Harbin's Ice and Snow World, the world's largest ice-and-snow theme park, continues to captivate visitors in its 2026 season after opening on December 17, 2025. Located in the capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, this frozen wonderland features record-breaking attractions including a 400-meter super ice slide and a snowflake-shaped Ferris wheel illuminated by energy-efficient LED systems.
Cultural Marvel Meets Economic Engine
While the park's ice sculptures depicting Chinese mythological figures and modern architectural wonders attract photography enthusiasts, its economic impact resonates across Asia. Hotel occupancy rates in Harbin remain above 90% this winter, with regional airlines adding 35% more flights to accommodate international tourists from Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Southeast Asia.
Innovation in Subzero Temperatures
Engineers used advanced 3D ice-printing technology to create this year's centerpiece: a full-scale replica of Beijing's Temple of Heaven that withstands temperatures down to -35°C. Nightly multimedia shows combine augmented reality with traditional ice lantern displays, creating what Singaporean visitor Rajesh Kumar described as "a bridge between ancient winter traditions and tomorrow's technologies."
With the park operating through February 2026, tourism officials project over 2 million visitors will contribute to what analysts call "the white economy" – winter tourism driving growth in China's northeastern provinces.
