Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang Province in northeast China, is experiencing a significant surge in winter tourism. Known for its stunning ice and snow landscapes, the city continues to attract a growing number of visitors each season.
Last winter, Harbin welcomed over 87 million tourists, marking a 300 percent year-on-year increase. Tourism revenue soared by 500 percent to reach 124.8 billion yuan ($17.3 billion), highlighting the region's booming ice and snow economy.
This year, the 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 surrounding the upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games, coupled with the introduction of new winter-themed travel options, has further enhanced the city's appeal.
New Travel Experiences Drive Demand
To accommodate the rising number 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 winter tourism more convenient for travelers from southern regions. Additionally, the K5197 ice and snow travel photography train features specially designed cabins that offer studio photoshoot services, a concept that has become 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,\" shared Jin Yue, a traveler from Liaoning Province, in an interview with China Media Group (CMG).
Reference(s):
Harbin's winter tourism booms with new experiences, upgraded services
cgtn.com
