From Hainan 海南 to Harbin 哈尔滨 …

December 2013. From the tropical far south of China to the frozen far north, a temperature difference of around 50C in winter!

The Harbin International Snow and Ice Festival starts in early January. In 2014, the festival celebrated its 50th birthday and was bigger than ever. See the snow sculptures by day and the ice lantern structures by night. A winter wonderland :)

Runs to the end of February (approximately, weather dependent).

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Harbin, located in the northeastern part of China's Heilongjiang province, is known for its bitterly cold winters, Russian-influenced architecture, and the world-famous Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Here's a guide for tourists visiting Harbin:

Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival:
Harbin Ice and Snow World: This massive winter wonderland features elaborate ice and snow sculptures, illuminated by colorful lights. Visitors can marvel at ice castles, sculptures of famous landmarks, and intricate ice carvings.

Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo: Located on Sun Island in the Songhua River, this exhibition showcases large-scale snow sculptures created by artists from around the world.

Ice Lantern Festival: Held in Zhaolin Park, the Ice Lantern Festival features stunning ice lanterns, sculptures, and ice slides. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, fireworks, and traditional activities like ice fishing.

Russian Influence:
Central Avenue (Zhongyang Street): This pedestrian street is lined with European-style buildings dating back to the early 20th century, reflecting Harbin's history as a Russian trading outpost. Visitors can explore shops, cafes, and restaurants housed in these historic buildings.

St. Sophia Cathedral: This iconic landmark is one of the largest Orthodox churches in China. Built in the Russian Byzantine style, the cathedral now serves as a museum showcasing Harbin's multicultural history.

Cultural Attractions:
Harbin Confucian Temple: This ancient temple complex dates back to the Qing Dynasty and is dedicated to the philosopher Confucius. Visitors can explore traditional Chinese architecture, gardens, and historic artifacts.

Harbin Snow Sculpture Art Expo: Held in Sun Island Scenic Area during the winter months, this exhibition features intricate snow sculptures created by talented artists from around the world.

Modern Attractions:
Harbin Polarland: This theme park offers the opportunity to see a variety of Arctic animals up close, including polar bears, beluga whales, and Arctic foxes. Visitors can also enjoy animal performances and interactive exhibits.

Siberian Tiger Park: Located on the outskirts of Harbin, this wildlife park is home to over 500 Siberian tigers, as well as other exotic animals such as lions, leopards, and lynxes. Visitors can take guided tours and observe the animals from a safe distance.

Practical Tips:
Weather: Harbin experiences extremely cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Visitors should dress warmly and be prepared for snow and icy conditions.

Transportation: Harbin has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trams, as well as taxis and ride-hailing services. The city is also served by Harbin Taiping International Airport.

Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but English may not be widely spoken outside of tourist areas. It's helpful to learn a few basic phrases or carry a translation app.

Harbin's unique blend of Russian and Chinese influences, coupled with its spectacular winter festivities, makes it a captivating destination for tourists. Whether you're marveling at ice sculptures, exploring historic landmarks, or experiencing the city's cultural heritage, Harbin offers a memorable and immersive travel experience.

