Harbin, the 'Ice City' of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, has once again captivated global audiences with the opening of its world-renowned ice and snow theme park on December 17. The park, now in its 2025 season, features over a thousand meticulously crafted sculptures, including towering castles, mythical creatures, and intricate cultural motifs illuminated by vibrant LED lights.
This year's installations emphasize eco-friendly practices, with organizers using energy-efficient cooling systems and recycled ice materials. A spokesperson for the park highlighted its role in boosting winter tourism, noting a 15% increase in early bookings compared to 2024, driven by travelers from Southeast Asia and Europe.
For business professionals, the event signals growing opportunities in China's winter tourism sector, with local authorities announcing partnerships to develop year-round cultural and recreational infrastructure. Meanwhile, academics have praised the park as a case study in blending tradition with sustainable innovation.
The attraction holds special significance for Asian diaspora communities, featuring sculptures inspired by folklore from China, Japan, and South Korea. Visitors can explore the park until late February 2026, with nightly light shows synchronized to traditional and modern music.
