7 Days Harbin and Snow Town Ice Festival & Skiing Group Tour

After breakfast, begin your unforgettable winter exploration in Harbin.

Siberian Tiger Park (东北虎林园)

Your first stop is the famous Siberian Tiger Park (东北虎林园), the largest Siberian tiger conservation park in the world. Located on the northern bank of the Songhua River (松花江), the park is home to nearly 1,000 purebred Northeast Siberian tigers.

Unlike ordinary zoos, visitors explore the park inside secure sightseeing vehicles while observing tigers roaming freely through large snowy forest habitats. You may see powerful tigers resting calmly in the snow, playing with one another, or suddenly sprinting across the frozen ground. The experience offers thrilling close-up encounters with one of the world’s most majestic predators.

Visitors can also choose an optional tiger-feeding experience at their own expense, watching these massive animals leap toward the vehicle for food. Besides Siberian tigers, the park also houses lions, ligers, and leopards.

Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo (太阳岛雪博会)

Next, continue to Sun Island (太阳岛), one of the most important venues of the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. Every winter, the island hosts the spectacular Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, featuring gigantic snow sculptures created by artists from around the world.

Walking through the snow sculpture park feels like entering a fantasy kingdom carved entirely from snow. Massive castles, mythical creatures, famous landmarks, cartoon figures, and intricate artistic creations rise from the snowy landscape. The craftsmanship is astonishing, especially the fine details carved into faces, clothing, animals, and architectural decorations.

Besides the sculptures, visitors can enjoy various snow entertainment activities and photography opportunities throughout the scenic area.

Optional Activity:
Travelers interested in polar animals may visit Harbin Polarland (哈尔滨极地馆) nearby at additional cost, where you can see polar bears, penguins, beluga whales, and sea lions.

Harbin Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界)

In the afternoon and evening, visit the world-famous Harbin Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界), the highlight of Harbin’s winter tourism and one of the largest ice-and-snow theme parks on earth.

Built entirely from giant blocks of ice harvested from the frozen Songhua River, the park features enormous illuminated ice castles, bridges, towers, slides, sculptures, and fantasy-themed structures. During daylight, the crystal-clear ice glows beautifully under the winter sun. After sunset, the park transforms into a magical world of colorful lights and glowing ice architecture.

You can also enjoy various winter activities inside the park, including:

• Giant ice slides
• Snow tubing
• Ice bicycles
• Ice karting
• Snowflake Ferris Wheel
• Ice discos and winter performances

The giant super ice slide is one of the park’s most exciting attractions, offering thrilling speed while surrounded by spectacular frozen scenery.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Harbin.

Accommodation: Harbin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today focuses on Harbin’s local culture, historical architecture, winter traditions, and authentic northeastern lifestyle.

Hongzhuan Street Morning Market (红砖街早市)

Begin the day at the lively Hongzhuan Street Morning Market (红砖街早市), one of Harbin’s most authentic local markets. Early mornings here are full of energy as residents gather to buy fresh ingredients and enjoy hot traditional breakfasts during the freezing winter.

You’ll discover a wide variety of local snacks and specialties, including:

• Northeastern flatbread (东北大饼)
• Fried sticky rice cakes (油炸糕)
• Tofu pudding (豆腐脑)
• Sticky bean buns (粘豆包)
• Pork stew with vermicelli (猪肉炖粉条)
• Chicken stewed with mushrooms (小鸡炖蘑菇)

The market provides an excellent opportunity to observe local daily life and experience the warm, lively personality of Northeastern Chinese culture.

Winter Swimming Show at Snowman Pier (外滩雪人码头)

Next, head to the frozen riverside area known as Snowman Pier (外滩雪人码头) to witness Harbin’s famous winter swimming performance.

Even in temperatures far below freezing, brave winter swimmers dive into icy waters cut through the frozen Songhua River. The performance demonstrates remarkable endurance and has become one of Harbin’s most unique winter traditions. Spectators gather around cheering enthusiastically as swimmers emerge from the freezing water surrounded by snow and ice.

Saint Sophia Cathedral (圣·索菲亚教堂)

Continue to the iconic Saint Sophia Cathedral (圣·索菲亚教堂), Harbin’s most recognizable landmark. Built in Russian Orthodox style, the cathedral features elegant red-brick walls, green onion domes, and beautiful Byzantine-inspired architecture.

Inside, the cathedral now serves as the Harbin Architecture Art Museum, showcasing the city’s multicultural history and architectural development. During snowy weather, the cathedral becomes especially photogenic, looking like a scene from a winter fairy tale.

Zhongyang Pedestrian Street (中央大街)

Next, stroll along the famous Zhongyang Pedestrian Street (中央大街), Harbin’s most vibrant historic avenue. Stretching over 1,400 meters, this century-old street is lined with beautifully preserved European-style buildings in Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles.

