8-Day China Winter Tour: Harbin, Snow Town & Mt. Changbai (Dec-Feb Only)

• Overnight: Harbin, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

Welcome to Harbin, China’s legendary “Ice City” and a place where winter truly comes to life. Few destinations capture the magic of snow and ice quite like this northern gem. From glittering ice lanterns and breathtaking snow sculptures to exhilarating ski slopes and frozen river skating, Harbin turns the cold season into pure celebration.

Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel in the city center. Take the evening to rest or wander the charming streets lit with festive lights — your Harbin winter adventure has just begun.

• Overnight: Harbin, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

After breakfast at your hotel, set out to explore Harbin, a city often called the “Eastern Paris” or “Moscow of the East.” With your local guide, uncover the fascinating blend of European architecture and northern Chinese culture that gives Harbin its unique soul.

St. Sophia Cathedral Square – Begin your day at the iconic green-domed St. Sophia Cathedral, the largest Eastern Orthodox church in the Far East. Its classic Byzantine architecture and onion-shaped dome create one of Harbin’s most recognizable skylines — a striking reminder of the city’s Russian influence.

Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) – Stroll along Harbin’s most famous boulevard, a century-old pedestrian street lined with ornate European façades, cafés, and shops. Known as the “First Street of Asia,” it feels like walking through an open-air museum of architectural art.

Flood Control Monument – Visit this historic riverside landmark built in 1958 to commemorate Harbin’s triumph over the devastating 1957 floods. The Roman-style columns and water-level markers make it both a symbol of resilience and a popular photo spot along the Songhua River.

Harbin Ice and Snow World – As night falls, experience the magic that makes Harbin world-famous. Wander through a glowing kingdom of ice castles, sculptures, and slides, all illuminated by colorful lights. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and admire the glittering night view of the Songhua River before returning to your hotel.

Festival Update: The 2026 Harbin Ice & Snow Festival is expected to open around Christmas 2025 and run through mid-February 2026. As one of the world’s most popular winter events, entry is time-limited and ticket availability is limited. We highly recommend booking early to secure your spot before tickets sell out during the peak season.

• Overnight: Snow Town, standard hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

Yabuli Ski Resort – After breakfast, drive about 3 hours to Yabuli Ski Resort, China’s premier destination for snow sports and alpine scenery, offering the perfect start to your winter adventure.

Snow Tubing Adventure – Start your day with pure fun as you glide down snowy slopes on inflatable tubes, known locally as “snow UFOs.” It’s thrilling, safe, and full of laughter — the perfect warm-up for the day ahead.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride – Take a traditional northeastern-style horse sled, an old-fashioned mode of transport once common in the region. As you ride through the snow, listen to folk songs and experience the charm of northern frontier culture, including reenactments of local legends and rustic traditions.

Yabuli–Snow Town Mountain Road – This scenic mountain route connects Yabuli and China Snow Town, offering some of the most beautiful winter landscapes in Northeast China. With snow-covered forests and winding roads, it feels like driving through a fairytale.

Warm Reminder: Mobile signal may be limited along this scenic mountain route, so it’s a good idea to let family or friends know before you set off. Enjoy the peaceful digital break surrounded by nature’s winter beauty.

High-Mountain Rime (Frosted Trees) – Along the route, you may encounter the stunning rime phenomenon, when mist freezes on trees to create sparkling crystal branches — a breathtaking natural wonder sometimes called the “Eastern Alps.” Don’t miss the chance to capture this rare sight on camera!

Note: The formation of rime depends on just the right mix of cold air and moisture, so it’s a special sight that not everyone gets to see — consider it a lucky bonus if nature gifts you this magical moment!

Snowmobile Adventure to Datudingzi Mountain – Hop on a snowmobile and climb to the highest peak in Heilongjiang, known as “Dragon River’s First Mountain.” Speed through the forest and take in panoramic views of frost-covered trees and snowfields — a thrilling experience that combines nature and adrenaline.

China Snow Town (Xuexiang) – Arrive at the famous China Snow Town, formerly Shuangfeng Forest Farm, located at over 1,000 meters above sea level. Known for its deep, sticky snow and storybook winter scenery, the area receives snow for more than seven months a year — making it the snowiest place in China.

Dream Home Park (Menghuan Jiayuan) – As night falls, explore this magical snow village illuminated by warm lights. Enjoy a traditional farmhouse dinner, then stroll along Xueyun Street and the Snow Village Boardwalk, where cozy wooden houses and glowing snow piles create a fairytale atmosphere.

