Harbin has launched its annual ice harvesting operation along the frozen Songhua River, marking the start of preparations for the 27th Harbin Ice-Snow World scheduled to open this winter. Since December 7, nearly 1,000 workers have been extracting crystal-clear "tofu block" ice at a rate of 10,000 cubic meters daily – enough to fill four Olympic-sized swimming pools every 24 hours.
The operation combines traditional techniques with modern logistics, with workers using specialized saws to cut 1.6-meter-thick ice slabs before transporting them to construction sites. This year's harvest holds particular significance as the city prepares to showcase its winter tourism potential following recent infrastructure upgrades to its river transport network.
Local authorities confirm the ice will form the foundation of massive architectural replicas and interactive installations, continuing Harbin's 60-year tradition of transforming frozen water into artistic marvels. The Ice-Snow World park, expected to cover over 600,000 square meters, will feature climate-controlled exhibition spaces using cutting-edge refrigeration technology.
Economic analysts note the festival's growing importance in Northeast China's winter tourism sector, which attracted over 2 million visitors last season. With new high-speed rail connections to major cities, this year's event is projected to contribute significantly to Heilongjiang Province's cold-weather economy.
