Harbin, the charming capital of Heilongjiang Province in northern China, is an ideal destination for a family vacation, especially during the winter season. This 3-day itinerary takes you and your children on a whirlwind tour of Harbin’s must-see attractions, including historical landmarks, beautiful parks, and magical ice festivals. From the magnificent Saint Sophia Cathedral to the dazzling ice sculptures at Ice and Snow World, and fun-filled activities at local theme parks, this itinerary ensures a memorable experience for the whole family, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Harbin’s unique blend of Russian-inspired architecture, lively streets, and delicious cuisine.
Day 1: Saint Sophia Cathedral – Central Street – Zhaolin Park
Upon arrival at Harbin Railway Station, head towards Saint Sophia Cathedral, which is just a short bus ride away or a pleasant walk from the station. This stunning Russian Orthodox church, built in 1907, stands as one of the city’s iconic landmarks. After visiting the cathedral, stroll along Central Street (Zhongyang Street), which is the longest pedestrian street in Asia. Lined with European-style buildings, this bustling street offers a wide range of shopping options and local snacks. It’s a perfect spot to relax, let the kids enjoy some treats, and explore the area. Heading north along the street, you will reach Zhaolin Park, a popular location for locals to admire the beautiful ice lanterns during winter. Spend some time marveling at the colorful ice sculptures that light up the park, creating a magical winter atmosphere.
Dining: Central Street offers a wide selection of dining options, from traditional northeastern Chinese cuisine to Russian-inspired dishes. Don’t miss the famous Ma Dier ice cream, a local treat, or try the large variety of snacks such as grilled sausages. There’s something for everyone, so pick what suits your family’s taste.
Accommodation: Central Street is the heart of Harbin, and you’ll find a wide range of hotels and accommodations. For a more historic experience, consider staying at the century-old Ma Dier Hotel. Choose an option that best suits your preferences and budget.
Day 2: Songhua River – Sun Island Scenic Area – Harbin Polarland & Oceanarium – Harbin Ice and Snow World
On the second day, take the Songhua River cable car to Sun Island, a serene location known for its snow sculptures during the winter months. In the morning, enjoy the snow sculptures, visit Squirrel Island, and explore the Russian-style town on the island. In the afternoon, head to the Polarland, located at the entrance to Sun Island. Here, your children will be thrilled to watch an exciting beluga whale performance, which is a must-see for families visiting Harbin.
As evening falls, head to Harbin’s Ice and Snow World, one of the largest and most stunning ice and snow festivals in the world. The night scene at Ice and Snow World is breathtaking, with thousands of ice sculptures and lights illuminating the snowy landscape in a dazzling display.
Dining: While there is a KFC on Sun Island, other dining options are limited. You can have a quick meal at the Beer Square on the island or venture outside to find more restaurants. For dinner, enjoy a quick meal at one of the nearby fast-food outlets around Ice and Snow World. For those with more specific dietary preferences, you can cross the Songhua River to Daowai District, where a variety of restaurants await you.
Accommodation: After visiting Ice and Snow World, head back to the other side of the Songhua River, where numerous hotels and guesthouses are available for your stay.
Day 3: Harbin Cultural Park – Harbin Amusement Park – Central Street
On the third day, start by taking a bus or taxi to Harbin Cultural Park, home to a large outdoor amusement park. This is the largest open-air amusement park in northeastern China, featuring a Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a great activity for families, especially with kids who enjoy theme park attractions. After exploring the amusement park, head back to Central Street by bus or taxi to revisit any shops or restaurants you may have missed on Day 1. This is a great time to pick up some Harbin specialties, such as Russian-inspired goods, souvenirs, and local treats, to take home.
Dining: Near the amusement park, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering simple meals. Alternatively, you can return to the vibrant Central Street for more diverse dining options, making it easy to find something for everyone in the family.