Evening Folk Performances in Snow Town – In the evening, enjoy a taste of authentic northeastern culture with local folk entertainment organized by the Snow Town Forestry Bureau. Depending on the schedule and weather, you may experience one of the following:

• Er Ren Zhuan – A lively and humorous folk performance loved across Northeast China, known for its singing, dancing, and witty banter.
• Northeast Yangko Dance – Join in or simply enjoy the bright costumes and joyful rhythms as locals dance along Xueyun Street, adding color and warmth to the snowy night.
• Bonfire Party – If conditions allow, gather around an outdoor bonfire to celebrate winter with music, laughter, and dancing under the stars.

Note: These evening activities are organized by the Snow Town Forestry Bureau and may vary depending on the local schedule or weather conditions. Programs may be adjusted or replaced as needed — thank you for your understanding, and enjoy whichever unique cultural experience awaits you!

Northeastern-style Heated Brick bed (Kang) – End your day with a cozy night on a traditional heated brick bed, a uniquely warm and authentic way to relax after your snowy adventures.

• Overnight: Mudanjiang, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

After breakfast at your local guesthouse, take a leisurely stroll along Xueyun Street, the most iconic lane in China Snow Town. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and admire the unique “snow curtains” hanging from rooftops — thick drapes of snow that reach down to the ground, forming the signature winter look of this fairytale village.

Northeast Morning Market – Experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional northeastern market as locals bundle up in fur coats to sell their goods. Browse colorful stalls filled with regional winter treats such as sticky rice dumplings, sugar candies, frozen persimmons, and other frosted fruits. Chat with friendly vendors, buy your kids a candied hawthorn stick (Tanghulu), or simply enjoy the heartwarming spirit of a true Northeast-style winter morning.

Bangchui Mountain Wooden Boardwalk – Walk along the 3.2-kilometer scenic trail, passing pavilions like Bangchui Pavilion and General Pavilion before reaching the Panoramic Viewing Platform at the summit. From here, capture a breathtaking view of the snow-covered cottages, red lanterns, curling chimney smoke, and hanging corn and chilies — a perfect setting for winter photography.

High-Mountain Rime (Frosted Trees) – If the weather is right, you may witness the enchanting rime — frost crystals glistening on tree branches like silver lace. This rare natural wonder depends on the perfect mix of cold air and moisture.

Snowfield Off-Road Adventure & Wildlife Viewing – Hop on a snow off-road vehicle for an exciting ride through the alpine terrain. These powerful vehicles are built for snowy and icy conditions, giving you both thrill and safety. Along the way, you might spot northeastern mountain wildlife such as deer, roe, or wild boars — a truly immersive Arctic-style experience!

Polar Forest Trek & Snow Dragon Ride – Continue your adventure by trekking through pristine forests and open snowfields, surrounded by breathtaking winter scenery. For extra excitement, try the Snow Dragon, a thrilling ride where a chain of snow tubes slides down the slope together — pure fun and laughter for all ages!

• Overnight: Yanji, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

After breakfast, travel east toward Tumen, known as China’s Eastern Gateway and one of the country’s most fascinating border cities. Located along the Tumen River, it faces Namyang County in North Korea across the water. The Tumen Border Port, China’s second land crossing with North Korea, sits just about 200 meters from the national boundary marker, offering a rare glimpse of life across the border.

Nanhu Winter Fishing Site – On the way, we will pass by this site, where you can witness or learn about the traditional ice fishing culture of northern ethnic minorities. This centuries-old practice — cutting through the frozen lake to catch fish in subzero temperatures — is a proud legacy of the region’s Manchu and Jurchen ancestors. The fish from Jingpo Lake, raised in icy waters, are known for their firm texture and delicate flavor — once considered a royal delicacy in ancient China.

Tumen Bridge & Border Viewpoint – Walk up the Tumen Bridge for a sweeping view across the river into North Korea. From here, you can observe local life on both sides of the border. You might see residents working or even elderly locals dancing gracefully by the riverside — a peaceful glimpse into this culturally rich frontier region.

Korean Folk Culture Village (Yanji’s “Little Korea”) – Visit the Korean Folk Culture Village in Yanji to experience the vibrant traditions of China’s Korean ethnic community. Explore displays of traditional clothing, food, music, and folk homes, or try on authentic Korean costumes for memorable photos (optional experience; additional cost applies).

