CHINA ADVENTURE CLUB JOURNEYS
Winter in the North: Harbin Ice Lanterns and Hiking
Explore China Adventure Club journeysJourney at a glance
- Day 1 Arrive in Harbin
- Day 2 Harbin
- Day 3 Harbin - Snow Valley
- Day 4 Snow Valley - Snow Town
- Day 5 Snow Town to Harbin
- Day 6 Depart Harbin
Nestled in China’s chilliest, most northeastern province of Heilongjiang, Harbin, the provincial capital, is a multicultural hub, boasting a unique confluence of Chinese and Eastern European cultures.
About this Journey
When wandering past the emerald domes of the Church of St. Sophia and along Harbin’s main thoroughfare, one would be forgiven for thinking they’ve been miraculously transported to the streets of Saint Petersburg. When it was founded in 1898, Harbin’s population primarily consisted of Russian and Jewish immigrants. Although the European citizenry diminished through the years, the remnants of the city’s international past live on in its architecture and folklore.
Tour Highlights
- Getting lost among the gargantuan snow sculptures at the International Snow Sculpture Art Expo
- Wandering the historic and multicultural streets of Harbin while admiring some elaborate architecture
- Hiking from the tranquil Snow Valley to the postcard-perfect Snow Town
YOUR JOURNEY
Route Map
Select a route section to explore the map. Tap a stop for its location or use the directions link for the next leg. Flights, trains, cruises and hiking arrangements follow your itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Harbin
Step off the plane in Harbin and meet your local guide in the airport arrivals hall. They’ll be waiting to welcome you and will have your driver on standby, ready to whisk you off to your hotel for check in. • Explore the winter wonderland at Ice and Snow World. Don’t forget to don your warmest clothes!
Day 2 Harbin
Wander past the remnants of Harbin’s Russian heritage as you walk along Lao Daowai. The historic district’s timeworn Baroque buildings (with nods to Chinese design) will leave you feeling like you’re in Europe instead of China. • Try out curling under the instruction of a professional coach. • Marvel at the frozen masterpieces inside the International Snow Sculpture Art Expo.
Day 3 Harbin - Snow Valley
Hop on a 5-hour ride to Snow Valley. • We will stay at a local guesthouse, where we can enjoy some typical Dongbei (Northeast) atmosphere, and a simple dinner.
Day 4 Snow Valley - Snow Town
With your local guide, go on a hike from Snow Valley to the Snow Town for about 4 to 6 hours (subject to weather).
Day 5 Snow Town to Harbin
Ride from Snow Town back to Harbin, which takes around 6 hours. • If time permits, stroll along Central Street of Harbin through Harbin’s historic quarter with multicultural influences. • If time permits, visit the Church of St. Sophia and peruse the collection of images and artifacts depicting the lives of foreigners in old Harbin, including its vivacious Russian and Jewish communities.
Day 6 Depart Harbin
Your local guide will escort you to the airport and help you check in for your flight home.
Hotel
Photos
Shangri-La Songbei, Harbin 5 Stars Located on the banks of the Songhua River (the source of the ice for the Ice and Snow Festival), Shangri-La Songbei, Harbin is your elegant retreat in the heart of the vibrant city.
Photos
Photos Church of St. Sophia in Harbin Harbin Ice Festival Magnificent Yabuli is the first, largest and among the best ski resort in China The world's largest snow sculpture, 'Romantic feelings at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival by Emma Gawen Sunset at the Harbin Ice Festival
Details
What’s Included
- Services of an English-speaking local English-speaking guide
- Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
- All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
- Private chauffeur service to and from airport at start and end of your trip
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flights, domestic trains, plus relevant taxes
- Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
- Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
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