Harbin, the vibrant capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is turning into a winter paradise! With the ice and snow tourism season in full swing, the city is welcoming more visitors than ever before.
Last winter, Harbin saw over 87 million tourists, marking a staggering 300% year-on-year increase. This boom catapulted tourism revenue by 500% to an impressive 124.8 billion yuan ($17.3 billion).
And the excitement doesn't stop there! This year, the demand for winter leisure travel remains sky-high. According to Chinese travel platform Qunar, Spring Festival hotel bookings have jumped by 76% compared to last year. The anticipation for the upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games and the introduction of new winter-themed travel options are adding even more sparkle to the city's appeal.
❄️ New Travel Experiences Drive Demand
To cater to the growing number of winter enthusiasts, Harbin has rolled out exciting new winter-themed train routes. The K974 ice and snow-themed train, launched by China Railway Nanchang Group, now connects Xiamen and Harbin, making it easier for travelers from the south to explore the icy delights of Harbin.
Another highlight is the K5197 ice and snow travel photography train, which features specially designed cabins offering studio photoshoot services. This unique concept has been a hit, especially among elderly travelers looking to capture beautiful winter memories. 🌨️📸
Jin Yue, a 72-year-old traveler from Liaoning Province, shared her excitement: \"I am 72 years old this year. I came here to experience this tourist train and the travel photography service, and it has been a wonderful surprise.\"
With its expanding infrastructure, diverse winter activities, and warm local hospitality, Harbin is solidifying its status as a top destination in China's booming ice and snow economy. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a photography enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy the serene winter landscapes, Harbin has something magical to offer!
Reference(s):
Harbin's winter tourism booms with new experiences, upgraded services
cgtn.com
