Distinct 11 Things to Do in Heilongjiang: Ice Adventures, Cultural Gems & Wild Escapes

Ice and Snow Experiences: Heilongjiang's Star Attractions

When people search for things to do in Heilongjiang, ice and snow activities dominate every list—and for good reason. This province hosts the largest ice festival in the world and offers winter experiences you simply cannot find anywhere else in China.

Harbin Ice and Snow World — The Crown Jewel of Winter

The 2025 season of Harbin Ice and Snow World runs with the theme "Ice and Snow, Fairy Tale World," expanding to a record-breaking 1.2 million square meters. The park is organized around three themed routes: "Ice City Memory" traces Harbin's urban heritage from the main gate modeled after the old railway station; the art and performance axis winds past zodiac ice sculptures to the Dream Stage; and the Fairy Tale Kingdom route blends international cultural elements from Belgium, Shandong, Fujian, and Shenzhen. It's a lot to take in, but that's kind of the point.

Entertainment has levelled up! New this year is a “dual stage plus grand parade” format, and the fantasy show “King’s Chariot” returns with improved effects and a larger cast. As usual, themed parades snake through the entire park at regular intervals during the day. TripAdvisor visitors say it’s “absolutely worth braving the cold” but recommend you stagger in after 8 PM when crowds are more manageable and certain lighting effects are heightened. There’s something almost soothing about watching the ice city slowly surrender in its desires late at night when it’s less crowded.

Practical Information:

• 📍 Address: Sun Island West Area, Songbei District, Harbin
• ⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
• 💰 Price: Starting from ¥261 for Entry
• ⚠️ Tip: Temperatures inside can drop to -30°C. Bring hand warmers for your phone—batteries drain fast in extreme cold.

Songhua River Winter Carnival — Play on a Frozen Highway

Each winter the Songhua River freezes solid and becomes Harbin’s largest playground. Locals and tourists alike head for the ice to revel in winter activities that have been around for generations; you can dash about on horse-drawn sleighs, twirl about in ice chairs or race mates in snow tubes. The atmosphere is contagious fun!

To gain some perspective on what goes down daily over the smooth expanse, cross the Songhua River in one of the cabins of the Songhua River Cable Car. The 30-cabin system is also useful for crossing the river to Sun Island. A single ticket costs ¥60, and for a round-trip ticket, pay ¥96.

What makes this experience special is how accessible it is. Unlike ticketed attractions, many activities on the frozen river are free or very affordable. It's the kind of place where you can spend an entire afternoon without a strict itinerary—just wandering, playing, and soaking in the local winter culture.

Yabuli Ski Resort — Where China Learns to Ski

Yabuli is the most famous ski resort in China, just about 200km from Harbin, and is a must-see in China if you’re a keen skier. Plenty of slopes are available for complete novices through to the most competent of skiers and snowboarders. The resort runs an ‘ ecology + sports + culture’ programme, and in warmer months runs professional competitions, including cross-country races and cycling events.

The skiing facilities at the resort are up-to-date and international standard, with a number of different runs zigzagging down the mountainside. You can also hire equipment at the resort. A 3hour ski pass starts from ¥172, which is fairly reasonable compared to Europe and North America. If you want to try your hand at skiing but don’t know the first thing about it, you can book an instructor.

Practical Information:

• 📍 Address: National Road 333, Shangzhi City, Harbin
• 💰 3-Hour Ski Pass: From ¥172
• 🚗 Getting There: Approximately 3 hours by car from Harbin; shuttle buses available

Sun Island and Snow Sculpture Art

Sun Island is where China's snow sculpture tradition began. This scenic area across the Songhua River from downtown Harbin has become synonymous with artistic winter displays and remains one of the top things to do in Heilongjiang for art lovers and families alike.

