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Humble beginnings -

The festival began as a traditional ice lantern show and winter garden party in Harbin during the 20th century. However, it has now become significantly larger.

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"Ice city" -

Harbin is situated in the northeastern part of China and experiences harsh winter winds originating from Siberia, Russia. The typical winter temperature in Harbin is approximately -16.8°C (1.8°F), with occasional drops as low as -25°C (-13°F).

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It requires a crazy amount of ice -

The city is formed by using 110,000 cubic meters (3.88 million cubic feet) of ice and 120,000 cubic meters (4.24 million cubic feet) of snow.

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It's enormous -

The city covers a vast area of 600,000 square meters (150 acres), boasting over 100 icy landmarks.

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A dazzling kick-off -

When night falls, the city undergoes a magical transformation, becoming a vibrant and enchanting realm illuminated by fireworks.

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It's a very unique wedding venue -

Not even the warmth of a newly bonded love could melt that ice!

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In 2019, over 15 couples got married -

A mass wedding occurred against the enchanting backdrop of the festival's icy fortresses in extremely cold temperatures.

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This is not your regular winter wonderland -

China is known for its over-the-top displays, but their city of ice is beyond impressive.

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Feel like an ice princess -

Experience the joy of being Elsa from 'Frozen' in an ice city!

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It's hugely popular -

The festival draws in more than one million visitors annually.

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Ways to get around -

Due to the city's size and variety of parks, it is recommended to take a charming winter train to explore the different areas.

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Ways to get around -

You can also enjoy a fairy-tale ride in a horse-drawn carriage. 

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Ways to get around -

Alternatively, you can have a family member pull you on a sled for fun.

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A sign of renewal -

The city center's prominent sign announces a "New era in China."

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Better than fiction -

The location bears a strong resemblance to the ideal backdrop for the White Walkers featured in 'Game of Thrones.'

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Neon city -

There are very few other places in the world where you can walk through a city lit up like this.

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Twilight transforms the city into crystal -

The ice transforms into enchanting shades of amethyst, quartz, amber, emerald, and turquoise when illuminated by the perfect light.

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Through the looking-ice -

This immense ice block is impressive to look at, but you'll be even more impressed when you learn its source in a few more clicks.

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Race your way -

You'll reach speeds that snow-sledding could never achieve! 

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Slippery dips -

There are five massive and exciting slides constructed entirely from ice.

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Plenty of activities -

You have the opportunity to experience hot-air balloon rides, take a dip in icy waters, and witness ice-sculpting contests.

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2,019 snowmen -

In 2019, a display of 2,019 snowmen occupied the Songhua River's surface.

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The kids love it -

It's a fantastic and lively winter experience, enhanced by the dedication of numerous hardworking adults.

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Mimicking stained glass windows -

Walking through an ice palace is a breathtaking experience, surpassing the grandeur of ordinary brick buildings.

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How do they do it? -

Chinese workers use a machine to extract sizable ice blocks from the frozen Songhua River.

In preparation for the festival, these workers gather and transport approximately 200,000 cubic meters (7.06 million cubic feet) of ice to the location.

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How do they do it? -

According to reports, the majority of the cutters are local farmers who begin their work before sunrise, enduring freezing temperatures, and earning approximately US$35 per day.

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How do they do it? -

Swing saws are utilized to create blocks from ice carved out of the Songhua River. These blocks are then lifted and arranged within an intricate scaffolding system.

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How do they do it? -

The addition of lights transforms the ice into a magnificent creation, truly building the city from scratch.

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Note the dark cityscape in the background -

An aerial view of the ice city would surely put every other city to shame. A monumental masterpiece destined for a short lifespan.

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Ice sculpture competition -

Many teams from different countries participate in a competition to create ice sculptures that will eventually return to the earth.

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Ice sculpture competition -

One artist etched the texture of wood onto ice, in a form of art that is so poetic in the way that it cannot be preserved.

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Snow sculptures -

This is from 2007, but every year the sculptures are just as astonishing as the last.

See also:  The differences between North and South Korea

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