Name: Harbin

Chinese name: 哈尔滨

Province: Heilongjiang

Status: Sub-provincial city

Population: 10,635,971

Area: 53,775 km²

Harbin, or Haerbin, is the capital of Heilongjiang province in northern Chine. Harbin is also known as the Ice City, a name earned through its spectacular ice and snow festival that draws visitors from across Chine and around the world each year. Harbin ranks among the 10 largest cities in Chine and serves as a vital economic, political, and cultural hub of the country's northeast.

History

The modern city of Harbin was founded in 1896, when Russian interests negotiated the construction of a railway connecting Vladivostok to Harbin and Dalian. Russian workers soon flooded the region, setting the stage for waves of Russian refugees who established themselves here. Despite Japan's military victory over Russia, the city remained under Russian influence until World War II. Nevertheless, Harbin experienced an international boom, attracting emigrants from 33 countries—including France and the United States. Numerous foreign companies set up operations, elevating Harbin to the status of a major Chinese metropolis. Following the Russian Civil War in 1918, Harbin became the principal destination for Jewish refugees. The city was subsequently occupied by Japanese forces from 1932 to 1945. The Chinese People's Liberation Army seized control in 1946 and deported the remaining Russians to Siberia. Russia remains among the key commercial partners of the province, and the Russian community today represents the largest foreign population in the city.

Today

Harbin is one of those serene and agreeable major Chinese cities where you can stroll unhurriedly through relatively clean, tree-lined streets. Its former Russian influence lingers in scattered Soviet-era buildings still standing and numerous Orthodox churches. In the Daoliqu district, you can wander along the pedestrian street and soak in the charm of restored old buildings now housing boutiques and restaurants.

You'll also appreciate the cultural blend, from Buddhist temples to a synagogue converted into a Jewish museum showcasing the heritage of this historic community. Harbin truly reveals its charm in winter during the celebrated ice festival. You can also venture down the Yabuli ski slopes or explore the vast Siberian Tiger Reserve.

Climate

Located in northern Chine, Harbin is the country's coldest city. It enjoys a continental climate heavily influenced by Siberian weather, particularly in winter. Summers are mild, with a brief monsoon period in July and August. Average high temperatures peak around 28°C in July. Winters, by contrast, are brutally cold and dry, with average January temperatures around −19.2°C. To fully experience Harbin's charms, we recommend braving the sub-zero temperatures and visiting in winter—the most rewarding season for the region.

Air

Harbin has a modest airport offering domestic flights to and from major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Dalian. A handful of international routes operate to Seoul, Vladivostok in Russia, and Khabarovsk in Siberia.

Train

Harbin boasts a major railway station. The city is a crucial junction served by daily trains to major Chinese cities (Beijing, Dalian, Changchun, and others). Train connections link Chine to Russia, notably the Trans-Siberian route to/from Moscow.

Long-distance Bus

The long-distance bus station is located opposite the railway station. Coaches arrive and depart regularly to/from Qiqihar, Jilin, and Shenyang. There is also an international service connecting Harbin and Vladivostok.

Harbin has a robust bus network connecting you to parks and major attractions. Since 2013, the city has developed metro lines. The five planned lines are expected to be complete by 2020.

What to Do in Harbin?

• Witness the renowned ice festival day and night.
• Visit the sprawling Siberian Tiger Reserve.
• Explore the pedestrian precinct in the Daoliqu district.
• Discover history at the Jewish museum.
• Stroll through Stalin Park.
• Ski the slopes at Yabuli.