A cool getaway in Harbin

Forget ice. This north-eastern Chinese city in summer is still very nice, with plenty of dancing in the streets and gorgeous architecture

Harbin's warm, balmy weather during the summer months makes it a breeze to stroll along its broad pavements and take in the city's distinctively European vibe .
Harbin's warm, balmy weather during the summer months makes it a breeze to stroll along its broad pavements and take in the city's distinctively European vibe . PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
Harbin's warm, balmy weather during the summer months makes it a breeze to stroll along its broad pavements and take in the city's distinctively European vibe (left). One of the sites for ice carvings in winter, the 118-year-old Zhaolin Park (above)
One of the sites for ice carvings in winter, the 118-year-old Zhaolin Park becomes a retreat for boating and a pleasant amble along its historic bridges in summer. PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
Whether it is a graceful waltz or a central Asian dance complete with costumes, Harbin residents are always eager to practise their moves at Stalin Park and along Zhongyang Dajie.
Whether it is a graceful waltz or a central Asian dance complete with costumes, Harbin residents are always eager to practise their moves at Stalin Park and along Zhongyang Dajie. PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
The striking Harbin Opera House (above) sits amid the wetlands along the Songhua River.
The striking Harbin Opera House (above) sits amid the wetlands along the Songhua River. PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
Faux ice carvings are among the attractions on Sun Island, which is home to landscaped gardens, a "Russian town" and several hotels.
Faux ice carvings are among the attractions on Sun Island, which is home to landscaped gardens, a "Russian town" and several hotels. PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
The stunning interior of St Sophia Cathedral in Harbin.
The stunning interior of St Sophia Cathedral in Harbin. PHOTOS: LESLIE KOH
Leslie Koh
Updated
Aug 12, 2018, 05:00 AM
Published
Aug 12, 2018, 05:00 AM
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Mention Harbin and the image that comes quickest to mind is that of its annual ice festival, a stunning display of life-sized ice sculptures and snow carvings.

But this north-eastern Chinese city has much to offer in summer too.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on August 12, 2018, with the headline A cool getaway in Harbin. Subscribe

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