Now, Explore China’s Frozen Beauty: Heilongjiang Launches Scenic Ice-and-Snow Train Tour

Published on December 29, 2025

The Heilongjiang province in northeastern China has launched a unique ice-and-snow themed tourism loop train, offering travelers a six-day journey through some of the most stunning winter landscapes in the country. Starting from the provincial capital Harbin, the train takes passengers on an immersive tour through the region’s frosty wilderness, showcasing its famed winter scenery, ice sculptures, and snow-covered forests.

The ice-and-snow tourism loop is designed to attract tourists from across China and around the world, particularly those seeking an authentic winter experience. The journey covers several iconic winter destinations in Heilongjiang, a province renowned for its harsh winters and spectacular snow-covered landscapes. With the opening of the train service, visitors can now explore the beauty of Heilongjiang uniquely and comfortably, offering them an unforgettable experience of Chinese winter tourism.

The Six-Day Journey Through Heilongjiang’s Winter Wonderland

The six-day loop train tour in Heilongjiang offers a comprehensive look at the province’s stunning winter landscapes and cultural heritage. The train departs from Harbin, a city famous for its Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, and takes passengers through some of the most picturesque areas of northeastern China.

The train stops at key destinations known for their winter tourism attractions, including the Yabuli Ski Resort, Mudanjiang, and Hegang, where tourists can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and other winter sports. Throughout the journey, passengers are treated to scenic views of the snowy forests, frozen rivers, and snow-capped mountains, all while enjoying the comfort and warmth of the specially designed train cars.

The train itself is equipped with amenities designed to enhance the experience, including panoramic windows, cozy seating, and themed décor that complements the ice-and-snow experience. The interior is adorned with winter-themed decorations, giving passengers a sense of being immersed in a magical, frosty world as they travel through the region.

Harbin: The Gateway to Heilongjiang’s Winter Wonderland

As the starting point for the six-day loop, Harbin plays a key role in the region’s winter tourism. Known as the Ice City, Harbin is famous for its Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, which draws visitors from across the globe. The festival features large-scale ice sculptures, frozen art displays, and illuminated snow sculptures that create a dazzling spectacle in the heart of winter.

Visitors to Harbin can also explore the city’s Russian influences, including the St. Sophia Cathedral and Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie), where they can shop for local crafts, enjoy traditional food, and explore European-style architecture. In addition, Harbin is home to the Harbin Polarland, an aquarium and theme park that offers a fun-filled experience for families with children.

For those on the ice-and-snow themed train, Harbin serves as an ideal starting point for the winter adventure, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy winter activities and explore the city’s unique blend of Chinese and Russian cultures.

Unique Winter Activities Along the Route

The six-day loop train not only offers scenic views but also includes opportunities for tourists to engage in a variety of winter activities. At each stop, tourists can participate in activities such as skiing at Yabuli Ski Resort, one of China’s premier ski destinations, or visit Mudanjiang, where they can experience the thrill of snow rafting and ice skating on frozen lakes.

One of the most popular activities along the route is ice fishing, a traditional winter activity in the region. Passengers can try their hand at catching fish in the frozen rivers and lakes that are abundant in Heilongjiang. These activities not only highlight the province’s unique natural beauty but also allow visitors to experience the rich cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations in northern China.

Additionally, the train offers cultural performances onboard, including traditional music and dance, showcasing the vibrant cultures of the Russian and Chinese populations that have influenced Heilongjiang’s history. These performances give tourists a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage while adding to the immersive winter experience.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tourism

As part of its commitment to sustainable tourism, the ice-and-snow loop train emphasizes eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste and promoting energy efficiency. The train’s green technology minimizes its carbon footprint, and the journey itself is designed to highlight the natural beauty of Heilongjiang while minimizing environmental impact.

The promotion of eco-tourism in Heilongjiang not only helps preserve the province’s unique ecosystems but also encourages responsible travel practices. The region’s commitment to sustainability ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy its natural wonders while supporting local communities through tourism.

Accessibility and Tourism Growth

The loop train offers easy access to some of the most popular winter destinations in Heilongjiang. With regular departures from Harbin, tourists can easily join the tour from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, making it a convenient option for travelers from both within China and abroad.

As Heilongjiang continues to grow as a winter tourism hub, the loop train service is expected to boost local tourism, create new job opportunities, and increase global interest in the region’s natural beauty and winter activities.

Conclusion

The launch of the ice-and-snow themed loop train in Heilongjiang offers a new and exciting way to experience the winter wonderland of northeastern China. With its combination of scenic views, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, the six-day journey provides travelers with a unique opportunity to explore Heilongjiang’s stunning landscapes and rich history. The new tourism initiative is expected to attract visitors from around the world, further establishing Heilongjiang as a premier destination for winter tourism and adventure travel.