When it comes to winter in China, Harbin always tops the list of the most enchanting destinations. This city, where ice and snow paint magnificent structures, has become an ideal meeting place for those who love the cold and enjoy conquering new lands. Travel blogger Ha Hien, who recently took a trip to this icy land at the beginning of the year, shares his unforgettable experiences.

Ha Hien had been planning a trip to Harbin for two years, but it wasn't until this winter that he finally had the chance to realize his dream. He chose to visit during the New Year, a time when the city is at its most vibrant, adorned with magnificent ice sculptures. The first thing that struck him upon arriving in Harbin was the harsh, biting cold.

"My first impression upon arriving in Harbin was that the cold here is no joke. I had to wear four layers of jackets and three layers of pants to withstand the -20°C temperature. It felt like stepping into a completely different world, where everything is covered in ice, but that's precisely why it's so unusually beautiful," Ha Hien shared.

When mentioning Harbin, one cannot overlook the Ice and Snow Festival – one of the four largest ice and snow festivals in the world, held annually from January to February. Originating from ice sculpting competitions in the 1960s, the festival has now developed into an international event, attracting millions of visitors each year. Located in the heart of the city, the ice and snow park is home to colossal ice sculptures, intricately carved and illuminated by millions of sparkling lights, creating a magical universe in the middle of winter.

"This is a very spectacular festival with magnificent ice sculptures, and I was very lucky to participate. Walking among these sculptures was truly amazing; I really admire the creativity and the investment and meticulousness of the people in Northeast China," he expressed.

Besides admiring the ice sculptures, visitors can also participate in exciting activities such as ice skating, sledding, or enjoying spectacular light shows every evening.

Ha Hien's New Year became even more special when he decided to celebrate New Year's Eve at Snow Village – one of the most famous winter tourist destinations in Heilongjiang Province. Located at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, the village is covered in thick snow year-round, creating a magical, fairytale-like scene. Snow-covered wooden roofs, winding paths through pine forests, and vibrant red lanterns make the atmosphere even more mysterious and warm.

Recalling the trip, Ha Hien was still deeply moved: "Experiencing the transition from the old year to the new year here was an indescribable feeling, like living in a dream. Here, tourists and locals also organized fireworks displays very early, starting at 8 pm, lighting up the sky. Each brilliant burst of fireworks, combined with the magical beauty of the snow village, created a truly breathtaking scene. I will always remember that New Year's Eve moment; it remains the most beautiful New Year's Eve celebration I've ever had."

Beyond its picturesque landscapes, Harbin also offers real challenges for those who love unspoiled nature. One of the standout destinations for adventurous travelers is Mount Changbai – a volcanic mountain range located on the border between China and North Korea. This is home to Tianchi Lake, the world's highest caldera lake, perpetually covered in ice.

In winter, temperatures at the mountaintop can drop below -30 degrees Celsius, with heavy snowfall and biting winds, creating a magnificent yet challenging landscape. To reach the summit, visitors need to travel by specialized vehicle and prepare warm clothing. However, those who persevere will be richly rewarded with breathtaking views of the deep blue Tianchi Lake amidst the snow-covered landscape, creating a rare natural masterpiece. Not everyone has the opportunity to witness this beauty, but for those who have made it, it is an unforgettable experience.

"When I stood on the mountaintop, the biting wind chilled me to the bone, but the surrounding scenery was so surreal that I was overwhelmed with excitement. Amidst the majestic nature, I felt incredibly small, but also incredibly fortunate to witness a beauty that not everyone gets the chance to experience," Hien recounted.

For those planning to explore the city, Ha Hien emphasizes the importance of preparing warm clothing: "You absolutely must have thermal shirts, heat patches, waterproof gloves, thick socks, and snow boots. Your phone also needs to be kept warm because the battery will drain very quickly." He also advises everyone to explore Harbin early, because "in a few years, the original beauty of winter here may no longer be as it is now."

Harbin, with its enchanting scenery and unforgettable experiences, is definitely a destination that anyone who loves winter should visit at least once. As Ha Hien shared: "Come, feel, and let the cold of this place be etched into your memory – a memory of ice, snow, light, and fairytale dreams in real life."