6 Days Beijing Harbin Winter Ice Festival Tour

Today, embark on a journey through Beijing's historic sites that showcase its imperial grandeur.

Morning:

1. Tian’anmen Square – Begin your day by visiting Tian'anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. It is a symbol of China's modern history and has witnessed countless significant events. You can take iconic photos of the grand Tiananmen Gate, which is seen daily on CCTV news broadcasts.
2. Forbidden City – Walk across the square to the Forbidden City, the former home of China’s emperors. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast palace complex consists of over 8,700 rooms and spans nearly 180 acres. It served as the political center of China for over 500 years. As you stroll through the central axis, you’ll pass by majestic halls and courtyards, learning about the stories of Chinese emperors and their court life. Don’t forget to visit the Imperial Garden, filled with beautiful trees and pavilions.

Afternoon: 3. Jingshan Park – Just a short walk from the Forbidden City, climb to the top of Jingshan Park for a stunning panoramic view of Beijing. Here, you can enjoy a great view of the Forbidden City with the city skyline in the background.

1. Temple of Heaven – In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Heaven, where Chinese emperors once prayed for good harvests. The temple complex features brilliant architecture and interesting structures, such as the Echo Wall and the Triple Sound Stones. It’s a great place to relax and watch local people practice Tai Chi or other traditional exercises.

Dining:

• Breakfast and lunch included.

Accommodation:

• Overnight stay in Beijing.

Today, venture beyond the city to explore two of China’s most iconic attractions: the Great Wall and the Summer Palace.

Morning:

1. Mutianyu Great Wall – Depart for the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, located about 1.5-2 hours north of Beijing. Mutianyu is less crowded compared to other parts of the Wall and offers stunning views and well-preserved sections. You can take a cable car to the 14th watchtower and enjoy a peaceful hike along the western route of the wall, where you’ll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes of green forests and rugged mountains. If you're up for a challenge, continue climbing up to the 20th watchtower for even better views.

Afternoon: 2. Summer Palace – After lunch, visit the Summer Palace, a royal retreat during the Qing Dynasty. This imperial garden offers spectacular landscapes, with its man-made Kunming Lake surrounded by majestic pavilions, bridges, and temples. Take a leisurely walk around the area, stopping to admire the ornate Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the Long Corridor (a covered walkway with painted artwork), and enjoy a boat ride on the lake if the weather permits.

Dining:

• Breakfast and lunch included.

Accommodation:

• Overnight stay in Beijing.

Say goodbye to Beijing and board a high-speed train to Harbin, China’s "Ice City" in northeastern Heilongjiang Province.

Morning:

• You will be escorted to the train station for your high-speed train to Harbin, a journey that takes approximately 5-6.5 hours.

Afternoon:

• Upon arrival in Harbin, your tour guide and driver will meet you at the train station and escort you to your hotel in downtown Harbin. Once you’ve checked in, take some time to rest or venture out for a brief exploration of the local area.

Free Time:

• If time permits, enjoy the winter atmosphere of Harbin's pedestrian streets, perhaps visiting Zhongyang Street or the famous Saint Sophia Cathedral.

Accommodation:

• Overnight stay in Harbin.

Harbin is famous for its winter festivals, ice sculptures, and unique winter wildlife. Today, you will experience the magic of Harbin in winter.

Morning:

1. Siberian Tiger Park – Begin the day with a visit to the Siberian Tiger Park, the world’s largest natural reserve dedicated to the conservation of the Siberian tiger. In this park, you can observe these majestic creatures up close. The park allows you to ride in cage-style sightseeing vehicles, where you can safely watch tigers in a simulated natural habitat. For an even more thrilling experience, you can feed the tigers (at your own expense), an unforgettable moment as these magnificent creatures reach up on their hind legs to grasp the food.

Afternoon: 2. Sun Island – Next, visit Sun Island to explore the Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, a winter wonderland filled with massive snow sculptures crafted by artists from around the world. The details in these sculptures are breathtaking, from animals to castles and abstract shapes, all carved out of snow. Enjoy the beauty of the winter landscape and participate in some ice activities if you like.

1. Harbin Ice and Snow World – After Sun Island, head to the Ice and Snow World, the highlight of Harbin’s Ice and Snow Festival. This is a dreamlike world made entirely of ice and snow, where you can see towering castles, animals, and even entire buildings, all illuminated with colorful lights. If you’re adventurous, try out some thrilling activities like ice tubing, ice go-karting, or even ride the Snowflake Ferris Wheel.

Dining:

• Breakfast and lunch included.

Accommodation:

• Overnight stay in Harbin.

Your last day in Harbin will be filled with local experiences and cultural immersion.

Morning:

1. Hongzhuan Street Morning Market – Visit the Hongzhuan Street morning market to sample local snacks and get a taste of daily life in Harbin. Try northeastern specialties like flatbreads, tofu pudding, and fried dough cakes. The market is vibrant and gives you a chance to observe the hustle and bustle of local culture.
2. Winter Swimming Show – Head to the Snowman Pier at the Bund to witness the daring winter swimming performance. Watch as enthusiastic swimmers dive into the frigid waters and glide gracefully through the ice-cold river, an experience unique to Harbin’s winter culture.

Afternoon: 3. St. Sophia Cathedral – Visit this beautiful Russian Orthodox cathedral, one of Harbin’s most iconic landmarks. Its stunning architecture, with a green onion dome and intricate red-brick façade, stands out against the winter backdrop.

1. Zhongyang Pedestrian Street – Stroll along this historic street, lined with buildings in a mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Russian-inspired styles. It's a great place to shop for local handicrafts or try some traditional Harbin sausages.
2. Lao Daowai – End your day at Lao Daowai, Harbin’s historical district known for its “Chinese Baroque” architecture. Here, you can explore old shops, sample traditional snacks, and experience Harbin’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Departure:

• In the late afternoon or evening, your guide will escort you to the airport or train station for your departure.