Exploring China: Harbin

Harbin (also spelled Haerbin) is China’s northern-most city. With a metropolitan area that has a population of ten million, it is also one of the country’s biggest. Whether locals are willing to admit it or not, Harbin’s proximity to Russia means there are many subtle elements of Russian culture found here. This town is a relaxed, mostly industrial place, with pleasant central areas. The winters are exceedingly cold, and the reliance on coal for heat leads to stifling pollution during the colder months. The summers are cool and pleasant, however.

Harbin’s Central Avenue is a pedestrian walkway. This street sports an old-time feel and has Russian style cafes, clothing boutiques, and restaurants. This is even an interesting place in winter, when the riverfront is used to give rides via horse drawn sleigh.

Outside town, The Siberian Tiger Preserve is an interesting site. This park houses its tigers in large fenced areas. Land rovers offer cruises through these pens, offering visitors a ride that will bring them face to face with these impressive animals. The park is a working preserve that has the goal of protecting the dwindling population of Siberian Tigers. Many of the animals in the park are being prepared to survive in the wild.

Sun Island Park is a fun place both in summer and winter. There are gardens, forests, and even a museum of science which offer summertime visitors a pleasant afternoon’s activity. In winter, the park is home to the city’s ice festivals. These include sleigh rides, ice and snow sculptures and other festivities.

This is one of the few places in China that has saunas. They are literally everywhere in the city. Some of the nicer ones offer food and massages, as well places to nap.

The Hongbo Shichang is a unique underground shopping center selling everything anyone could ever want (I mean that quite literally).

The further north you get in China, the heavier and heartier the food becomes. This is the case in Harbin, which relies on traditional winter vegetables like potatoes and cabbage to put in stews. Chinese hot pots are popular at many restaurants. Eating a hot pot is a social experience, and venues specializing in these self-cook dishes are generally pretty happening (and loud) places.

Harbin is one of the coldest places in China, but don’t be put off by that fact. There is a lot going on here, both in summer and in winter. Whether it’s the natural beauty of a Siberian Tiger or a night of shopping and socializing, Harbin has what you are looking for.