Harbin
Harbin is known as the “Eastern Moscow” and “Little Paris of the East.” It has a long history and is the birthplace of the Jin and Qing dynasties and the Bohai Kingdom.
Walking along Zhongyang Street, you’ll feel like you’re in Europe. This is where Harbin’s history and cultures blend. Eating a Ma Dieli ice lolly while walking along Zhongyang Street is a unique experience. St. Sophia Cathedral is Harbin’s iconic building. It’s also a historical site.
In winter, Harbin is covered in ice and snow. The Ice and Snow World and the Snow Town will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. You’ll see amazing ice lanterns and snow sculptures.
After the Ice and Snow World, eat some delicious food to replenish your energy. Try Harbin red sausage and Northeast Chinese cuisine. In summer, try Harbin Beer.
There are also unique cultural events like winter swimming, Yangge dance, and ice weddings. If you have the chance, you should experience them. You will be touched by the enthusiasm of the locals.
ZHONG YANG STREET
Central Street is a famous shopping street in Harbin, known as the “Paris of the East” and the “Moscow of the East.” The buildings on both sides of the street have unique styles, blending various European architectural styles like Baroque and Rococo. It’s one of Harbin’s iconic architectural clusters. Of course, Central Street is a great place to taste the delicious food of Northeast China, and it’s also a must-visit spot to experience Harbin’s history and culture.
Saint Sophia Cathedral
St. Sophia Cathedral is located near Central Street in Harbin. It is a historic Byzantine-style building that was originally constructed in 1907 as a wooden church. Later, in 1923, it was rebuilt into a brick and wood structure as an Eastern Orthodox church.
Yabuli Ski Resort
Harbin Ice and Snow World
Harbin cuisine
I must tell you: Harbin’s cuisine will absolutely blow your mind! This city perfectly blends Chinese and Russian cultures, creating a unique food paradise. Imagine warming yourself on a cold winter’s day with a steaming hot Harbin red sausage – its crispy exterior and juicy interior perfectly showcase the magical fusion of German sausage-making techniques with Chinese seasonings.
Speaking of bread, Harbin’s Da Lie Ba (Russian-style round bread) is unforgettable – this Russian-inspired bread fills the air with its rich wheat aroma. Pair it with a bowl of Lao Dao Wai’s sauerkraut pork noodle soup, and you’re in for a heavenly treat! Don’t miss Modern Ice Lolly (Madie’r Binggun), a brand dating back to 1906, offering smooth, delicate texture that brings refreshing relief on hot summer days.
And oh, let me tell you about the dish that haunts my dreams – Guo Bao Rou! Golden crispy batter encasing tender slices of pork, dipped in a unique sweet and sour sauce – this local adaptation of sweet and sour pork will absolutely make your taste buds dance!
