All-Inclusive Harbin City History and Local Culture Private Day Tour

Harbin , China

All-Inclusive Harbin City History and Local Culture Private Day Tour

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About this experience

Harbin, originally a Manchu word meaning a place for drying fishing nets grew from a small rural settlement on Songhua River back to become one of the largest cities in Northeast China. In 1897, after Chinese eastern railway was build and the October Revolution of 1917 succeeded, many Russians and Europeans move to Harbin and built houses, schools, and shops in Harbin so, at that time, Harbin became an international city. Harbin local culture is fundamentally Han culture, combined with Manchu and Russian cultures. This combination of cultural influences impacted local architectural style, food, musics, and customs. On this tour, you will immerse yourself in historical and cultural Harbin to discover the city through the eyes of locals.

Available options

Harbin highlights tour

Include lunch and coffee<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Local guide

Lunch and coffee

Private tour

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Attractions entrance fee

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

St. Sophia Church was built in Daolin District of Harbin City for Russian solders to help them cope with homesick; therefore, it has authentic Russian architectural style. Today, this place is also a business center. Later, you will have local specialty cuisine for lunch. After lunch, continue to the street that has a history of hundreds of years called Central Street,

Stop 2

also known as Zhongyangdajie, which is is a witness of the development of Harbin. In addition, you will see many different European style architectures left buy European migrants.

Next, you will visit Flood Control Monument Plaza and Songhua River bank. Songhua River is one of the longest river in China. In summer, you could take a boat side to enjoy the scenery of the river, and in winter, you could walk on the frozen river. After visiting Songhua River, take a coffee break to freshen up before your guide and driver transfer you back to your Harbin hotel.

visit outside architecture

old shopping center

visit Harbin railway station

What's not included

Optional activities

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

RU KO CMN JA EN FR ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Please wear comfortable walking shoes

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

About Harbin

Harbin is renowned for its annual International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the world's largest ice festival. The city is a unique blend of Chinese and Russian influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural heritage. Harbin's cold winters and warm summers create a distinct seasonal experience for visitors.

Top Attractions

Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival

The world's largest ice and snow festival, featuring stunning ice sculptures, snow slides, and ice lanterns. The festival transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland.

Cultural/Entertainment 1-3 days Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees

Saint Sophia Cathedral

A stunning example of Russian architecture in Harbin, this cathedral was built in 1907 and now serves as a museum.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours ¥30

Sun Island

A scenic park on the Songhua River, famous for its sunrises and ice sculptures during the festival. The park features walking trails, ski slopes, and a ski resort.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees

Zhaolin Park

A large park on the banks of the Songhua River, known for its ice and snow sculptures during the festival. The park also features a ski resort and walking trails.

Nature/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to enter, but some attractions may charge fees

Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie)

A historic street featuring a mix of Russian and Chinese architecture, shops, and restaurants. The street is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dongbei Dumplings (Harbin-style)

Large, thick-skinned dumplings filled with pork, cabbage, and spices. They are typically served with a vinegar and chili oil dipping sauce.

Dinner Contains pork and gluten

Borscht

A Russian beet soup made with beef, cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Pelmeni

Russian dumplings filled with minced meat (usually pork or beef) and served with sour cream or butter.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Hot Pot

A popular Chinese dish featuring a communal pot of simmering broth in which ingredients like meat, vegetables, and noodles are cooked. Harbin-style hot pot often includes a spicy broth and a variety of local ingredients.

Dinner Vegetarian and meat options available

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Sledding Snowmobiling Hiking Shopping Dining Spas

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Winter)

This is the best time to visit for the Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and winter activities. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, snow slides, and ice lanterns.

-20°C to -5°C -4°F to 23°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese
Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Harbin is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Harbin Taiping International Airport • 35 km from city center

By train

Harbin Railway Station, Harbin West Railway Station

By bus

Harbin Long-Distance Bus Station, Harbin West Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Daoli District Nangang District Songbei District

Day trips

Yabuli Ski Resort

110 km from Harbin • Full day

A popular ski resort featuring a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort is also home to a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Wuchang God of Wealth Temple

30 km from Harbin • Half day

A historic temple dedicated to the God of Wealth, featuring a variety of religious artifacts and architectural features. The temple is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, particularly during the Lunar New Year.

Mudanjiang

150 km from Harbin • Full day

A city known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions, including the Mudanjiang National Forest Park and the Mudanjiang Museum. The city is also home to a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Festivals

Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival • Late December to late February Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival • Late December to late February Harbin Summer Music Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit during the winter months to experience the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, the world's largest ice and snow festival
Try local specialties like Harbin-style dumplings, borscht, and pelmeni, which reflect the city's unique blend of Chinese and Russian influences
Explore the city's historic Russian and European architecture, including the Saint Sophia Cathedral and the Central Street
Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Yabuli Ski Resort, Wuchang God of Wealth Temple, or Mudanjiang National Forest Park
Use public transport or walk to explore the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be limited