As the winter season unfolds, Harbin, the capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is experiencing a significant surge in tourism. Renowned for its ice and snow festivals, the city continues to captivate visitors with diverse winter activities, enhanced infrastructure, and warm local hospitality.
During the previous winter season, Harbin welcomed over 87 million tourists, marking an impressive 300 percent year-on-year increase. Tourism revenue soared by 500 percent, reaching 124.8 billion yuan (approximately $17.3 billion). This remarkable growth underscores Harbin's pivotal role in China's flourishing ice and snow economy.
Innovative Winter Experiences Drive Visitor Growth
The strong demand for winter leisure travel persists this year, with Spring Festival hotel bookings up 76 percent from last year, according to Chinese travel platform Qunar. The upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games and an array of new winter-themed travel options have further amplified the city's appeal.
To accommodate the growing influx of tourists, Harbin has introduced new winter-themed train routes that enhance accessibility and offer unique experiences. The K974 ice and snow-themed train, launched by China Railway Nanchang Group, now connects Xiamen and Harbin, making it more convenient for travelers from the south to explore the northern winter wonderland.
Another innovative addition is the K5197 ice and snow travel photography train. This special service features cabins designed as photo studios, providing passengers—particularly elderly travelers—with the opportunity to capture memorable moments during their journey.
\"I am 72 years old this year. I came here to experience this tourist train and the travel photography service, and it has been a wonderful surprise,\" said Jin Yue, a traveler from Liaoning Province.
The combination of upgraded services and novel experiences not only enriches the travel offerings but also strengthens Harbin's position as a premier winter destination. As the city continues to innovate and expand its tourism infrastructure, it remains a shining example of how embracing cultural and economic development can attract global visitors.
Reference(s):
Harbin's winter tourism booms with new experiences, upgraded services
cgtn.com