Sun Island Scenic Area — An Open-Air Snow Gallery

Every winter, sculptors from over 30 countries travel to Sun Island to create massive snow artworks. These aren't simple snowmen—we're talking about 20-meter-tall dragons, life-sized replicas of famous buildings, and intricate scenes that take weeks to complete. The International Snow Sculpture Art Expo held here is one of the largest events of its kind in the world.

The experience is different going by day and going by night. In daylight each sculpture can be appreciated for its detail and intricacy. When it goes dark, the snow city is bathed in colorful carried lights which completely changes the character of the city. Those who’ve done both cheerfully admit that if there’s time to fit it in, both day and night visits should be done. They’re quite different experiences.

Beyond the sculptures, Sun Island offers other things to do, such as snowmobile rides and snow golf. The area is quite scenic and large enough to be comfortable exploring for a half-day. The crowds are not as dense as at Ice and Snow World, but it’s just as stunning in it’s own right and merits a visit.

China Snow Town (Xuexiang) — A Fairytale Village

Located in Hailin City under Mudanjiang, China Snow Town is one of Heilongjiang’s most photographed destinations. China gets tons of snow, but China Snow Town has unusual snow that’s especially sticky, piling up to thick mounds on rooftops and fences like mushrooms. When red lanterns glow in the dusk, the entire hamlet looks like it’s been spirited into being from children’s storybook.

Wooden houses in the village are now guesthouses and restaurants. The village attraction is just walking through narrow paths amid snow-covered homes. Many photographers enjoy catching the village in its early morning state after fresh snowfall and before the bulk of tourists arrive.

Practical Information:

• 📍 Address: Shuangfeng Forest Farm, Hailin City, Mudanjiang
• 💡 Best Time to Visit: December through February
• 📸 Photography Tip: Arrive before 7 AM for the best shots of untouched snow

Russian-Style Heritage and Heilongjiang Cities

Heilongjiang's proximity to Russia has shaped its architecture, cuisine, and cultural identity for over a century. Exploring this Russian influence is one of the most distinctive things to do in Heilongjiang, especially in Harbin.

Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) — Walk Through European History

Central Street is Harbin's most famous pedestrian avenue and a living museum of European architecture. This 1.4-kilometer cobblestone street features over 100 buildings constructed in Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles. Most were built during the early 20th century when Russian influence in the region was at its peak. Today, the street buzzes with shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

No visit to Central Street is complete without sampling a Madier ice cream bar. That’s correct, locals eat ice cream at -20°C—there’s over 100 years of history behind this Harbin tradition, and the crispy, creamy, cold combination somehow always tastes better in subzero temperatures. Nearby, Huamei Western Restaurant serves up traditional Russian fare including borscht, beef stroganoff and caviar.

The architecture here gives away the reason behind Harbin’s moniker: “The Oriental Moscow.” Walk down Central Street and you’ll start to doubt if you’re really in China at all. Ice sculptures and snow displays are erected on Central Street again from November to February making it even more photogenic!

Border City Adventures — Heihe and Beyond

For a more adventurous experience, head to Heihe, a city that sits directly across the Heilong River from the Russian city of Blagoveshchensk. On clear days, you can see Russian buildings from the Chinese riverbank. This "twin cities" relationship creates a fascinating cultural blend that you won't find elsewhere in China.

Further east, Hegang City offers cruises through the "Three Gorges of Heilongjiang River," widely considered the most beautiful section of the Heilong River. The cruise passes through Longmen Gorge, Jinlong Gorge, and Jinman Gorge, with views of both Chinese and Russian landscapes. It's a unique way to experience the border region and understand the geographical relationship between the two countries.

Natural Wonders and Ecological Exploration

Beyond ice and snow, Heilongjiang offers remarkable natural attractions. The province's volcanic landscapes, nature reserves, and wetlands represent some of the best ecological tourism in northeastern China.

