Located on the southern bank of the Songhua River, approximately 500 km from the Russian border, Harbin is renowned worldwide for its spectacular winter scenery, magnificent ice sculptures, and distinctive blend of Chinese and European cultures.
They call it the "Ice City" (冰城)—a place where sub-zero temperatures (often plunging past -20°C!) are celebrated. Create memories that last a lifetime with a winter getaway packed with wonder, excitement, and discovery for every generation. Whether your family is chasing high-energy outdoor adventures or cozy holiday magic, a visit to Harbin strikes the perfect balance for kids, parents, and grandparents alike.
As the vibrant capital of Heilongjiang Province and the cultural, economic, and political heart of Northeast China, Harbin is a metropolis reborn each winter into a glittering kingdom of ice and snow.
Where East Meets West: Positioned along the majestic Songhua River—just 500 km from the Russian border—Harbin boasts a captivating, historic blend of Chinese traditions and Russian-influenced European architecture.
World-Famous Wonders: Renowned globally for its surreal, glowing ice palaces, massive snow sculptures, and warm, inviting local culture, it offers an enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable multi-generational escape.
Instead of hiding from the cold, Harbin turns sub-zero frost into the world's grandest winter playground. Every year, millions travel here to witness:
Life-Sized Ice Palaces: Entire cathedrals, castles, and pagodas carved purely from Songhua River ice.
A Glowing Wonderland: At dusk, millions of multi-colored LED lights embedded inside the ice turn the city into a surreal neon spectacle.
World-Class Festival Art: Intricate, massive snow sculptures built by international master artists.
Beyond the standard guobaorou and Russian borscht, Harbin offers some truly unusual winter food experiences that are perfect for adventurous travelers.
The Vibe: It’s equal parts frozen fairytale and high-energy festival—a bucket-list destination where extreme cold meets unforgettable warmth.
Date December 2026 to February 2027
Price : From SGD 2600 per person min 4 to go
Upon your arrival in Harbin, you will be greeted and transferred by private vehicle to Yabuli, China's premier alpine resort destination, located approximately 200 kilometres southeast of the city. The scenic drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through snow-covered forests and the picturesque countryside of Heilongjiang Province.
Nestled within the majestic Zhangguangcai Mountain Range, Yabuli is home to China's largest and most prestigious ski resort, having hosted numerous national and international winter sporting events, including competitions for the Asian Winter Games. Renowned for its excellent snow conditions, expansive ski slopes, and breathtaking alpine scenery, Yabuli has become one of Asia's most sought-after winter destinations.
Beyond skiing, Yabuli offers a wealth of unforgettable winter experiences. Meet the Ewenki, one of China's smallest ethnic minority groups, whose centuries-old traditions revolve around their treasured reindeer. Visitors have the rare opportunity to interact with these gentle animals while learning about the Ewenki people's unique nomadic culture and Arctic way of life.
Hotel: Avaunce International Hotel
After breakfast, begin your day at Yabuli Ski Resort, China's largest and most prestigious alpine ski destination, nestled within the scenic Zhangguangcai Mountain Range. Renowned for its excellent powder snow, world-class facilities, and breathtaking winter landscapes, Yabuli has hosted numerous international winter sporting events, including the Asian Winter Games.
Take a scenic cable car to the mountaintop, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of snow-covered forests and rolling mountain peaks. Whether you're a seasoned skier or trying the sport for the first time, Yabuli offers slopes for every skill level, with professional instructors available to help beginners gain confidence on the snow.
For those who prefer sightseeing, board the Sanguokui Mountain sightseeing cable car and admire the spectacular winter scenery from above before descending on the world's longest alpine slide, an exhilarating ride through the snowy mountains.
If skiing isn't your style, there are plenty of exciting winter activities to enjoy, including snow tubing, snowmobiling, and ice slides, making Yabuli a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
Return to your hotel in the evening after an unforgettable day immersed in Northeast China's winter wonder.
Hotel: Avaunce International Hotel
Note: Ski equipment rental, ski clothing, instructor fees, and optional winter activities (such as snowmobiling, snow tubing, and other snow experiences) are not included in the tour package. These activities can be booked and paid for directly at Yabuli Ski Resort based on your preferences and availability.
After breakfast, depart Yabuli and enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour private transfer to Xuexiang (China Snow Town). It is one of China's most enchanting winter destinations. Nestled within the Shuangfeng Forest Farm, Xuexiang is renowned for its thick, powdery snow that blankets traditional wooden cottages, creating a magical fairytale landscape.
Upon arrival, stroll through the charming village, where rustic Northeastern homes are topped with fluffy snow resembling giant marshmallows. Along the streets, browse local stalls offering authentic winter delicacies such as frozen pears, frozen persimmons, sticky bean buns, and candied hawthorn, all beloved specialties of Northeast China.
As evening falls, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with the Reindeer Float Parade, where beautifully illuminated floats and decorated carriages parade through the snow-covered village, bringing the winter wonderland to life.
Continue the celebration with a lively Yangko Folk Dance Performance, a traditional Northeastern Chinese dance featuring colourful costumes, rhythmic music, and energetic performances that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.
End the day by gathering around a traditional bonfire party, where locals and visitors come together to sing, dance, and celebrate beneath the sparkling winter sky. It's a heartwarming experience and the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit of Snow Town before returning to your hotel for the night.