Yanbian University & Instagram Wall – Visit Yanbian University, famous not only for its strong academic atmosphere but also for its eye-catching neon signage wall that has become a local social media hotspot. The mix of Chinese and Korean-language signs creates a colorful, modern vibe. Grab a coffee labeled “Yanji” from a trendy café and snap a few photos in front of this unique cultural landmark — a perfect way to end your day in Yanji, the heart of China’s Korean region.

• Overnight: Erdao Town, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

Mt. Changbai National Park – After breakfast, travel to Erdao Town, the gateway to Changbai Mountain, one of China’s Top Ten Famous Mountains. From the transfer center, take the shuttle bus to enter the scenic area, enjoying beautiful views of the primeval forest and elegant birch groves along the way.

Heaven Lake (Tianchi) – Ride the mountain shuttle up to an elevation of around 2,700 meters to reach the breathtaking Heaven Lake, China’s largest volcanic crater lake. Formed by ancient eruptions, this pristine alpine lake shimmers in shades of deep blue, encircled by jagged peaks and shifting clouds — a truly majestic natural wonder and the crown jewel of Changbai Mountain.

Changbai Waterfall – Watch as the waters of Heaven Lake cascade through a natural gap between towering peaks, plunging 68 meters down a rocky cliff to form the most famous waterfall in Northeast China. The powerful flow and mist create a dramatic, ever-changing spectacle against the volcanic landscape.

Julong Hot Springs – Just below the waterfall lies the vibrant Julong Hot Springs, where steaming vents and colorful mineral terraces spread across the mountainside. Stroll along the wooden boardwalks to take in the geothermal wonder, and if you like, try a freshly boiled spring egg — a simple local treat cooked in natural thermal water.

High-Altitude Outdoor Hot Spring – After descending the mountain, settle into your hotel and soak in a natural open-air hot spring. Surrounded by snow-draped peaks and crisp mountain air, you’ll experience the soothing harmony of fire and ice — the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

• Overnight: Jilin, 4-Diamond hotel with daily buffet breakfast.

After breakfast, begin your journey toward Jilin City, with several unforgettable winter experiences along the way.

Wusong River Drift (Magic Winter Rafting) – Start your morning with an exciting hot-spring-fed river drift in the quiet village of Hongfengtun, home to the legendary “Northeast Magic Realm.” Glide along the crystal-clear Naitou River, surrounded by mist and frost-covered trees. As you float through the silent snow forest, listen to the soothing rhythm of flowing water — a surreal, dreamlike experience unique to this region.

Snow Edelweiss Reindeer Park – Step into a fairy-tale world where twenty gentle reindeer roam through the snowy forest. Inspired by the theme “When the forest is deep, you’ll see deer; when love is deep, you’ll see you,” this heartwarming park offers hands-on experiences like feeding reindeer with moss, snow tubing, and more — perfect for photos and family fun in a winter wonderland.

Changbai Mountain Ice Fishing Experience – Head into a secluded forest lake to try your hand at ice fishing, an iconic northern winter tradition. Equipped with gear and guided by local experts, learn how to safely drill into the ice and fish beneath the frozen surface. Enjoy the thrill of sitting inside a heated starry tent, waiting for a bite, and savoring the joy of reeling in your catch — an authentic taste of life in China’s winter frontier.

After the day’s adventures, continue to Jilin City and check into your hotel for a relaxing evening.

• Breakfast at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive about 1.5 hours to Wusong Island, one of the best places in China to witness the magical rime frost phenomenon.

Wusong Island – Known as the “Kingdom of Rime,” this small island on the Songhua River is embraced by warm water and cold air, creating the perfect conditions for spectacular frost formations. In winter, mist rises from the river and coats every branch and twig with glittering white crystals — a breathtaking sight that makes the landscape look like a dream. Locals say, “Watch the fog at night, the frost in the morning, and the falling flowers at noon,” describing the enchanting cycle of rime forming, sparkling, and melting away.

Departure – After enjoying the serene beauty of Wusong Island, bid farewell to the snowy landscapes of Northeast China. With warm memories of frozen lakes, glittering forests, and cozy hot springs, you’ll be transferred to the station or airport for your journey home, marking the end of your unforgettable Heilongjiang, Harbin, and Jilin winter adventure.