Every year, in northeast China’s Heilongjiang province, the city of Harbin hosts the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, features massive ice and snow sculptures. At night, the sculptures are colorfully illuminated and visitors can climb and play on some of the structures. The festival officially opened on January 5 this year, and will ran through until the 5 February. The winter festival draws several million tourists each year, from China and from abroad. All brave -10 degrees celsius or more freezing temperatures to enjoy the atmosphere and fun.
The best pictures from the festival
Tickets for the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival and the Ice and Snow World in 2015 are sold according to two time periods: a.m. and p.m. Afternoon tickets seem better value for money (if staying over 6 hours), but few stay for the full nine hours in the cold. Children under 1.2 meters go free.
Morning Tickets (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Adults: 150 yuan (25 USD)
- Children (above 1.2 meters accompanied by an adult): 120 yuan (20 USD)
Afternoon and Evening Tickets (12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
- Adults: 300 yuan (49 USD)
- Children (above 1.2 meters accompanied an adult): 160 yuan (26 USD)
Harbin and the ice festival, definitely offer the opportunity for a winter break with a difference.