Along the street, you can shop for souvenirs, enjoy local snacks, admire winter decorations, and experience Harbin’s unique cultural atmosphere. Recommended local treats include:

• Maidel Ice Cream (马迭尔冰棍)
• Harbin Red Sausage (哈尔滨红肠)
• Russian Bread (大列巴)
• Qiulin Kvass (秋林格瓦斯)

Stalin Park (斯大林公园) & Songhua River

At the end of Central Street lies Stalin Park (斯大林公园) beside the frozen Songhua River. In winter, the riverside transforms into a lively outdoor winter activity area where locals enjoy sledding, skating, ice bicycles, and snow entertainment.

Lao Daowai (老道外)

Finally, visit historic Lao Daowai (老道外), the oldest district of Harbin and the birthplace of the city’s famous “Chinese Baroque” architecture. The neighborhood combines Western-style building facades with traditional Chinese courtyard layouts, reflecting Harbin’s multicultural heritage.

Walking through Lao Daowai feels like stepping back in time. Old shops, traditional snack stalls, vintage storefronts, and narrow streets preserve the nostalgic atmosphere of old Harbin.

After the tour, transfer back to your hotel.

Accommodation: Harbin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, leave Harbin and begin a scenic winter journey toward the famous China Snow Town (中国雪乡), officially known as Shuangfeng Forest Farm (大海林局双峰林场). Located deep within the forested mountains of Mudanjiang (牡丹江), Snow Town is approximately 300 kilometers from Harbin and is regarded as one of the most beautiful snow destinations in China.

The drive takes around 5 to 6 hours, but the route itself is part of the adventure, passing endless snowy forests, frozen rivers, and traditional northeastern villages covered in thick snow.

Datudingzi Mountain (大秃顶子山)

Along the way, enjoy an exciting snowmobile adventure on Datudingzi Mountain (大秃顶子山), the highest mountain in Heilongjiang Province (黑龙江省) with an elevation of approximately 1,690 meters.

Ride powerful snowmobiles through vast snowfields and dense forest trails while surrounded by spectacular winter scenery. The mountain landscape is especially impressive in winter, with rolling white peaks, frosted trees, and misty valleys creating a breathtaking snow-world panorama.

Depending on weather and snow conditions, travelers may ascend the summit by:

• Snowmobile only
• Snowmobile combined with the “Snow Dragon” tracked snowcat

From the mountaintop viewing area, you can admire panoramic views of the endless snow-covered mountains stretching across Northeast China.

Ten-Mile Ice & Snow Gallery (十里冰雪画廊)

Next, continue to the beautiful Ten-Mile Ice and Snow Gallery (十里冰雪画廊), a pristine winter forest area famous for its natural snow landscapes and frozen scenery.

Walk through quiet forest trails surrounded by:

• Snow mushrooms
• Rime-covered trees
• Snow drifts
• Ice formations
• Thick untouched powder snow

The forest looks like a magical frozen kingdom straight from a winter fairy tale. The area is also home to several entertaining winter activities.

You may experience:

• Snow drifting rides
• Snow spinner rides
• “Snow Dragon” long sled rides
• Encounters with animals such as black bears and roe deer at the Alpine Zoo

This area is especially popular among photographers thanks to its pure natural snow scenery and dreamy winter atmosphere.

China Snow Town Night View (中国雪乡夜景)

By late afternoon, arrive at the legendary China Snow Town (中国雪乡), one of China’s most iconic winter photography destinations.

Snow Town is famous for receiving some of the heaviest snowfall in China, with average snow depths reaching nearly 2 meters. Due to the sticky quality of the snow, rooftops become covered in thick rounded layers that resemble giant cream cakes or fluffy mushrooms.

As night falls, the village transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. Warm red lanterns illuminate the snow-covered wooden houses while smoke rises gently from chimneys into the cold night air. The magical combination of snow, lights, and quiet mountain scenery creates an unforgettable fairy-tale atmosphere.

From the observation deck, enjoy panoramic night views over the illuminated village and snowy valley below.

Tonight, stay in a traditional local guesthouse and experience the warmth of a northeastern Chinese “kang” room — a heated brick bed system designed for extremely cold winters.

Accommodation: Snow Town Local Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

If weather permits, photography enthusiasts may choose an optional early morning excursion to witness sunrise over Snow Town.

Optional Sunrise at Yangcao Mountain (羊草山)

Located northwest of Snow Town, Yangcao Mountain (羊草山) sits at an elevation of approximately 1,350 meters and offers one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the region.

As the sun rises slowly over the snow-covered mountains, golden light spreads across the white landscape, creating incredible opportunities for photography. In certain weather conditions, you may also see:

• Rime ice
• Frost-covered forests
• Snow hanging from tree branches
• Sea-of-cloud scenery

Travelers may hike independently or take an optional 4WD transfer to the viewpoint.

