Harbin is the capital of Heilongjiang, China’s northernmost province. Famously known as the Ice City (temperatures can plunge to as low as -38 degrees Celsius during frosty winters), its rustic and grand Russian-inspired architecture starkly juxtaposes with modern and newly-built high-rise apartments. Despite my incessant complaints about how I was potentially at risk of frostbite there, allow me to show you three top sight-seeing destinations in this magical city!
#1: Harbin Ice and Snow World
This festival is a must-see for both tourists and locals alike, for this theme park looks even more elaborate and dream-like than the movie set of Frozen. With every fanciful sculpture made out of man-carved ice and illuminated with bright colours, one cannot help but be lulled into a dream-like trance. What’s more, there are ice slides for the young (and those not feeling cold yet) to play. However, consider yourself warned: the extremely low temperature will cause your smartphone device to switch off involuntarily! Also, keep an eye out for your personal belongings as well; yours truly had to tearfully part with her phone here…
#2: Harbin Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie)
This main pedestrian thoroughfare is the shopping haven of Harbin and I really must add, it gives Singapore’s legendary Orchard Road a run for its money. With fairy lights twinkling from bald cypress trees and mini ice statues nestled in every nook and cranny of this street, one could almost forget to pay attention to well-known brands nestled in the street such as Nike and
Zara. Of course, do not expect jaw-dropping discounts; this is, after all, a tourist hotspot!
#3: Saint Sophia Cathedral
Saint Sophia Cathedral is a former Russian Orthodox church located in central Harbin, not far away from its Central Street. Constructed in 1907,
it was renovated as a museum for the preservation and appreciation of Harbin’s rich culture. Souvenirs are also sold inside the Cathedral for those who wish to bring a piece of Harbin back home. One can also watch in awe as flocks of doves take to the sky against the backdrop of the majestic cathedral.
If you ever find yourself sweating under the hot sun in Singapore and wondering why you have to put up with it, know that a getaway trip to a realm of Russian-like manors and snow-filled fun via a 7-hour flight awaits!
