Harbin Kicks Off Winter Tourism with Ice Harvest Festival: A Journey into China’s Icy Landscape, Featuring Sun Island, Snow Sculptures, and Ancient Traditions

Published on December 12, 2025

Harbin, often referred to as China’s ice capital, is a city where winter comes alive with a blend of ancient traditions and modern celebrations. The Harbin Ice Harvest Festival, held annually on the frozen Songhua River, kicked off the 2025-2026 winter tourist season in a grand display of culture, history, and artistic creation. This traditional festival, which takes place in one of the world’s coldest and snowiest regions, draws thousands of tourists from around the globe, eager to experience the magic of China’s winter wonderland.

The opening ceremony of the 6th Harbin Ice Harvest Festival showcased a fascinating mix of ancient customs and contemporary ice artistry. Performers in traditional ice-harvester costumes took to the frozen river to perform the “ice harvesting dance,” a ritual that has been part of the local heritage for centuries. This momentous occasion is not just about harvesting ice but also a symbolic act of blessing for the upcoming winter. The festival continues to honor the region’s rich history, while also giving it a modern twist with artistic installations and winter sports events.

Celebrating Tradition and Art in the Ice-Covered Landscape of Harbin

Harbin is more than just a city of snow and ice; it is a place where centuries-old traditions intersect with cutting-edge winter tourism. The festival’s central event, the ice harvest, sees local residents, including the esteemed Ice Elder, perform a ceremonial dance to usher in the first ice of the season. This ceremonial moment is marked by the blessing of good fortune, with a red silk ribbon symbolizing prosperity for the year ahead. The harvested ice blocks are then used to create the spectacular ice sculptures displayed at the Harbin Ice and Snow World and various winter parks.

The Harbin Ice and Snow World is one of the most famous attractions in the region, showcasing gigantic ice sculptures and snow creations. These installations are not only feats of artistic skill but also testament to the region’s ability to transform natural elements into magnificent works of art. The most notable sculptures include a towering six-metre-high ice stupa, a lollipop-shaped ice sculpture, and unique snow statues resembling ice cream, pear, and a giant snowman. These installations make perfect backdrops for photographs, offering a magical atmosphere for tourists.

Apart from the visual spectacle, the festival also features a gastronomic fair where visitors can sample local delicacies and snacks. A cultural heritage exhibition is also an integral part of the festivities, offering a deeper understanding of Harbin’s intangible cultural heritage. As visitors stroll through the festival grounds, they are transported back in time to witness the ancient practices that have been a part of the city’s winter celebrations for generations.

What to Expect at the Harbin Ice Harvest Festival

The festival doesn’t just attract tourists for its visual appeal, but also for its unique blend of cultural activities and winter sports. In addition to the ice harvesting ceremony, there are snow exhibitions on Sun Island (Taiyangdao), a national park famous for its snowy landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy a thrilling snow marathon, ice races on dragon boats, and many other winter sports events.

Travel tips for visitors to the Harbin Ice Harvest Festival:

1. Dress warmly: Temperatures can plummet during the winter months, so be sure to bring insulated clothing and accessories.
2. Plan ahead: The festival draws large crowds, so booking accommodations early is crucial. Many hotels in Harbin offer special winter packages.
3. Explore beyond the festival: Don’t miss other winter attractions in the area, such as the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and Sun Island Park.
4. Capture the memories: The festival’s snow sculptures and winter landscapes make for unforgettable photos.

Why Harbin’s Ice Harvest Festival is a Must-See Event for Tourists

For those seeking to experience the beauty of China’s winter tourism scene, Harbin offers a unique opportunity to dive into the traditional culture of the region while enjoying modern tourism experiences. The Ice Harvest Festival is not just a celebration of winter but a way to preserve ancient customs that have shaped the region’s identity. The artistic displays and winter sports events add an exciting modern twist to the historic traditions, creating a festival that draws both international visitors and local families alike.

Harbin remains one of the most popular winter tourist destinations in China, and the Ice Harvest Festival marks the official start of the winter tourism season in this frosty city. With its majestic snow sculptures, traditional ceremonies, and variety of winter sports, Harbin offers a truly magical winter experience that’s unlike any other destination in the world. For tourists looking to immerse themselves in the winter spirit, Harbin is the place to be.

A Glimpse of the Future: Harbin’s Winter Tourism Boom

The Harbin Ice Harvest Festival is just the beginning of a full season of winter tourism in the city. With ongoing snow festivals and winter sports events scheduled throughout the season, Harbin continues to attract tourists seeking a unique experience of China’s icy landscapes. As tourism to Harbin grows, the city is positioning itself as the winter capital of the world, offering everything from ice sculpture exhibitions to snow sports that appeal to adventure enthusiasts and families alike.

For visitors eager to witness the best of Harbin during the winter season, the Ice Harvest Festival is an event that should not be missed. It combines culture, art, and tradition with the thrill of winter sports, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers.