Harbin, the northeastern Chinese city famed for its winter wonders, has been formally recognized by UN Tourism for its leadership in ice-snow tourism development. The announcement, made on December 16, 2025, highlights Harbin’s transformation into a global winter destination, attracting both domestic and international travelers with its iconic Ice and Snow World festival and innovative seasonal programming.
This year, Harbin has launched over 100 themed winter events, ranging from ice sculpture competitions to cultural performances, to bolster its cold-weather economy. The initiatives align with broader efforts to position the city as a year-round tourism hub while capitalizing on its unique geographical advantages. Analysts note that the recognition underscores China’s growing influence in niche tourism markets, particularly as Asian destinations adapt to shifting climate-related travel trends.
With visitor numbers projected to rise by 20% this season compared to 2024, local authorities are expanding infrastructure and sustainability measures to accommodate growth. The development also signals opportunities for cross-regional collaboration in winter sports and eco-tourism across Northeast Asia.
