Harbin Ice Festival Express

Huang ying, welcome to China and the start of your holiday! Upon your arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in.

The day is yours to explore Beijing, the captivating capital of China, renowned for its blend of history, contemporary skyscrapers, and iconic cultural sites such as the Great Wall of China.

Today, prepare for an exciting journey to the iconic Great Wall of China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Wall stands as an enduring symbol of Chinese civilization and ingenuity. Initially constructed for defensive purposes, it snakes an impressive 6,700 kilometers across diverse terrains and towering mountains.

We'll be visiting the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall, known as the "Yellow Flower Great Wall." Its name originates from the vibrant yellow wildflowers that bloom along the wall during specific seasons. What sets Huanghuacheng apart is that a portion of the wall is partially submerged underwater. We'll embark on a scenic hike along the wall, offering breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of the structure's historical significance.

This evening will be spent at your own leisure. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll transfer to the airport for our flight to Harbin. Known as the "Ice City," Harbin is famous for its stunning ice and snow sculptures, particularly showcased during the annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival—the highlight of your visit!

Upon arrival in Harbin, we'll head to the hotel, where you can settle in and relax amidst the city's unique blend of Russian and Chinese architecture. Later in the evening, we'll head to a local restaurant for dinner. One of the highlights on the menu is "Fried Pork in Scoop" (Guo Bao Rou), a beloved dish from northeastern Chinese cuisine. This dish features thinly sliced pork coated in a crispy batter and served with a delightful sweet and sour sauce. Enjoy this delicious introduction to Harbin's local tastes, as we kick off our journey in this vibrant city. (B/D)

We begin the last day of the year at the bustling Hongzhuan Local Market, celebrated for its diverse offerings and tasty local flavours.

Next, we venture to Sun Island Park for the China Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. While the official opening is on January 5th, the festival welcomes visitors from mid-December, offering a perfect opportunity to witness sculptors putting final touches on their masterpieces.

After breaking for lunch, our journey continues to the enchanting Harbin Snow and Ice World. Imagine gliding down a massive ice luge resembling the Great Wall of China or ascending a replica of the Emperor's Summer Palace in Beijing, complete with towers, a guardhouse, and a moat with a seven-arched bridge. Here, you can even sail on Empress Dowager Cixi's ice marble boat. The creations at Snow and Ice World defy imagination, enchanting, inspiring, and sometimes wonderfully bizarre—what surprises await this year are anyone's guess!

Dinner awaits at a local restaurant with a specialty dish, "Northeastern Braised Chicken in Iron Pan," known for its hearty flavours. We'll end the day at our hotel bar, ringing in the New Year with festive lights and local 'Maitai firewater.' It's a perfect way to welcome the coming year in Harbin's enchanting atmosphere! (B/D)

Happy New Year! Today, we begin with a visit to the Chinese Eastern Railway Bridge, a historic landmark that has defined Harbin's identity for a century. We'll then explore Stalin Park, a serene riverside park stretching 1,750 meters. Our tour also includes an exterior visit to the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Sophia, originally built in 1907 once the largest Orthodox church in the Far East.

A highlight of our day awaits at Zhaolin Park, the birthplace of the enchanting Ice Lanterns and host to the renowned Ice Lantern Art Fair. Here, we'll marvel at spectacular ice sculptures illuminated by traditional Chinese lanterns and neon lights. Since its first Ice Lantern party in 1963, the park has set seven Guinness World Records for its impressive creations.

Afterwards, we'll leisurely stroll along Central Street, celebrated for its historic charm and elegant architecture. At the Modern Hotel, a landmark dating back to the 1910s and often likened to the Palace of Versailles, we'll indulge in ice popsicles. Lunch will be at your leisure, followed by a drive through East and West Dazhi Street to admire old churches, such as the Eastern Orthodox church and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

After returning to the hotel, enjoy the afternoon with a late check-out until 6:00 PM. Dinner will be at your leisure in downtown Harbin.

Later, we'll transfer to the train station for our overnight journey back to Beijing. (B)

After arriving in Beijing by overnight train, you'll be transferred to our tour start hotel where your tour comes to an end. Please ensure your flight departs from Beijing after 2 PM to accommodate any potential delays. Post-tour accommodation and a departure transfer to the airport (at an additional cost) can be arranged if you require.