· Itchy Boots
Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China |S8, EP156
Harbin's Dark Secret: A Ride to Unit 731 in Northeast China
Explore this journey ↗Heilongjiang,China travel advice vlogs and tips
Heilongjiang
Heilongjiang travel videos and tips: explore real journeys, destination experiences and practical advice from travelers.
- Videos on this page
- 50
- Travelers
- 26
- Firsthand tips
- 96
Firsthand tips
Useful discoveries along the way
Advice from different journeys on this page, each linked to its source video.
Province channel
All travel videos
24 min2026-09Unit 731: the horrific secret hidden in Harbin, China |S8, EP156Harbin's Dark Secret: A Ride to Unit 731 in Northeast ChinaAmap, China's navigation app, can show how many traffic lights remain before you reach a destination. It can help you prepare for urban traffic and understand hHarbin's Russian and European architecture is connected to its railway history. Russian workers arrived in the 1890s to extend the Trans-Siberian Railway, and tAutumn, Harbin / Heilongjiang
19 min2026-08I’m being followed by an unmarked white van in China |S8, EP155China Motorbike Ride: Bad Weather, Giant Drones, White VanBefore leaving Arxan, fill up your tank even if you think you have enough. There would be no petrol stations along the 350-kilometer route, so starting with a fSeek out quiet backroads in northern China. The route from Arxan toward Jalaid was nearly empty, with wildflowers and rolling hills, and riding there felt more Summer, ArxanHarbin / Inner Mongolia
13 min2026-08What do I bring with me to bike across China?? Bike tour travel essentialsBike Tour in China: Packing Your Entire Life for the RideKatherine says packing cubes helped her keep clothes and other belongings organized after she had been putting things in random places. She separates shirts andOn this trip, Katherine found washing machines in many of the hotels and inns where they stayed, especially rural homestays. She says they usually did not need Summer, HangzhouXi'an / Heilongjiang
23 min2026-07RUSSIA and CHINA across the river! Visiting insane Blagoveshchensk Driving to Moscow | Day 9Russia China Border: Blagoveshchensk on Drive to MoscowA tour to Vostochny Cosmodrome costs about 5,000 rubles and can include the science village and canteen. Seeing a launch is a separate, more expensive tour thatDriving from Blagoveshchensk toward Chita includes a 1,000 km stretch with almost no gas stations. Lisa plans to carry extra fuel canisters, at least 20 L more Summer, Heihe / Heilongjiang
22 min2026-06Why do Chinese People Speak RUSSIAN in this City? (Harbin, China)Harbin: Saint Sophia Cathedral & Russian Winter FlavorsVisit Saint Sophia Cathedral early or on a Saturday to enjoy the lively square and the atmospheric live performance inside. The interior is more like a museum tSay yes to spontaneous invitations from locals. A random encounter with a Russian-speaking Harbin resident led to a traditional tea ceremony, obscure local snacSummer, Harbin / Heilongjiang
39 min2026-05Entering the China Everyone is Leaving.Experience Rural Manchuria: Real Life in China Beyond themegFrom Harbin, a regional line toward Hung Dao Hudzer offers a closer look at rural life. Expect a slower journey and more direct interactions with people in the An Aura digital photo frame or similar gift can help family share pictures from home while you travel, keeping shared moments visible beyond a single visit or cSpring, Harbin / Heilongjiang
38 min2026-05Humiliated in China’s Shady Russian Border TownCrossing Russia and China Border Town: Blagoveshchensk to HeLearn basic phrases in both Russian and Chinese. Locals appreciate the effort, and it helps bridge the cultural gap in this unique border region.If traveling in the shoulder season (spring/autumn), expect to cross the Amur River by hovercraft. In winter you can drive on the ice, and in summer you take a Spring, Heihe / Heilongjiang
27 min2026-03VLOG: Surviving -25°C in China’s Coldest City?! HARBIN ICE & SNOW WORLD | Spend Christmas with meHarbin in Winter: Christmas at Harbin Ice and Snow World andLayer up aggressively for Harbin: multiple socks, gloves, heat pads, and heated insoles; keep core warm and cover face, ears, and neck.Book ice attractions well in advance and time visits to avoid missing tickets for slides or ferris wheel.Spring, Harbin / Heilongjiang
