Ultimate Adventures Around Harbin: Journey Through an Ice and Snow Wonderland

Starting from Harbin and venturing into the vast northeastern region of China, you’ll discover a world even more breathtaking than the city itself. This classic “Ice and Snow Route” connects world-class ski resorts, fairy-tale snow villages, volcanic lakes, and magical rime landscapes.

Ice and Snow Wonders & Fairy-Tale Villages

This region's attractions are relatively concentrated and form the core area for experiencing the most spectacular winter scenery.

1. China Snow Town (Shuangfeng Forest Farm) | 中国雪乡（双峰林场）

Address: Shuangfeng Forest Farm, Dahailin Forestry Bureau, Hailin City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province | 地址： 黑龙江省牡丹江市海林市大海林林业局双峰林场
Introduction:
This is not an ordinary village—it is a real-life winter fairy-tale world. Due to its unique snowfall, thick “snow mushrooms” and snow cornices up to one meter form on the rooftops. At night, red lanterns illuminate the pure white snow, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. It is a paradise for photographers.

2. Ice and Snow Gallery | 冰雪画廊

Address: On the road between Snow Town and Yabuli, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province | 地址： 黑龙江省牡丹江市海林市，位于雪乡至亚布力的公路上
Introduction:
This is not a man-made attraction, but a breathtaking natural landscape corridor. As you travel through it, you will see tree branches on both sides covered in glittering rime frost, forming an endless ink-wash painting of pure white beauty. It is a must-see visual highlight on the journey between Yabuli and Snow Town.

3. Datudingzi Mountain | 大秃顶子山

Address: Near Snow Town, Hailin City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province | 地址： 黑龙江省牡丹江市海林市，紧邻雪乡
Introduction:
This is the highest peak in Heilongjiang Province. You can ride specialized snowmobiles to the summit and overlook vast stretches of snowy forests and rolling mountain ridges. It is a perfect add-on experience for adventure seekers exploring the Snow Town area.

4. Yabuli Ski Resort | 亚布力滑雪旅游度假区

Address: Yabuli Town, Shangzhi City, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province | 地址： 黑龙江省哈尔滨市尚志市亚布力镇
Introduction:
This is China’s most famous and best-equipped ski resort. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned expert, you will find suitable ski slopes here. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy snow tubing, snowmobiles, and other winter activities. It is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Geological Wonders & Mountain Lakes

Heading southeast, you will encounter wonders created by the awe-inspiring forces of nature.

5. Jingpo Lake | 镜泊湖

Address: Ning’an City, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province | 地址： 黑龙江省牡丹江市宁安市
Introduction:
China’s largest volcanic lava-dammed lake. In summer, its clear waters and roaring waterfalls create a lively landscape, while in winter, the famous Diaoshuilou Waterfall freezes into a massive icefall. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of ice activities across the vast frozen lake surface.

6. Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve | 长白山自然保护区

Address: Antu County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province | 地址： 吉林省延边朝鲜族自治州安图县
Introduction:
A dormant volcano famed for the awe-inspiring Heavenly Lake (Tianchi). In winter, the entire mountain is blanketed in snow, and Tianchi transforms into a pristine white wonder surrounded by sixteen dramatic peaks. The reserve also features volcanic canyons, untouched forests, and natural hot springs—an extraordinary display of diverse landscapes.

7. Erdaobaihe Town | 二道白河镇

Address: Changbaishan Protection & Development Zone, Antu County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province | 地址： 吉林省延边朝鲜族自治州安图县长白山保护开发区
Introduction:
The main gateway town to the North Slope of Changbai Mountain. Nearly all visitors stay here before entering the mountain. The town itself is charming, with forest parks, museums, and scenic trails that offer a peaceful way to understand the culture and nature of Changbai Mountain.

Magical Natural Phenomena

8. Jilin Rime Island (Wusong Island) | 吉林雾凇岛

Address: Wula Street Manchu Town, Longtan District, Jilin City, Jilin Province | 地址： 吉林省吉林市龙潭区乌拉街满族镇
Introduction:
One of the best places in the world to witness the legendary “rime frost” phenomenon. Warm water vapor from the upper Songhua River meets the freezing winter air, forming glittering frost on willow and pine trees along the riverbanks. At sunrise, the entire island becomes a silver, crystalline wonderland — like stepping into a serene winter fairy realm.

Travel Route and Tips

Route A (Classic Ice & Snow Loop): Harbin → Yabuli (skiing) → Ice and Snow Gallery & Datudingzi Mountain (sightseeing) → Snow Town (overnight) → return to Harbin. Takes approximately 3–4 days.

Route B (Natural Wonders Deep Tour): Harbin → Jingpo Lake → Changbai Mountain (base at Erdaobaihe) → Jilin Rime Island → end. Takes approximately 4–5 days.

Transportation: These attractions are far apart and public transport is limited. The most convenient options are hiring a car from Harbin, joining a local tour, or using long-distance buses between cities.

Best Time to Visit: Late December to February is the prime period to experience these ice and snow attractions.