Harbin, the vibrant capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is experiencing a remarkable surge in winter tourism. As the ice and snow tourism season reaches its peak, the city continues to draw a growing number of visitors thanks to its diverse winter activities, expanding infrastructure, and warm local hospitality.
Last winter, 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 ($17.3 billion), highlighting the city's pivotal role in China's booming ice and snow economy.
This year's demand for winter leisure travel remains robust. According to Chinese travel platform Qunar, Spring Festival hotel bookings have increased by 76 percent compared to last year. The anticipation of the upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games, along with the introduction of new winter-themed travel options, has further enhanced the city's appeal.
New Travel Experiences Drive Demand
To cater to the growing influx of tourists, Harbin has introduced several new winter-themed train routes, improving 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 southern regions. Additionally, the K5197 ice and snow travel photography train features specially designed cabins that provide 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, to China Media Group (CMG).
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Harbin's winter tourism booms with new experiences, upgraded services
cgtn.com