Snowy Street (雪韵大街)

After breakfast, explore the famous Snowy Street (雪韵大街), the heart of China Snow Town.

The charming street is lined with:

• Traditional wooden houses
• Red lanterns
• Local snack shops
• Handmade souvenir stores
• Snow-covered rooftops resembling giant marshmallows

As you stroll through the village, immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Northeast China’s snow-country culture.

You can sample many local winter specialties such as:

• Frozen pears
• Frozen persimmons
• Sticky bean buns (粘豆包)
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Northeastern-style hot snacks

The entire village feels like a real-life winter fairy tale and is one of the most photogenic places in Northeast China.

Bangchui Mountain Observation Deck (棒槌山观景台)

Continue to Bangchui Mountain Observation Deck (棒槌山观景台) for a panoramic aerial view over Snow Town.

From the top, admire:

• Thick snow blanketing rooftops
• Smoke curling from chimneys
• Endless snowy forests
• The winding village streets below

The peaceful scenery perfectly captures the charm of rural winter life in northern China.

Drive to Yabuli (亚布力)

In the afternoon, depart Snow Town and drive approximately 2 hours to Yabuli (亚布力), China’s most famous ski destination.

Traditional Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride (马拉爬犁)

Upon arrival, experience a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride (马拉爬犁) through snowy birch forests and countryside trails.

This nostalgic winter activity offers a glimpse into traditional northeastern transportation methods once widely used during heavy winter snowfalls.

Deep within the forest, travelers can also enjoy:

• Snowball fights
• Building snowmen
• Snow tubing
• Snow bumper activities
• Snow football games

The peaceful snowy environment combined with fun winter entertainment creates a joyful and authentic northeastern winter experience.

Accommodation: Yabuli
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today is dedicated to winter sports at the famous Yabuli Ski Resort (亚布力滑雪场), the largest and most prestigious ski resort in China.

Located among the forested mountains of Northeast China, Yabuli is known for:

• Long snow seasons
• Excellent snow quality
• Modern ski facilities
• International ski competitions
• Beautiful alpine scenery

The resort enjoys snow coverage for nearly 170 days each year, making it one of China’s premier winter sports destinations.

3-Hour Beginner Skiing Experience

Today, enjoy a beginner-friendly 3-hour skiing experience designed for travelers with little or no skiing background.

The package includes:

• Skis
• Ski poles
• Ski boots
• Access to beginner ski slopes

Professional staff at the resort will assist with equipment fitting and provide basic skiing guidance before you begin.

As you glide across the snow-covered slopes, experience the excitement of winter sports while surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. The gentle beginner slopes allow first-time skiers to safely enjoy:

• Learning balance and turning techniques
• Sliding across fresh powder snow
• Taking in panoramic snowy mountain views
• Enjoying the fresh mountain air

For experienced skiers, optional upgrades to intermediate or advanced slopes are available at additional cost.

Additional Winter Activities

Besides skiing, Yabuli also offers optional winter entertainment activities including:

• Snowmobiles
• Snow tubing
• Cable cars
• Snow rafting
• Winter photography
• Forest sightseeing

Skiing Tips

For comfort and safety, travelers are advised to:

• Wear layered winter clothing
• Use waterproof gloves and snow boots
• Wear helmets and goggles
• Keep phones and batteries warm in cold temperatures

After lunch, depart Yabuli and drive approximately 3 hours back to Harbin (哈尔滨).

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy your final evening in the Ice City.

Accommodation: Harbin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today marks the end of your unforgettable winter adventure in Harbin (哈尔滨) and Northeast China.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your departure schedule. You may choose to take a final stroll through nearby streets, purchase souvenirs, or simply relax and enjoy the last moments in China’s famous “Ice City.”

At the appointed time, your driver will transfer you comfortably to Harbin Taiping International Airport (哈尔滨太平国际机场) or the railway station for your onward journey.

As your journey comes to an end, you will leave with unforgettable memories of:

• The dazzling ice palaces of Harbin Ice and Snow World (冰雪大世界)
• The magical snowy landscapes of China Snow Town (中国雪乡)
• Exciting skiing experiences in Yabuli Ski Resort (亚布力滑雪场)
• Authentic northeastern Chinese culture and cuisine
• Traditional winter activities and breathtaking snow scenery

Thank you for traveling with Asia Odyssey Travel on this memorable winter group tour. We hope your time in Harbin has been filled with adventure, laughter, and incredible experiences.

We look forward to welcoming you again on your next journey through China and Asia.

Have a safe and pleasant trip home!

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: None
Transportation: Hotel to airport or railway station transfer