Hotel: Xuexiang Mountain Talk Resort Hotel
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the enchanting Snow Town (Xuexiang) before returning to Harbin.
Take a relaxing stroll along the famous Snow Charm Avenue, the heart of the village, where traditional wooden cottages are blanketed in thick layers of snow, creating a picture-perfect winter landscape. Browse charming souvenir shops, cosy cafés, and local snack stalls while soaking in the magical atmosphere of this fairytale village.
For a truly authentic Northeastern winter experience, hop aboard a traditional horse-drawn sled and glide through the pristine snow-covered countryside. As the rhythmic sound of the horse's hooves echoes through the peaceful landscape, you'll experience the nostalgic charm of rural Northeast China while creating unforgettable memories surrounded by breathtaking winter scenery.
Afterwards, bid farewell to Snow Town and board your private vehicle for a comfortable journey back to Harbin.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
You may choose to explore the city's vibrant streets, sample authentic Dongbei cuisine, or simply relax for the evening.
Hotel: Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel Harbin International Convention & Exhibition Center
After breakfast, visit Sun Island Scenic Area, home to the internationally acclaimed Harbin International Snow Sculpture Art Expo. Admire spectacular giant snow sculptures crafted by talented artists from around the world, showcasing remarkable creativity and craftsmanship in a breathtaking winter setting.
Continue to the iconic Saint Sophia Cathedral, Harbin's most recognisable landmark. Built in 1907, this magnificent Byzantine-style Russian Orthodox church stands as a symbol of the city's rich Russian heritage and architectural charm.
As evening falls, step into the magical Harbin Ice & Snow World, the highlight of any winter visit to Harbin. Marvel at the dazzling display of illuminated ice castles, towering sculptures, intricate bridges, and fantasy-themed structures carved entirely from crystal-clear ice harvested from the frozen Songhua River.
Enjoy free time to explore the park at your own pace and experience its exciting attractions, including the Snowflake Ferris Wheel, the world-famous giant ice slide, thrilling snow tubing, and ice go-karting, all set against a spectacular backdrop of colourful lights and frozen artistry.
Return to your hotel after an unforgettable day discovering the very best of Harbin's legendary winter attractions.
Hotel: Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel Harbin International Convention & Exhibition Center
Note: If you would like your guide to accompany you inside Harbin Ice & Snow World, please inform your travel consultant in advance. An additional entrance fee for the guide will apply.
After breakfast, set out for the picturesque Harbin Volga Manor (伏尔加庄园), a charming Russian-themed cultural estate that beautifully honors Harbin’s unique historical ties to Russia.
Nestled along winding riverbanks amidst serene snow-dusted forests and frozen lakes, this expansive estate offers a peaceful, fairytale contrast to the city center:
Russian Architecture: Admire over 30 meticulously reconstructed classical Russian structures, complete with vibrant onion-domed churches and ornate wooden estates.
A Journey Through History: Visit faithful replicas of lost landmarks, including the iconic St. Nicholas Church and Pavlov Castle.
Cultural Immersion: Wander through snow-covered trails, explore art exhibits, or take in traditional Russian music and dance performances inside the warmth of the estate's grand halls.
Continue your exploration of Volga Manor's cultural treasures:
St. Nicholas Cathedral: Step inside this architectural masterpiece to admire sacred relics, detailed religious icons, and grand church bells brought directly from Moscow. Surrounded by snow-covered pines and frozen rivers, it offers a tranquil, fairytale glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Harbin.
Pushkin Salon: Discover the enduring literary legacy of Russia's famous poet Alexander Pushkin, and learn how Russian arts shaped Harbin’s unique identity.
Families will especially enjoy the Three Bears Park, an interactive attraction inspired by a 400-year-old Russian countryside farm.
Explore a traditional wooden courtyard complete with a windmill, water well, and rustic cottages while taking part in hands-on cultural activities such as painting Matryoshka (Russian nesting) dolls, brewing traditional Russian kvass, and baking freshly made Russian bread.
Return to central Harbin for a leisurely walk along Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie), the city's historic pedestrian heart. Framed by beautifully preserved Baroque and Renaissance-style architecture, this lively boulevard is packed with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and street vendors serving iconic local treats.
Enjoy a unique tasting experience that showcases two of Harbin's finest local ingredients: small-garden corn from the black soil of Northeast China and premium linden honey from Harbin.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Chinese Eastern Railway Glass Skywalk, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Songhua River and Harbin's impressive skyline from a thrilling glass platform suspended above the historic railway bridge—an ideal spot for capturing memorable photographs.
Your private transfer whisks you back into the glowing heart of downtown Harbin. Step into the welcoming warmth of the lobby and unwind from an enchanting day of discovery.
Take time to relax in comfort, reflect on the day’s rich history and picturesque winter scenery, and recharge for tomorrow's adventures in the Ice City.
Hotel: Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel Harbin International Convention & Exhibition Center
After breakfast, enjoy some free time at leisure before your scheduled departure. Depending on your flight time, you may take a final stroll around the hotel vicinity or simply relax before your journey home.
At the designated time, your private driver will transfer you comfortably to Harbin Taiping International Airport for your onward flight.
As you depart the frosted landscapes of Harbin, take with you the rich tapestry of stories, thrilling snowbound moments, and serene winter magic carved into this storied region.
We wish you an effortless and comfortable journey onward, and look forward to welcoming you back when curiosity calls again.
