The capital of Heilongjiang province also the largest provincial capital
in China; the political, economical cultural, scientific, technological
and transportation center of Heilongjiang; one of the historical and cultural
cities in China; a tourist resort and a summer resort also known as "Bingcheng";
an area with multiple ethnic groups.
Once a small and quiet fishing village on the Songhua River, Harbin has
grown into the educational, cultural, industrial and political center
of northeast China. It has a population of 2.54 million by 1997.
Although for most people, Harbin (nicknamed "Ice city"), is
famous for its spectacular winter activities. The Ice Lantern Festival
in Zhaolin Park usually starts in January 5th and lasts till February.
Fanciful ice sculptures are crafted in the shapes of animals, plants,
buildings or legendary figures. At night the sculptures are illuminated
from inside with colorful lights, turning the river-side park into a fantasy-land.
The Songhua River gives Harbin a touch of lively beauty. During the summer,
the sandy banks of the river turns into a beach with swimming, boating,
fishing, sand-volleyball, ice-cream stands and photo booths. The best
place for river fun is Stalin Park and the mid-river Sun Island. During
the winter, the river freezes and becomes a virtual playground for hockey,
skating, ice-sailing, sledding, sleighing, and fishing.
For tourist with a shopping mind, Harbin is famous for furs (mink etc),
deer antlers etc. Siberian ginseng is another strong reconmmendation.
Daoli District, close to the Songhua River, has the best specialty shops.
Another shopping area is around the International Hotel in the mid-town,
about 8 km south-east away from the Songhua.
In summary, Harbin is a beautiful and attractive city, with ice-solid
content and more importantly, spring-cool style.
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