First time visiting Harbin? This guide has everything you need!

This winter, why not embark on a journey to the world of ice and snow? From the exotic romance of Harbin, the dreamy mushroom houses of Snow Town, the frozen Tianchi Lake of Changbai Mountain, to the spicy charm of Korean culture in Yanji, this itinerary is the ultimate winter romantic getaway! Save this guide and set off with ease! 🧤Travel Essentials ✅Warm clothing: Quick-dry sweat-wicking base layer, fleece mid-layer for insulation, and a long waterproof down coat for the outer layer. For the lower body, wear fleece-lined pants and windproof outer pants, paired with high-top anti-slip snow boots. ✅Key accessories: A Lei Feng hat, touchscreen gloves, a thick scarf, and snow goggles are must-haves. Bring enough hand warmers for each day, and don’t forget to stick one on your phone! Also, pack a large-capacity power bank and a thermos. ✅Skincare tips: The Northeast is extremely dry, so bring high-moisturizing face cream, lip balm, and hydrating face masks to keep your skin protected. 🚗Transportation Guide ✈️Major transportation: The best option is to fly into Harbin and out of Yanji, avoiding backtracking and making the trip efficient. 🚘Intercity travel: The attractions are far apart, and winter road conditions can be challenging. It’s highly recommended to hire a car with a professional driver experienced in snow driving. The cost is approximately 500-800 RMB per day (SUV). 📅Itinerary Overview 👉Day 1: Central Street → St. Sophia Cathedral → Ice and Snow World → Stay in Harbin 👉Day 2: Harbin → Yabuli Ski Resort → Horse-drawn sled ride → Stay in Yabuli 👉Day 3: Yabuli to Snow Town Road → Datudingzi Mountain → Ice and Snow Gallery → Stay in Snow Town 👉Day 4: Snow Town → Snow Charm Street → Jingpo Lake Winter Fishing → Stay in Erdaobaihe 👉Day 5: Changbai Mountain Tianchi Lake → Green Deep Pool → Hot Springs → Stay in Erdaobaihe 👉Day 6: Mysterious Drift → Yanji Folk Park → Popular Bullet Wall → Stay in Yanji 👉Day 7: Yanji → Water Market → Return from Yanji/Harbin/Changchun 🏨Accommodation Recommendations 🏡Harbin: Stay near Central Street for convenient access to dining, shopping, and attractions. 🏡Snow Town: Experience the unique kang bed-stove inns near Snow Charm Street, where red lanterns light up the snowy night. Be sure to book in advance. 🏡Changbai Mountain: For budget-friendly options, stay in Erdaobaihe Town. For a luxurious experience, choose a hot spring hotel in the Wanda or Luneng Resort areas. 🏡Yanji: Stay near Yanbian University, where you’ll find the popular bullet wall and countless food options just steps away. 🍲Food Guide 🍱Harbin: Try Lao Chu’s sweet and sour pork, Madieer ice cream bars, and authentic iron pot stews. 🍱Snow Town: Enjoy hot iron pot stewed goose and the unique taste of frozen pears and persimmons. 🍱Changbai Mountain: Don’t miss the hot spring boiled eggs at the Hot Spring Plaza and the soft and chewy Korean rice cakes. 🍱Yanji: Indulge in Jeonju bibimbap, Soonhee cold noodles, and the rice cake sausages at the Water Market morning market. It’s a true foodie paradise! ⚠️Tips and Precautions 1️⃣Phones lose battery quickly in extreme cold and may even shut down. Stick a hand warmer on your phone and carry a power bank. 2️⃣Learn the "penguin walk"—take small steps, lean slightly forward, and don’t put your hands in your pockets to avoid slipping. 3️⃣The temperature difference between indoors and outdoors can be significant. Dress in layers and adjust accordingly to prevent catching a cold. Place your camera in a sealed bag before entering warm indoor spaces to prevent lens fogging. 4️⃣Some attractions like Changbai Mountain Tianchi Lake may close temporarily due to bad weather. Check official updates before heading out. 5️⃣Choose restaurants with clear pricing and be cautious of overly cheap tour packages.