HaiNan map

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With China Walking Tour ... FengHuang Ancient Water Town Visitor Guide Fenghuang Ancient Town, located in western Hunan Province, is one of China's most well-preserved ancient towns, known for its picturesque riverside setting, traditional wooden houses, and rich cultural heritage. This guide will help you explore the town’s unique charm and provide practical information to ensure a memorable visit. Overview of Fenghuang Ancient Town History & Culture: Fenghuang, meaning "Phoenix," was built in the Ming Dynasty (around 1704) and is a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture and riverside living. The town is home to the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities, whose distinct customs, folk art, and architecture add a rich cultural layer to the town's charm. Strolling along the banks of the Tuojiang River, you’ll be surrounded by ancient stilted houses (diaojiaolou), stone-paved streets, and peaceful bridges that seem frozen in time. Why Visit: With its well-preserved historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and scenic river views, Fenghuang is a must-visit destination for those interested in Chinese history, culture, and photography. Visitors can enjoy riverboat rides, explore narrow alleyways, and visit local shops selling traditional crafts. Key Attractions in Fenghuang Tuojiang River The lifeblood of Fenghuang, the Tuojiang River runs through the heart of the town. Stroll along its banks, take a boat ride, or photograph the iconic wooden houses perched on stilts over the water. The river comes alive at night, with beautifully illuminated buildings reflecting on the water. Diaojiaolou (Stilt Houses) The stilted wooden houses that line the Tuojiang River are some of Fenghuang's most recognizable architectural features. These traditional houses, built by the Miao people, offer a glimpse into the area's ancient construction techniques and local way of life. Many of these houses are now home to cafes, guesthouses, and shops. Hongqiao Wind and Rain Bridge One of the most famous landmarks in Fenghuang, the Hongqiao Bridge is a beautiful covered bridge with traditional Chinese architecture. It serves as both a pedestrian passage and a scenic spot for photographs. Inside, the bridge hosts shops selling local crafts and snacks. East Gate Tower The East Gate Tower (Dongmen Tower) was originally built as part of the town's fortifications during the Ming Dynasty. This well-preserved tower offers great views of the ancient town and the river. A walk through the gates is a step back into the town’s historical past. Miao Ethnic Museum This museum provides an in-depth look at the culture, history, and lifestyle of the Miao ethnic group, which is native to the Fenghuang area. It is an excellent stop for those interested in learning more about the rich cultural traditions of the region, including their festivals, clothing, and traditional crafts. Travel Tip: While the daytime charm of Fenghuang is undeniable, the town is especially magical at night, when the lights illuminate the riverside buildings and bridges, creating a serene atmosphere for evening strolls. Practical Travel Information for Fenghuang When to Visit The best time to visit Fenghuang Ancient Town is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) seasons, when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are more manageable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter, though quieter, can be quite cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Getting to Fenghuang By Air: The nearest airport is Tongren Fenghuang Airport, which is about 30 kilometers from the town. From the airport, travelers can take a bus or taxi to reach Fenghuang. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Zhangjiajie or Changsha and take a bus or train to the town, though this will involve a longer journey. By Train: Fenghuang does not have a train station, but the nearest train station is Jishou Railway Station, about 50 kilometers away. From there, travelers can take a bus or taxi to Fenghuang, which takes about an hour. By Bus: Regular buses run from nearby cities such as Zhangjiajie, Jishou, and Changsha. The bus journey from Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang takes approximately 4 hours, while it is around 6 hours from Changsha. Accommodation Fenghuang offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels. Many of the traditional stilt houses along the river have been converted into guesthouses, offering a unique stay with scenic river views. For those seeking more comfort, hotels in the town center provide modern amenities. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak travel seasons. Cultural Sensitivity As Fenghuang is home to ethnic minorities such as the Miao and Tujia, visitors should be mindful of local customs. When visiting minority villages or interacting with locals, it's important to respect their traditions and dress modestly. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially in more rural areas. Language Mandarin is the official language, but many locals also speak the Miao language. English is not widely spoken, so it's useful to have a translation app or learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to make communication easier. Local Cuisine Fenghuang’s cuisine reflects the flavors of Hunan Province, known for its spicy dishes. Be sure to try the local specialties, such as sour fish soup (suantang yu), Miao-style grilled fish, and pickled vegetables. There are also numerous street food vendors offering local snacks like glutinous rice cakes and fried tofu. Travel Tip: Fenghuang can be quite crowded during Chinese public holidays, especially the National Day Golden Week in October. Plan your visit outside these peak periods for a more peaceful experience. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Fenghuang Day 1: Arrive in Fenghuang, check in to your riverside guesthouse, and take an evening stroll along the Tuojiang River to enjoy the illuminated scenery. Day 2: Visit the Hongqiao Wind and Rain Bridge, explore the East Gate Tower, and take a riverboat ride along the Tuojiang River. In the afternoon, wander through the ancient alleyways and visit the Miao Ethnic Museum. Day 3: Explore the surrounding countryside by visiting nearby Miao or Tujia villages, where you can learn more about their traditional crafts and culture. Return to Fenghuang in the evening for dinner and a relaxed evening by the river.

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