Visit Harbin.
Visit Harbin.
A festive atmosphere on Harbin’s historic cobblestone Zhongyang Street.
In February 2010 I was halfway through my first year living and working in Beijing, China’s gargantuan and often overwhelming capital. After months of hard graft trying to get a new English language school off the ground, I definitely felt in need of a break.
Teaching English in Beijing 2009-2010.
With a week at my disposal for the Chinese New Year holiday, I excitedly began shortlisting destinations for some exploring. But as soon as I glanced over the city of Harbin in Heilongjiang Province, I knew my search was over, I had found the winner.
Visit Harbin.
Perched in China’s often-overlooked icy northeast, Harbin is a fascinating city whose European-flavoured architecture reflects its origins as a Trans-Siberian railway hub. Russian influence still dominates today, from grand townhouses, bookshops, and galleries to stalls selling matryoshka dolls, ushankas, and the onion domes of Saint Sophia Cathedral.
Visit Harbin: Saint Sophia Cathedral.
In truth, it was Harbin’s world-famous Ice and Snow Festival that inspired me to book the trip. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience, I revelled in the dazzling artistry on display—even if it meant braving nighttime temperatures as low as minus 25.
Visit Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival.
Moreover, a visit to Harbin Siberian Tiger Park proved equally memorable, although not always for the right reasons.
Visit Harbin Siberian Tiger Park.
Elsewhere, I visited Heilongjiang Province’s largest Buddhist temple and even crossed paths with one of China’s most charismatic entrepreneurs—just weeks before Anthony Bourdain rolled into town to film with him.
Visit Harbin: at USA Bucks Bar with Mr. Jia Jihai.
For the full story of my adventures in this fascinating Chinese city, why not dive into my articles:
Exploring the Chinese City of Harbin.
&
The Ice Sculptures & Siberian Tigers of Harbin.
