Yep, you are still in China. Located in the north east of China, Heilongjiang province has the highest latitude in the country. The province is separated to Russia by a river running across from north to east. The province has a Siberian-ruggedness to it, with forests, lakes and mountains stretching across the white landscape. The capital city Harbin is an architecturally diverse city fusing Russian-style architecture with ski and ice festivals. So pack as many jackets as can be humanly-worn and venture into this rewarding region. And by the way, don’t forget to see the northern lights…
Harbin
The famous “City of Ice” is the provincial capital of Heilongjiang. The city has a memorizing Russian-feel to it, with innumerable Russian, Baroque and Byzantine styles buildings scattered throughout. Harbin is a great place to indulge in the unique staple food of the region: sausage, sour cream dumplings and stew (washed down with a healthy dose of local beer of course).
The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is not to be missed. The biggest ice festival in the world, held from Christmas to early March, is a dazzling array of snow and ice sculptures. If you decide to visit Harbin during the festival period, be sure to pack warm, really warm.
The Saint Sophia Cathedral is a magnificent Byzantine-style building located in the Harbin city centre. A stroll around the surrounding streets would inspire Dostoyevsky himself. The Northeast Tiger Forest Park is a nearby refuge for the endangered Siberian Tiger: the conservation efforts for these majestic creatures is very much appreciated.
And yes, if your visit to this region is fuelled by a love of skiing or snow boarding, you are spoilt for choice. Yabuli Xinhao Sun Ski Resort sees great yearly dumps, as does the Mingdu Ski Resort.
Mohe
China’s true last frontier, this is the northernmost city of the entire Middle Kingdom. With a bit of luck, visitors here can experience one of the true marvels of this world: the aurora borealis. Visit in June, July, December or January for the best chance of catching the Northern Lights. Don’t forget to take some time to explore the surrounding birch wood forests.
Yichun
Yichun is situated in the north east of Heilongjiang. Tangwang River Stone Forest Scenic Area is a great example of pristine pine-tree preservation, and the Wuying National Forest Park is an oxygen-rush alpine landscape.
