Ice Festival of Harbin Tour: Sculptures, Snow and Serenity ( 7 Days Tour)

Beijing – Tour of Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, Hutong and Courtyard Tour

Indulge in some heart-warming food at breakfast before slipping into your winter attire and heading out into the elements for a fascinating day of touring. Stroll the momentous Tiananmen Square, where frost-covered Chinese flags ripple in the wind and the area’s possession of substantial political history consumes you. In 1949, communist revolutionary Mao Zadong announced the beginning of the People’s Republic of China on these very grounds. But before, and since that year, significant moments that have shaped the country’s dynamics were to play out here. Learn about these bygone times in the Chinese National Museum and Great Hall of People, while an ever-present portrait of Chairman Mao overlooks the square and hundreds of soldiers line the perimeter, dusting their uniforms of falling snow.

Head to the enchanting Forbidden City – sitting opposite the square. This truly stunning imperial palace dates back to the Ming Dynasty era and spans an astounding 74 hectares. Within that area are 980 captivating buildings encompassing almost 9,000 magically decorated rooms, enclosed by a towering wall and 52-meter-wide moat. You will witness snow delightfully paint the palace and its stunning surroundings a picturesque shade of winter white – adding to the already fascinating beauty this area possesses. The name ‘Forbidden City’ lends itself to the notion that only emperors and those whom they gave permission could enter the gates of the palace.

Next, explore the incredible Beijing Hutongs (old alleyways) – where you will get a fascinating insight into the city’s traditional way of life. Walk amid a range of narrow, wide, short and long lanes with uneven cobbled pathways and leaning tiled roofs into open courtyards surrounded by buildings. Small shops and restaurants sporadically appear as you weave your way around the mazy walkways; witness the older generation laughing and joking among one another while playing Mahjong; engage with the friendly residents as they offer you astonishing insight into their lives. You can even partake in traditional dumpling making, calligraphy and Chinese paper cutting classes amid your unique surroundings.

That evening enjoy one of Beijing’s most renowned dishes as you are treated to a Peking Duck dinner at an esteemed local restaurant.

What’s Included: breakfast, tour, dinner, accommodation

Beijing to Harbin – Tour of Harbin City Centre: Central Street, St Sophia Cathedral and Square, Tour of Jile Temple

Fill your belly at breakfast before leaving one beautiful city for another and heading to the winter surroundings of Harbin. Arrive at your five-star hotel and drop those bags off before beginning a day of exploring the city center’s delights.

Begin in the quaint Central Street: a former hub for residents from countries all over the world, it boasts a variety of stunning age-old European architecture. Cobblestone walkways are decorated in snow while a predominant Russian theme fills its shops, restaurants and bars. Indulge in Russian, French, British and German-made goods including traditional dolls, perfumes, wools, medicines and much more. Dating back to 1898, this area is a corridor of architectural magic and is a must-visit attraction of Harbin.

As early evening approaches, make your way to the unforgettably wondrous St. Sophia Cathedral and city square. This stunning Russian-style construction displays magical snow-drizzled domes and spires with enchanting Roman features. Night falls and upward lights create a magical bronze glow across the architectural masterpiece – forming a spectacular scene against the coats of winter white. Harbin’s open city square encircles the cathedral, and on its perimeter lay a range of beautiful backlit buildings.

Next, head to the Jile Temple, otherwise known as the Temple of Bliss. Consisting of 10 different structures, including halls, towers and cells, it is the largest Buddhist complex in Heilongjiang Province. Its focal point is a glorious seven-story pagoda standing over 30 meters tall, decorated with detailed Buddhist pictures. You will witness stunning colored brickwork and golden Buddha statues amid the winter’s white delights as you walk among peaceful courtyards where burning incense gently set sail strings of smoke into the air. Admire the wonderfully traditional stone and bronze architecture both in and outside of the halls.

Later that evening enjoy another customary local taste of cuisine as you tickle your taste buds with a delicious Dongbei Hotpot dinner.

What’s Included: breakfast, tour, dinner, accommodation

Harbin – Tour of Stalin Park and Dragon Tower, Ice Lantern Festival Show in Zhaolin Park

This morning make your way to another park situated amid the Songhua River: Stalin Park. This beautiful area is another winter haven; its focal point is the Flood Control Monument - commemorating the residents of Harbin whom miraculously controlled a colossal flood of the city back in 1957. The statue is of traditional European-style design, and looks glorious amid its floral surroundings. But it’s during the winter months, when the lake is thickly glazed with ice, that the park comes to life. Winter sports and games take place: skilled skaters jump and twist their way around, stunning Husky dogs run freely and tow sleds in their wintery wake, all while local musicians treat you to some delightful tunes.

Experience extraordinary views over the city this afternoon as you head to the peak of the Dragon Tower.  Aside from its practical significance as a key TV pylon of Heilongjiang Province, it is the tallest steel tower in Asia and possesses structural beauty. A thick base smoothly narrows to a circular viewing platform, before its slim peak that sits high in the sky. You’ll enjoy the wondrous winter views of the city’s architecture and natural splendor from the observation deck – a fitting way to spend some of your final hours of the trip.

Your stomach will be longing for some food, so head back to the hotel for a bite to eat before spending the night in spectacular fashion as you enjoy the unforgettable Ice Lantern Show at Zhaolin Park.

The serene snow-topped peaks of Huageo Mountain and Meigui Mountain beautifully peer over the park as you admire colorful lights bringing to life snow and ice sculptures that replicate famous buildings, ancient legends, and famed icons. You’ll gaze in wonder at these works of art, which depict detail and size that defies logic.

Shades of red, green, blue, purple and pink reflect all around, igniting a sense of serenity and cultural insight – leaving there no better place to conclude your stay in Harbin.

What’s Included: breakfast, tour, dinner, accommodation