Hotels in Harbin

About Harbin

Harbin is a city in northeast China, known for being very cold in winter, having Russian-style buildings, and hosting a famous ice festival. Every year from December to February, Harbin hosts the Ice and Snow Festival. There are huge castles, animals, and buildings made of ice and snow, lit with colourful lights. It's like a fairytale, great for photos and fun in the snow!

The best attractions to visit in Harbin

The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is the most famous attraction in the city. Every winter, artists build giant castles, sculptures, and buildings out of ice and snow. These ice structures are lit with colourful lights, making the whole place look like a glowing winter wonderland. It's like walking through a dream made of ice!

The festival usually starts in late December and lasts until February, depending on the weather. You can visit Ice and Snow World, Sun Island, and other festival parks to see the amazing displays. There are also fun winter activities like ice slides, snow tubing, and skating. Be sure to dress very warmly, as it gets extremely cold, but the magical experience is worth it!

How safe is Harbin for tourists?

Harbin is generally safe for tourists, including solo travellers, families, and international visitors. Like many cities in China, it has a low crime rate compared to many Western cities. Locals are usually friendly and helpful, even if they don’t speak much English. Overall, if you're careful and prepared for the cold, Harbin is a safe and enjoyable city to visit.

What is the weather like in Harbin?

Harbin has very cold winters and cool to warm summers. In winter (December to February), the temperature can drop to -20°C or even -30°C, especially in January. It often snows, and the city looks like a snowy fairytale. The air is dry, and the sky is usually clear. If you visit during this time, make sure to wear a thick coat, boots, gloves, a hat, and a scarf to stay warm.

In summer (June to August), the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures around 20°C to 28°C. It’s a good time to walk around the parks, enjoy river views, and go to outdoor markets. Spring and autumn are short and can be chilly, especially at night. So even in summer, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket just in case.

How to get from Harbin Airport to the city centre?

Airport Shuttle Bus

• Line 1: Harbin Airport → Kang’an Road → Anfa Bridge → Harbin Railway Station → Civil Aviation Hotel
• Line 2: Harbin Airport → Harbin West Bus Station → Clothing Center → Harbin University of Science and Technology → Convention Center
• Line 3: Harbin Airport → Central Street (Zhongyang Street) → Daowai Coach Station → Harbin East Railway Station
• Line 4: Harbin Airport → Harbin North Railway Station → Ice and Snow World

The buses operate from early morning until late evening, with departures every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the line. The journey to downtown typically takes about 50 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Taxi

Taxis are available 24/7 outside the airport terminals. A ride to downtown Harbin takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. It's helpful to have your destination written in Chinese to avoid communication issues.

The best restaurants in Harbin?

Lao Chu Jia

Address: No. 305 Nanxun Street, Daowai District, Harbin

Established over a century ago, Lao Chu Jia is renowned for its authentic Dongbei dishes like Guo Bao Rou (sweet and sour pork). The restaurant also serves as a cultural museum, showcasing historical artefacts on its walls.

Lucia Restaurant

Address: No. 53, West Qidao Street, Central Street Leisure Area, Daoli District, Harbin.

Tucked away near Central Avenue, Lucia offers a cosy atmosphere reminiscent of a 19th-century Russian home. It's celebrated for its traditional Russian dishes and warm ambience.

Huamei Western Restaurant

Address: No. 222 Changchun Street, Daowai District, Harbin

Operating since 1925, Huamei is one of Harbin's oldest Western restaurants, offering a menu rich in Russian classics and other European cuisines.

Jingangshan BBQ

Address: No. 55-1 West Qidao Street, Daoli District, Harbin

This restaurant is a popular spot for barbecue lovers. Jingangshan BBQ is known for its generous portions and lively atmosphere, accommodating over 2,000 diners at a time.

Fengye Cafe

Address: China, Heilongjiang, Harbin, Daoli District, Youyi Rd, 370

Fengye Cafe offers a cosy environment with a wide range of beverages, including coffee, tea, and smoothies. It's an ideal spot for relaxation or catching up with friends.

Top shopping malls in Harbin

Parkson Shopping Centre

Address: 222 Zhongyang Street, Daoli District, Harbin

Located on the famous Central Street, Parkson is a well-known department store offering a wide range of international and local brands. It's an excellent place to shop for fashion, cosmetics, and household items, all while enjoying the historic architecture of the area.

MYKAL Department Store

Address: Intersection of Shangzhi Street and Shitoudao Street, Nangang District, Harbin

MYKAL is one of Harbin's upscale shopping centers, featuring numerous world-famous brand names. It's a great destination for those looking for high-end fashion, cosmetics, and dining options.

