As the ice and snow tourism season reaches its peak, Harbin, the capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, continues to captivate a growing number of visitors. With its diverse winter activities, expanding infrastructure, and warm local hospitality, the city remains a key destination in China's booming ice and snow economy.
During the previous winter season, Harbin welcomed over 87 million tourists, marking a remarkable 300 percent year-on-year increase, while tourism revenue soared 500 percent to 124.8 billion yuan (approximately $17.3 billion).
This year, the demand for winter leisure travel remains strong. According to Chinese travel platform Qunar, Spring Festival hotel bookings in Harbin are up 76 percent from last year. The upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games and innovative winter-themed travel options have further enhanced the city's appeal.
New Travel Experiences Drive Demand
To meet the growing interest, new winter-themed train routes have been introduced, enhancing accessibility and offering unique experiences. The K974 ice and snow-themed train, launched by China Railway Nanchang Group, now connects Xiamen and Harbin, making winter tourism more convenient for travelers from the south. Another addition, the K5197 ice and snow travel photography train, features specially designed cabins that offer studio photoshoot services—a concept particularly popular among elderly travelers.
\"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, in an interview with China Media Group (CMG).
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Harbin's winter tourism booms with new experiences, upgraded services
cgtn.com
