Harbin is a major economic and cultural center of China, located in Heilongjiang Province and serving as its capital. Harbin was founded by the Russians relatively recently, in 1898, as a station on the Trans-Manchurian Railway. Even today, architectural elements characteristic of Siberian architecture can be seen in the older parts of the city.
The largest Orthodox cathedral in the Far East, Hagia Sophia, built in the Byzantine style, is listed as a major national monument. In 1997, following restoration work, the cathedral was renamed the Harbin Palace of Architecture. The Church of the Intercession, dating from the early 20th century, and an obelisk dedicated to the Soviet Liberation Army are also located here.
The Jilesi Buddhist Temple, a sacred place for pilgrims in northern China, was built in the twenties of the last century.
Russian tourists will be interested in visiting a unique piece of Russia in China – the Volga Manor complex. All the buildings here are built in the Russian style. The Volga Manor grounds include hotels, estates, a souvenir shop, a business center, restaurants serving Russian, Western, and local cuisine, and a recreation center with a sauna, swimming pool, and spa. The Pushkin Salon is also located here, where visitors can learn about the history of Russian-Chinese relations.
Animal lovers can visit the Harbin Polar Aquarium, one of the city"s main attractions. It displays marine and land animals from the Arctic Circle, and hosts daily shows featuring polar bears, beluga whales, and sea lions. The Harbin Zoo is equally interesting to visit.
Sunny Island, located within the city limits on the banks of the Songhua River, is particularly popular with tourists. This lush, green island is a favorite recreation spot for Harbin residents and visitors.
From early January to late February, Harbin hosts the Snow and Ice Festival, attracting ice sculpture teams from around the world. Over two thousand snow and ice sculptures are created during the festival. The best works can be seen at the Snow and Ice World and Zhaolin Parks, as well as on Sunny Island.
The official website of the city of Harbin is http://harbin.customs.gov.cn/
