Private City Tour of Harbin in Winter
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Catch the highlights of Harbin in winter, including the famous Harbin Ice Festival, on this 8-hour private tour. Discover Harbin's Russian heritage at St. Sophia Cathedral and Zhongyang Pedestrian Street, then visit the festival's largest arena, Harbin Ice and Snow World, and choose to catch a winter swimming show. Tour includes lunch.
Available options
Private City Tour of Harbin in Winter
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Entrance fee charge of sites
Transport by private vehicle
English and Chinese speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your private guide in your Harbin hotel lobby at 9am. It's a short drive to the impressive St. Sophia Cathedral, which combines Byzantine-style architecture with Russian folk architecture, and embodies Harbin's rich Russian heritage.
2
Not far from here is the heart of Harbin, Zhongyang Street, a pedestrian paved street lined with European-style buildings and studded with small ice sculptures. First renovated in 1996, this was one of China's first commercial pedestrian streets.
After a short stroll along Zhongyang Street, enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant.
3
After lunch comes the highlight of the day, a visit to the world-famous Harbin Ice Festival. You'll head to the main display area, Ice and Snow World, which is home to a spectacular array of ice statues, ice castles, ice slides, and snow sculptures. After you've explored you can choose to take part in ice activities, from skating and skiing to riding ice bikes or drinking in an ice bar, or see Harbin winter swimming.
Every winter, swimming pools are hacked out of the ice on the frozen Songhua River, and locals brave temperatures often as low as -4° Fahrenheit (-20° Centigrade) to dive and swim in them, typically from ice steps. You'll be grateful for your warm winter wear as you watch!
At the end of the afternoon, you'll be transferred back to your Harbin hotel, arriving around 5pm.
What's not included
Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Passport names, passport numbers, date of birth and country is required at time of booking for all participants: please also provide a cellphone number for emergency contacts
Important notes
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to the border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
• Please provide your cell phone number so that we can contact you just for in case
• Please provide all of the people's date of birth, full passport names and passport numbers, we need this information for buying travel insurance and entrance tickets of tourist attractions for you, and this information must be 100% match with your passports on tour day
About Harbin
Harbin is renowned for its annual International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the world's largest ice festival. The city is a unique blend of Chinese and Russian influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural heritage. Harbin's cold winters and warm summers create a distinct seasonal experience for visitors.
Top Attractions
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival
The world's largest ice and snow festival, featuring stunning ice sculptures, snow slides, and ice lanterns. The festival transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland.
Cultural/Entertainment
1-3 days
Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees
Saint Sophia Cathedral
A stunning example of Russian architecture in Harbin, this cathedral was built in 1907 and now serves as a museum.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
¥30
Sun Island
A scenic park on the Songhua River, famous for its sunrises and ice sculptures during the festival. The park features walking trails, ski slopes, and a ski resort.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees
Zhaolin Park
A large park on the banks of the Songhua River, known for its ice and snow sculptures during the festival. The park also features a ski resort and walking trails.
Nature/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees
Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie)
A historic street featuring a mix of Russian and Chinese architecture, shops, and restaurants. The street is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Cultural/Shopping
1-2 hours
Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dongbei Dumplings (Harbin-style)
Large, thick-skinned dumplings filled with pork, cabbage, and spices. They are typically served with a vinegar and chili oil dipping sauce.
Dinner
Contains pork and gluten
Borscht
A Russian beet soup made with beef, cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Pelmeni
Russian dumplings filled with minced meat (usually pork or beef) and served with sour cream or butter.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Hot Pot
A popular Chinese dish featuring a communal pot of simmering broth in which ingredients like meat, vegetables, and noodles are cooked. Harbin-style hot pot often includes a spicy broth and a variety of local ingredients.
Dinner
Vegetarian and meat options available
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Sledding
Snowmobiling
Hiking
Shopping
Dining
Spas
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Winter)
This is the best time to visit for the Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and winter activities. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, snow slides, and ice lanterns.
-20°C to -5°C
-4°F to 23°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese
- Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Harbin is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Harbin Taiping International Airport • 35 km from city center
By train
Harbin Railway Station, Harbin West Railway Station
By bus
Harbin Long-Distance Bus Station, Harbin West Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Daoli District
Nangang District
Songbei District
Day trips
Yabuli Ski Resort
110 km from Harbin • Full day
A popular ski resort featuring a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort is also home to a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Wuchang God of Wealth Temple
30 km from Harbin • Half day
A historic temple dedicated to the God of Wealth, featuring a variety of religious artifacts and architectural features. The temple is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, particularly during the Lunar New Year.
Mudanjiang
150 km from Harbin • Full day
A city known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions, including the Mudanjiang National Forest Park and the Mudanjiang Museum. The city is also home to a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Festivals
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival • Late December to late February
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival • Late December to late February
Harbin Summer Music Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit during the winter months to experience the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the world's largest ice and snow festival
- Try local specialties like Harbin-style dumplings, borscht, and pelmeni, which reflect the city's unique blend of Chinese and Russian influences
- Explore the city's historic Russian and European architecture, including the Saint Sophia Cathedral and the Central Street
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Yabuli Ski Resort, Wuchang God of Wealth Temple, or Mudanjiang National Forest Park
- Use public transport or walk to explore the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be limited
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
