Festival periods.
Q:Where is the Harbin Ice Festival in 2025?
The festival takes place in Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang Province in Northeast China. The main venue, Ice and Snow World, is located in Songbei District and is easily accessible via Metro Line 2 (get off at 'Ice and Snow World Station'). Other venues include Sun Island, Zhaolin Park in the city center, and the frozen Songhua River.
Q: How much does it cost to go to the Harbin Ice Festival 2025?
Ticket prices vary by venue: Ice and Snow World costs approximately ¥330 (~$45 USD), Sun Island Snow Expo is ¥330, Songhua River Carnival is ¥288, and Zhaolin Park is free. Budget approximately ¥1,200-1,500 ($165-210 USD) per day for a comfortable experience including tickets, meals, and local transport. Book accommodations early as winter is peak season.
Q: What is the best time to visit Harbin?
For the Ice Festival, mid-January to early February offers the ideal balance. Sculptures are fully completed, facilities are operating smoothly, and while it's extremely cold (-20°C or below), the crisp air keeps everything frozen and perfect. Avoid Chinese New Year (late January to early February in 2026) when domestic tourists flood the city, causing long queues and inflated prices.
Q: Is Harbin safe for foreign tourists?
Absolutely. Harbin is very safe for international visitors. The main concerns are weather-related: frostbite from inadequate clothing and slipping on ice. Major venues have warming stations, first aid facilities, and staff trained in basic English. Tourist police are present at popular sites. The biggest 'danger' is getting so absorbed in the beauty that you forget how cold you are!
Q: How cold does Harbin get? Can I handle it?
January temperatures typically range from -10°C to -25°C (14°F to -13°F), sometimes dropping below -30°C during cold snaps. Yes, it's brutal—but thousands of visitors from tropical countries manage just fine every year with proper preparation. The key is layering: thermal underwear, fleece, thick down jacket, plus hat, scarf, gloves, and insulated boots. Warming stations serving free hot ginger tea are scattered throughout the park. You'll be uncomfortable at first, but the magical scenery makes it all worthwhile.
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