Harbin

Harbin, China

Songhua River slithers its way through the capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang province. Harbin is imbued with unmistakable western influences, and a walk through the European architecture, most of which is still standing today, is a trip down the memory lane.

Speaking of the northernmost provincial capital of the country, most are likely to shudder and balk at its winter's freezing cold. Winter is the city's longest season and the most charming one. When Harbin is gripped by ice, it becomes a glittering spectacle. Despite a possible frostbite, snow fiends flock to the wintry wonderland for its snowy splendor and frozen beauty.

Getting around

• Songhua River

  One of the seven largest rivers in China links two districts of the city and is spanned by a railway bridge built in 1901. Attractions line its banks, including Guxiang Park and Flood Control Monument Square.

• Laodaowai

  Here, in this"baroque China"neighborhood, typical Chinese gardens lie hidden in century-old homes with European exterior. A number of traditional commercial streets under the government protection offer Harbin's traditional snacks which are petering out.

• Sun Island

  Swan Lake and Sun Waterfall are some of the appealing attractions on the island on the northern bank of Songhua River. In summer, it is a beautiful retreat of choice for those looking for a respite from the soupy months; in winter, it comes into its own when blanketed by glistening white snow.

• Central Street

  Along its length is mostly architecture of European style. This century-old cobbled pedestrian street is a microcosm of western-influenced Harbin.

• Ice Lantern Festival

  The fun highlight takes place from January 5 to the end of February every year in the 6.5-hectare Zhaolin Park. It was started in 1963 and is now the world's oldest and largest outdoor showcase of artistic ice lanterns. Marvel at large chunks of ice carved and chiseled into different shapes which will turn into constellations of luminescent blue, pink, green and yellow at night.

  
  
  
• Foods

  Besides the eating establishments with typical northeast China menus, Russian and western restaurants lead visitors to the most surprising treats like Roulian Hongchang (European-style smoked pork sausages) and Qiulin Damianbao (a gigantic circular bread with a crispy crust).