Wudalianchi Geopark — Fire and Ice Meet

Both a UNESCO Global Geopark and a Biosphere Reserve, Wudalianchi is a geologically rich park which plays host to 14 volcanoes as well as being home to the three largest cold mineral springs in the world together with Vichy in France and Narzan in Russia.

The main draw card is Laohei Mountain, 515.9 m in elevation, an extinct volcano whose summit can be accessed via hike to the rim of the crater. All around the dome, hardened runnelling lava and gnarled trees make for a dramatic vista, but of particular beauty is the Wenbo Lake in winter. Here, hot springs never allows the water to freeze, even when the temperature drops to of -30 degrees centigrade. Rising from the unfrozen lake are vapors which form spectacular natural frosts on ambient trees, a sight locals refer to euphorically as ‘entering a fairyland’.

Practical Information:

• 📍 Location: Wudalianchi City, Heihe
• 🌡️ Winter Highlight: Wenbo Lake's non-freezing waters and frost scenery
• 💧 Bonus: Taste the mineral spring water, believed to have health benefits

Zhalong Nature Reserve — Dance with Red-Crowned Cranes

Zhalong is the world’s largest red-crowned crane breeding ground. It is a endangered species in Chinese known as a symbol of longevity. The reserve is very well preserved, covering over 2,100 square kilometers of wetlands, and sees hundreds of pairs drop in. Feed time is the best opportune time to see these graceful creatures unfurl their wings and take flight, a moving experience to witness first hand.

The best time for viewing is between April and October when the cranes are active. Guided tours and observation platforms are set in the best spots to view the action without the cranes being disturbed. Wildlife enthusiasts would put this as easily one of the best things to do in Heilongjiang other than winter fun.

Heixiazi Island Wetland Park

Heixiazi Island features a 2,256-meter floating wooden boardwalk that winds through pristine wetland ecosystems. The park offers opportunities to observe native wildlife including Asiatic black bears in natural habitats. The boardwalk design minimizes environmental impact while giving visitors close-up access to landscapes that few tourists ever see.

Heilongjiang Cuisine: A Feast for the Brave

Food in Heilongjiang reflects the province's harsh climate and diverse cultural influences. Portions are large, flavors are bold, and Russian dishes appear alongside traditional northeastern Chinese cooking.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Category	Signature Dishes	Where to Try
Harbin Specialties	Guobaorou (sweet crispy pork), Xueyi Dousha (snow-coated red bean dessert)	Laochujia Daotai Restaurant
Russian Cuisine	Russian steak, borscht, caviar	Huamei Western Restaurant, Portman Restaurant
River Fish	Sasheng fish, Demoli stewed fish	Fuyuan "First Village of Longjiang"
Street Food	Madier ice cream, Qiulin Lidaosi sausage	Central Street, Hongzhuan Street Morning Market

Guobaorou deserves special attention. This crispy pork dish with sweet and sour sauce originated in Harbin and tastes completely different from versions you might have tried elsewhere. The Harbin style uses a lighter, tangier sauce that perfectly complements the crunchy exterior. After spending hours in freezing temperatures, sitting down to a plate of hot Guobaorou feels like pure comfort.

For adventurous eaters, try Sasheng fish—a traditional Hezhe ethnic dish of raw fish similar to Japanese sashimi but with distinctly local seasonings. The fish comes fresh from the Heilong and Ussuri rivers and represents centuries of fishing culture.

Practical Travel Tips for Heilongjiang

Weather and What to Pack

Season	Temperature Range	What to Bring
Winter (Dec–Feb)	-20°C to -30°C	Heavy down jacket, thermal underwear, insulated boots, hat, gloves, hand warmers
Spring (Mar–May)	Variable, cold mornings	Layered clothing, light down jacket
Summer (Jun–Aug)	Around 19°C average	Long sleeves, light jacket for evenings
Autumn (Sep–Nov)	Cooling rapidly	Warm layers, especially after October

Essential Winter Tips:

• Prevent Phone Battery Failure: Stick hand warmers to the back of your phone. The heat will help maintain the battery's temperature, which can significantly extend its operational life in cold conditions.

