What to Do in Harbin 2025: Top Activities & Attractions

Compared to Singapore, Harbin feels quieter but full of surprises, especially with its Russian-style architecture and ice sculptures. For Singaporeans, Harbin is great for food-hunting, exploring markets, and enjoying winter activities. Shopping here is fun and affordable, whether it’s souvenirs, winter clothes, or local snacks. With so much to see and do, let’s dive into what to do in Harbin and discover the best spots for sightseeing, food, and unique experiences.

1. Explore the Magical Harbin Ice & Snow World

Walking into Harbin Ice & Snow World felt like stepping into a winter fairy tale. Huge ice castles and colorful lights lit up the night. The air was very cold, but fresh. I smelled roasted chestnuts from small stalls nearby. Sliding down ice slides and walking through ice tunnels was exciting.

📖 What makes it special?

Harbin Ice & Snow World is one of the biggest ice festivals in the world. The ice art is very detailed and colorful. It is a unique experience in Harbin and a must-try for winter visitors.

📍 How to get there?

From the city centre, a taxi will take about 20 minutes. You can also take a bus that runs directly to the site during the festival season.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Good for kids and first-time visitors. Ice slides are fun for everyone.

💡 Pro tips

• Visit at night for the full effect of the colorful lights.
• Wear several layers and waterproof boots to stay warm and dry.
• Bring a small backpack for snacks, water, and spare gloves.

2. Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral

When I first saw Saint Sophia Cathedral, I was amazed by its giant green dome and Russian-style architecture. Walking inside, the wooden floors creaked softly under my feet. The light through the stained-glass windows made the space feel warm. Standing in the middle, I felt calm and inspired.

📖 What makes it special?

Saint Sophia Cathedral is a symbol of Harbin’s Russian influence. Its architecture is unique in China, and inside it now serves as a museum showcasing the city’s history.

📍 How to get there?

The nearest metro station is Central Street Station, about a 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Or you can take a taxi directly there.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Suitable for kids, elderly visitors, and anyone interested in history or architecture.

💡 Pro tips

• Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Pair the visit with a walk along Central Street nearby for food and shopping.

3. Try Ice Fishing

Stepping onto the frozen Songhua River was exciting and a little chilly. Sitting on a small stool with my fishing line in the hole, I felt peaceful and focused. Every time I felt a tug, my heart jumped with excitement. It was a quiet, calm activity, but also full of small surprises each time a fish bit.

📖 What makes it special?

Ice fishing on the Songhua River is a traditional winter activity in Harbin. It’s a unique way to experience local culture and enjoy the snowy outdoors. 

📍 How to get there?

Take a taxi or bus to the riverside near Harbin Flood Control Monument. 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Good for kids, elderly, and beginners. Just make sure everyone dresses warmly.

💡 Pro tips

• Bring extra warm layers and a thermos with hot drinks.
• Try small snacks sold by riverside stalls—they’re local treats.

4. Capture the Snow with a Night Photography Tour

Walking through Harbin at night felt magical. I joined a snow night photography tour where we could do portrait sessions. Posing in the glowing scenery felt like being in a fairy tale. It was fun, creative, and a little glamorous all at once.

📖 What makes it special?

This tour is unique because it combines sightseeing, photography, and costume fun. You can do professional photoshoots in winter outfits or themed costumes like princess dresses.

📍 How to get there?

Most tours start at Saint Sophia Cathedral or Central Street. Book your session online in advance to secure your outfit and photographer.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Kids and adults can enjoy posing in costumes, though very young children might need extra supervision.

💡 Pro tips

• Wear thermal layers under costumes to stay warm.
• Bring extra gloves and hand warmers for comfort during the shoot.

5. Stroll Through Zhaolin Park Ice Lantern Festival

Visiting Zhaolin Park at night felt like stepping into a glowing wonderland. Colorful ice lanterns lit up the paths, casting warm reflections on the snow. Walking slowly between lantern displays, I felt peaceful and amazed at the delicate details carved into the ice.

📖 What makes it special?

The festival is a winter tradition in Harbin and a perfect mix of art, culture, and fun. It’s smaller and more relaxed than Ice & Snow World but just as magical.

📍 How to get there?

Take a taxi or bus to Zhaolin Park.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Great for kids, elderly, and first-time visitors. The paths are easy to walk, and the festival is safe and welcoming.

💡 Pro tips

• Visit after sunset for the full effect of the lights.
• Wear extra layers and comfortable boots—paths can be icy.

6. Discover Harbin Beer Museum

Visiting Harbin Beer Museum was both fun and interesting. Walking through the museum, I saw old brewing equipment, vintage bottles, and posters showing the history of Harbin beer. I even got to taste some fresh beer at the tasting area.

