Harbin, the capital of China’s northeastern Heilongjiang province, has become a winter hotspot, attracting tourists from across the country and around the world. The city’s Ice and Snow World, renowned for its stunning ice sculptures and vibrant winter festivities, has introduced a new centerpiece that’s taking social media by storm: a massive 500-meter-long ice slide.
The Big Slide has quickly become a must-experience attraction, especially for visitors from southern China, where snow is a rarity. Every day, thousands of tourists brave the cold and patiently wait in line—sometimes for up to six hours—to experience the exhilaration of hurtling down the icy track, reaching the bottom in just under 40 seconds.
“It’s an unforgettable experience,” said Li Wei, a tourist from Guangzhou. “I’ve never seen so much snow and ice in my life. Waiting in line was definitely worth it.”
The Ice and Snow World, spanning over 600,000 square meters, is not just about the slide. The park features intricate ice sculptures, towering ice castles, and a dazzling display of lights that illuminate the frozen creations. This year’s festival has seen a significant increase in international visitors, including a group of tourists from Serbia.
CGTN’s Chen Mengfei joined local media colleagues and the Serbian visitors to experience the slide firsthand. “The excitement was palpable,” she reported. “People from different backgrounds and cultures were brought together by the shared thrill of this unique adventure.”
The surge in popularity of the Ice and Snow World reflects Harbin’s growing reputation as a premier winter destination. The city embraces its cold climate, transforming it into a playground for winter enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
As the festival continues, local businesses are thriving, and the city is basking in its moment of global attention. For those seeking a blend of cultural richness and adrenaline-pumping activities, Harbin’s Ice and Snow World offers an experience like no other.
“It’s not just about the slide,” added Chen. “It’s about the warmth of the people, the beauty of the ice art, and the shared joy of embracing winter in all its glory.”
Reference(s):
Live: Take the big slide in the Ice and Snow World with friends
cgtn.com