• Stay Safe and Dry: Wear moisture-wicking base layers. This type of clothing moves sweat away from your skin. Sweating followed by freezing is dangerous, as the cold, wet layer can rapidly drop your core body temperature.

• Protect Camera Gear: To prevent damage, protect your camera equipment from condensation when moving between a cold outdoor environment and a heated indoor space. A good method is to seal the equipment in a plastic bag before coming inside and let it warm up slowly in the bag.

Getting Around Heilongjiang

Harbin Taiping International Airport connects Heilongjiang to major Asian cities including flights to Russia, Japan, and South Korea. Within the province, high-speed rail links Harbin to Daqing and Qiqihar efficiently. For remote areas like Snow Town or Wudalianchi, hiring a private driver or joining a tour group is often the most practical option.

Language and Payment

The "Butterfly Cloud Valley – China-Russia Pass" app supports instant translation in Chinese, English, Russian, Japanese, and Korean. It also provides attraction guides and trip planning features—highly useful for foreign visitors. Mobile payment (Alipay, WeChat Pay) works in most urban areas, but carry cash for rural destinations and border regions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heilongjiang Travel

Q: What is the best time to visit Heilongjiang?

For ice and snow experiences, visit between December and February when temperatures drop enough to maintain the ice sculptures and frozen river activities. The Harbin Ice and Snow World typically opens in late December and runs through early March. If you prefer milder weather, summer (June to August) offers pleasant temperatures averaging around 19°C—Heilongjiang is actually a popular domestic escape from the heat of southern China during these months. For volcano and nature exploration, September and October provide comfortable hiking conditions with beautiful autumn foliage.

Q: How cold does Heilongjiang get in winter?

Winter temperatures in Heilongjiang typically range from -20°C to -30°C, with the coldest recorded temperature reaching -52.3°C in Mohe. However, don't let this scare you away. Indoor spaces throughout the province have excellent central heating, usually maintaining comfortable temperatures around 20°C. The key is dressing properly for outdoor activities—layered thermal clothing, insulated boots, and accessories to protect exposed skin.

Q: Is Heilongjiang safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Heilongjiang is generally very safe for solo travelers, including women traveling alone. Harbin and other major cities have low crime rates, and locals are typically welcoming toward foreign visitors. The main safety concerns are weather-related rather than crime-related: protecting yourself from extreme cold, watching for slippery ice on sidewalks, and ensuring your electronics don't fail in low temperatures.

Q: Can I see the Northern Lights in Heilongjiang?

Mohe, located in Heilongjiang's far north, is the only place in China where you have a chance to see the aurora borealis. The best viewing window is from December through February on clear, dark nights away from city lights. However, sightings are not guaranteed—the Northern Lights depend on solar activity and weather conditions. If seeing auroras is your primary goal, Arctic Village (Beijicun) near Mohe offers the darkest skies and most organized viewing opportunities.

Q: What's the difference between Harbin Ice Festival and Snow Town?

These are two completely different experiences despite both featuring frozen water. Harbin Ice and Snow World is a massive urban theme park with man-made ice sculptures lit by colorful LED lights—think carved ice castles, slides, and performances on a grand scale. Snow Town (Xuexiang) is a small rural village where natural snowfall accumulates on traditional wooden houses, creating an organic, fairy-tale atmosphere. Ice and Snow World impresses with scale and technology; Snow Town charms with authenticity and natural beauty.

Q: How do I get from Harbin to Snow Town?

Snow Town is located about 280 kilometers from Harbin, and the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours by road. The most convenient option for tourists is booking a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation, which typically costs ¥150-300 depending on the package. Independent travelers can take a bus from Harbin to Hailin or Mudanjiang, then transfer to a local vehicle heading to Shuangfeng Forest Farm (Snow Town's official name).