China’s Harbin transforms into a fairy-tale ice city this winter

Winter is here, and Harbin, China’s iconic “City of Ice and Snow,” is dazzling the world once again. The 27th edition of the world’s largest ice and snow theme park has opened, transforming the city into a sparkling fairy-tale wonderland that’s ready to enchant visitors from across the globe.

Spanning a record 1.2 million square meters and built with about 400,000 cubic meters of ice and snow , the park is a frozen masterpiece. On opening day alone, around 45,000 visitors flocked to experience the spectacle, wandering through icy corridors, admiring sparkling sculptures, and snapping endless photos of the breathtaking displays.

The centerpiece of the park is the towering main ice structure , crafted from approximately 39,000 cubic meters of ice . Soon to glow in vibrant colors after sunset, this massive tower anchors the festival’s whimsical landscape, surrounded by castles, bridges, pagodas, and fantastical figures that fuse traditional Chinese design with global inspiration.

Thousands of builders and artisans have labored tirelessly in subzero temperatures, carving, stacking, and sculpting ice blocks harvested from the frozen Songhua River . Thanks to Harbin’s frigid winters, where temperatures often dip between minus 15 and minus 25 degrees Celsius , the ice remains solid throughout the festival season.

The park officially opened on December 17, 2025 , ahead of the full opening ceremony on January 5, 2026 , and is expected to welcome visitors until late February, weather permitting. While the ice city is temporary, it stays frozen during the winter months, only beginning to melt naturally as spring approaches. This fleeting, ephemeral nature is part of its charm, making each visit a magical, once-a-year experience.

Beyond being a visual spectacle, Harbin’s Ice and Snow World is a full-blown winter entertainment extravaganza. From glowing ice tunnels and towering frozen castles to interactive displays and festive lights, the city becomes a playground for wonder and creativity. Every icy corner promises a picture-perfect moment, turning Harbin into China’s ultimate winter paradise for visitors seeking both adventure and enchantment.