The MIXC

Address: Juyuan Street, Songbei District, Harbin

The MIXC is a large, comprehensive shopping mall that includes supermarkets, clothing stores, footwear, jewellery shops, and more. It's a modern shopping destination catering to a wide range of shopping needs.

Budget hotels in Harbin

Huidong Fashion Hotel

Address: 17 Xiajiashu St, Nan Gang Qu, Ha Er Bin Shi, Hei Long Jiang Sheng, China, 150006

Huidong Fashion Hotel is a budget-friendly option located in the heart of Nangang District. It offers clean, basic rooms with modern touches and is a convenient choice for travellers looking to stay near Harbin’s city centre and local restaurants.

Harbin Xishuiyuanquan B&B

Address: 18-13 East of Kelly Auto Plaza, Zhongyuan Aveneu, Songbei Qu, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Harbin Xishuiyuanquan B&B is set in the quiet Songbei area, close to the Kelly Auto Plaza. It’s a nice choice for visitors who want a more homely stay, with warm service and easy access to the Ice and Snow World during winter.

Harbin Summer Hotel

Address: No.49 Pujiang Road, Xiangfang Qu, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, 150090

Harbin Summer Hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms in the Xiangfang District, which is known for being peaceful and local. It’s a good pick for business or long-stay travellers who want a quiet setting with good transport links.

Harbin Houhai Hotel

Address: No.663 Xueyuan Road, Songbei Qu, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Located in the Songbei District, Harbin Houhai Hotel is a modern hotel with clean facilities and a good location near attractions like Harbin Polarland and the Ice Festival area. It suits tourists who want to stay close to winter events.

Harbin Golden Sunshine Hotel

Address: Near Xuanwu Road, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Golden Sunshine Hotel is a mid-range stay offering neat rooms and friendly service. It’s conveniently located near Xuanwu Road and suits both business and leisure travellers looking for easy access to local shops and dining.

Top-rated luxury hotels in Harbin

The Ritz-Carlton, Harbin

Address: Tower 1, No 660 West Youyi Road, Daoli District, Daoli, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, 150018

The Ritz-Carlton is a very fancy and luxurious hotel by the river. It has big, beautiful rooms, great views, and excellent service. It’s perfect for travellers who want to relax in style and be close to shopping and famous places like Central Street.

Grand Mercure Harbin Downtown

Address: Urban and Rural Road, No.334, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Grand Mercure Harbin is located in the downtown area and is part of a trusted international brand. The rooms are clean and modern, and it’s close to many shops and places to eat. It’s a good choice for both tourists and business travellers.

Shangri-La Harbin

Address: 555 Youyi Rd, Dao Li Qu, Ha Er Bin Shi, Hei Long Jiang Sheng, China, 150018

Shangri-La Harbin is a high-end hotel near the river and the Ice and Snow Festival area. It has stylish rooms, a swimming pool, and a great breakfast buffet. It’s a popular place for people who want comfort and good service during their trip.

Wanda Realm Harbin

Address: 158 Zhongxing Blvd, Nan Gang Qu, Ha Er Bin Shi, Hei Long Jiang Sheng, China, 150080

Wanda Realm is a comfortable hotel in a busy part of Harbin, near shopping centres and offices. The rooms are warm and modern, and the staff are helpful. It’s great for families or anyone who wants a relaxed stay with everything nearby.

JW Marriott Hotel Harbin River North

Address: Chuangxin Yi Road, 199, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, 150028

JW Marriott is a luxury hotel in the newer Songbei area, not far from the Ice Festival and Harbin Polarland. It offers big rooms, a fitness centre, and great dining options. It’s ideal for guests who want modern comfort and a peaceful location.

Pet-friendly hotels in Harbin

Sofitel Harbin

Address: 68 Ganshui Road, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, 150090

Sofitel Harbin allows one pet up to 20 kg at no additional fee. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Pets cannot be left unattended in the room. Food and water bowls are provided.

Harbin North International Youth Hostel

Address: No.65 Dijie Street, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, 150016

Harbin North International Youth Hostel allows pets. The hostel also offers affordable accommodation with free Wi-Fi and is located a 25-minute walk from Central Street.

Harbin Huicun Staying at B&B

Address: Near Daoli District, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Harbin Huicun Staying at B&B allows pets. This B&B offers a homely atmosphere with clean rooms and is located near Wujia Railway Station and Harbin Taiping International Airport.

Harbin Nangang Hash Railway Station·

Address: Donghui Pearl Garden, 555 Zhongxing Avenue, Nangang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China

Harbin Nangang Hash Railway Station allows pets. The hotel is situated in the Nangang district, close to Harbin Heilongjiang University Station and offers modern amenities.