📖 What makes it special?

The museum is unique because it combines culture, history, and tasting experiences. Harbin is famous for its beer, and this museum shows how it became one of the oldest and most popular brands in China.

📍 How to get there?

Take bus 333 or bus 338/343.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes. Kids and elderly can enjoy the history displays, but tasting is only for adults.

💡 Pro tips

• Try the tasting session to enjoy fresh Harbin beer.
• Take photos of the old brewing equipment for a vintage vibe.

7. Wander Around Sun Island Scenic Area

When I visited Sun Island in summer, it felt like stepping into a calm, green world away from the busy city. I took a slow walk along the flower paths and even hopped on a small boat — the view was beautiful with blue skies and wide open water. It was peaceful and relaxing.

📖 What makes it special?

Sun Island Scenic Area is one of the best things to do in Harbin year-round. In summer, it’s full of flowers and outdoor fun; in winter, it turns into a snowy wonderland. It’s also where the famous Snow Sculpture Art Expo is held.

📍 How to get there?

Take a taxi from the city centre, which will take about 20–30 minutes. Or you can take Bus 29 or Bus 88 directly to the entrance.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes, very! There’s plenty of space for kids to run around, and the scenery is relaxing for older visitors too.

💡 Pro tips

• Bring some snacks and water; it’s a large park.
• Rent a bike or electric buggy if you want to explore easily.

8. Warm Up with Dongbei Hotpot

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I could smell the rich aroma of broth and fresh meat. The heat from the pot warmed my face while snow fell outside — it felt so cosy. I dropped in slices of beef, mushrooms, tofu, and Harbin cabbage, and watched them bubble away. It’s simple, hearty, and truly comforting — a real taste of Dongbei warmth.

📖 What makes it special?

Trying Dongbei hotpot is one of the best food experiences in Harbin. Unlike Sichuan hotpot, the flavour here is more savoury than spicy, focusing on fresh ingredients and rich broth.

📍 How to get there?

You can find good Dongbei hotpot restaurants across central Harbin, especially near Zhongyang Street and the Harbin Railway Station area.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes! Dongbei hotpot is perfect for families or groups of friends — everyone cooks together and shares the fun.

💡 Pro tips

• Try adding Harbin sausage or frozen tofu — local favourites!
• Ask for extra garlic and sesame in your dipping sauce.

9. Explore the Harbin Traditional Food Market

Walking through the Harbin Traditional Food Market was one of my favourite things to do in the city. The air was filled with the smell of grilled meat, freshly baked bread, and roasted sunflower seeds. I loved watching locals shop for fresh vegetables and handmade noodles — it felt so real and full of life. It’s the best place to see the heart of Harbin’s food culture.

📖 What makes it special?

The market is a hidden gem among the best activities in Harbin. It’s where locals go daily, not tourists, so you get an authentic taste of life here. The variety is amazing.

📍 How to get there?

Take Line 1 to Harbin Railway Station, then a short taxi or bus ride.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes! It’s fun for families — kids will enjoy tasting snacks and seeing colourful displays of food and spices.

💡 Pro tips

• Go early in the morning to see the busiest local scene.
• Try the smoked red sausage and baked sweet bread, both Harbin classics.

10. Hit the Slopes at Yabuli Ski Resort

Putting on my ski gear, I felt both nervous and excited — the first slide down was thrilling! The mountain views were stunning, covered in pure white snow that stretched endlessly. After skiing, I warmed up with a cup of hot chocolate at the lodge while watching the sunset paint the snow pink and gold.

📖 What makes it special?

Yabuli is the biggest and most famous ski resort in China — a must-try experience in Harbin for winter lovers. It offers slopes for all levels, from beginners to experts, plus options for snowboarding and sledding.

📍 How to get there?

Take a high-speed train from Harbin to Yabuli South Station (about 1.5 hours). From there, a short taxi ride brings you straight to the resort. 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?

Yes, the resort has beginner slopes and ski schools for kids. Families can also enjoy snow tubing and hot spring hotels nearby.

💡 Pro tips

• Go between December and February for the best snow.
• Bring gloves, goggles, and warm layers — it can drop below –20°C.

Why Harbin Should Be Your Next Travel Stop

Looking back, what makes Harbin truly special is its mix of icy wonder and warm, welcoming vibes. Those giant ice sculptures and European-style streets stay with you long after you leave. The food, the local markets, and little surprises around every corner make every visit feel alive and unique. 

If you’re planning a trip, now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing travel promotions for Harbin right now. Trust me, once you experience it, you’ll already be thinking about your next visit!