Two iconic winter destinations – China's Harbin and Finland's Rovaniemi – celebrate two decades of sister-city collaboration this year, demonstrating how frosty landscapes can forge warm international ties. Since formalizing their partnership in 2006, these cities have transformed subzero temperatures into opportunities for cultural dialogue and economic growth.
In northeastern China, Harbin's Ice and Snow World continues to push architectural boundaries with crystalline structures carved from Songhua River ice. The festival's 2026 edition features interactive augmented reality installations alongside traditional lantern displays, attracting nearly 3 million visitors annually.
Meanwhile, Rovaniemi leverages its Arctic Circle mystique through sustainable tourism initiatives. The Santa Claus Village now operates entirely on renewable energy, while new glass-roofed cabins allow visitors to view the aurora borealis in climate-controlled comfort.
Cultural exchanges remain central to the partnership, with Harbin hosting Finnish sauna workshops and Rovaniemi showcasing Chinese ice-carving techniques. Joint research projects between the cities' universities focus on cold-climate urban planning and winter sports innovation.