Local cuisines in Harbin

• Guo Bao Rou: Crispy sweet and sour pork slices, a famous Northeast China dish made with deep-fried pork in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce.
• Harbin Red Sausage: Smoked sausage with garlic and spices. It was originally from Russia, it’s juicy and flavourful, and often eaten as a snack or with bread.
• Di San Xian: Stir-fried potato, eggplant, and green pepper. It is a hearty and tasty vegetarian dish commonly served at family meals.
• Dongbei Dumplings: Boiled or pan-fried dumplings filled with pork, beef, or vegetables. It is a staple in Northeastern Chinese homes, usually dipped in vinegar and garlic sauce.
• Shaokao: Northeastern Chinese BBQ, skewered meats, seafood, and vegetables grilled over charcoal, popular in Harbin’s night markets.
• Stewed Pork with Vermicelli: A warming stew of pork chunks and chewy potato noodles. This dish is perfect for cold winters. It is full of rich, meaty flavour.
• Cabbage and Vermicelli Hotpot: A sour and savoury hotpot made with pickled Chinese cabbage, vermicelli, and meat, a beloved dish in Harbin homes.
• Russian Borscht: Beet-based soup with tomato, beef, and vegetables that was brought to Harbin by Russian immigrants and adapted into a local favourite.
• Glutinous Rice Cake: Steamed sticky rice bun filled with sweet red bean paste, soft and chewy, usually enjoyed as a snack or breakfast.
• Frozen Pear: A winter treat where whole pears are frozen solid and served cold, it is a sweet, icy snack loved during Harbin’s snowy season.

Family-friendly attractions in Harbin

• Harbin Ice and Snow World: A magical winter theme park with huge ice castles, colourful lights, and fun slides. It is best visited at night for the glowing sculptures.
• Harbin Polarland: A fun marine park where families can watch penguins, polar bears, seals, and live animal shows. It is great for kids who love sea creatures.
• Sun Island Scenic Area: A large, peaceful park with pretty landscapes, swan lakes, and walking paths. It also hosts the Snow Sculpture Art Expo in winter.
• Harbin Siberian Tiger Park: A wildlife park where you can see Siberian tigers roaming in large enclosures. There are also lions, leopards, and even tiger cubs.
• Harbin Science and Technology Museum: An interactive museum with hands-on exhibits about space, robots, and energy. It is great for curious kids and family learning fun.
• Harbin Ropeway: Take a cable car ride across the Songhua River, and you’ll get great views of the city and ice activities below in winter.
• Central Street: A lively walking street with Russian-style buildings, local snacks, ice cream, and shops. It is fun for strolling and people-watching.
• Harbin Forest Botanical Garden: A big green space with beautiful plants, flowers, and seasonal displays. It is perfect for a picnic or a calm family walk.
• Lao DaoWai: An old town area with colourful, historic buildings and traditional food stalls. It is good for taking photos and trying local snacks.

How to travel from Harbin to nearby tourist destinations?

• High-Speed Train (CRH): Connects Harbin to nearby cities like Daqing, Qiqihar, and Mudanjiang, offering fast and comfortable travel for sightseeing or day trips.
• Long-Distance Bus: Buses from Harbin Long-Distance Bus Station go to scenic spots like Wudalianchi (volcano park), Yabuli Ski Resort, and China Snow Town.
• Domestic Flights: Harbin Taiping International Airport offers short flights to nearby provinces like Jilin and Inner Mongolia for quicker regional travel.
• Harbin Metro + Taxi: Useful for reaching nearby areas like Sun Island, Harbin Ice and Snow World, or Songbei District with a mix of train and car rides.
• Harbin Ropeway (Cable Car): A fun and scenic way to cross the Songhua River and reach the Sun Island Scenic Area or ice activities during winter.
• Private Car/Taxi/Ride-hailing: Convenient for visiting places like Yabuli Ski Resort or China Snow Town. Can be booked easily using a ride-hailing app.
• Group Tours/Charter Bus: Available through local tour companies for day trips to ski resorts, snow festivals, or remote mountain areas with a guide.

How to book a hotel room in Harbin online?

To book your stay in Harbin online, you can visit Traveloka website or apps. Then, input your check-in and check-out dates with the number of guests, this is a way to view available room options. Select your preferred room type and follow the prompts to enter your personal details and payment information. Lastly, review your reservation details and confirm the booking to complete the process.

To make your trip even more convenient, book your tickets and accommodations through Traveloka. With Traveloka, you can find the best deals on any tickets, nearby hotels, flights, and more tourist attractions. Plus, you can read reviews and get travel tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. Start planning your adventure today with Traveloka and enjoy a hassle-free memorable trip!