26 min2026-02A Grandma’s feast in China’s coldest village (population: 300)Beihongcun in China’s Coldest Village: Daily Life in ExtremePlan your trip in winter to Mohe-Beihongcun and expect extreme cold; bring layered thermal wear and windproof gear.When dining in Beihongcun, embrace local farming rhythms: expect simple, intensely flavored dishes cooked in shared stoves.Winter, Mohe / Heilongjiang
29 min2026-02Harbin: China’s Coldest MegacityHarbin in Winter: Ice and Snow World and the City’s Coldest-Dress in multiple layers and prepare for standing water and wind; heat indoors is reliable but outdoor cold is extreme.Rely on centralized district heating; insulated door curtains help keep warmth in; expect warm interiors around 20 to 25 C.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
30 min2026-02Don't Visit Harbin Until You Watch THIS: Local's Guide to the Ice CityHarbin Winter Travel Guide Local Insights Beyond the IceWear multiple layers and prepare for extreme cold; walking shoes with good grip help on ice and wet surfaces.Check out the underground malls to stay warm between outdoor sights and bargain hard for local goods.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
8 min2026-02I Took a Chinese Car to –30°C… Here’s What HappenedArctic Winter Driving Challenge in Yakeshi: Testing Changan-If you’re testing icy roads, keep speeds controlled and give yourself extra distance for braking to manage traction.Use cars with adaptive driving aids and multiple sensors to anticipate slippery patches and adjust steering, power, and brakes in real time.Winter, Yakeshi / Heilongjiang
43 min2026-02350 km/h Through China's Frozen NowhereHarbin to Changchun by 350 km/h High-Speed Rail ExperienceCompare Trip.com with local platforms when buying tickets so you can check for service fees. Keep your passport nearby because it is needed at station security.Download a maps app with line directions and English support. Follow the exit route shown in A Maps to avoid unnecessary backtracking through the station.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
28 min2026-026AM in Harbin’s Craziest Market… Eating Like LocalsHarbin 6AM Morning Market Breakfast: Hidden Dongbei Street BArriving early at Harbin's Hongzhuan Market can help avoid lines and gives visitors a chance to meet local cooks. The video contrasts these daily sellers and thWhen Chinese is limited, the video suggests asking for help, pointing to an item, and letting a vendor explain or translate. That approach helped keep interactiWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
31 min2026-02I Wasn’t Ready for China’s Ice City (Harbin)Harbin Ice and Snow World travel guide: giant ice sculpturesPlan a self-guided loop to avoid missing key areas; allow extra time for crowds and food stops, especially in evenings.Try the 520 m ice slide early in the visit for shorter lines and better light near dusk—dress warmly to maximize comfort.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
46 min2026-02I Never Expected China to Look Like This (Harbin)Harbin Ice Festival Adventure in Harbin China Winter WonderlExplore Harbin's historic streets on foot with several layers of clothing, and keep heating elements ready for your hands and feet. Reanne and Ben move between Use heated indoor spaces when the cold becomes difficult. Hand warmers can help outside, and extra socks or insoles add warmth in footwear. The travelers use maWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
32 min2026-02I Flew to the Coldest City in China (−30°C / −22°F)Harbin in Extreme Cold: Surviving China’s Coldest CityPrepare winter gear in advance and be ready for extreme cold from minus 30 degrees. Expect quick airport handling and have jackets delivered if possible.Language tips: try simple Chinese phrases; plan to use changing rooms at airports to layer up before heading out.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
14 min2026-01CHINA VLOG | 48 hours in one of China’s coldest cities48 Hours in Harbin: Exploring China's Coldest CityCheck-in early at the Harbin hotel and enjoy free slippers and mini fridge items; expect good value and comfortable access.Visit St. Sophia’s Church for architecture and live music; Harbin is a music city with seasonal concerts.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
26 min2026-01Surviving CHINA’S Coldest City | Harbin (Part 2)Harbin in December: Sun Island and Ice and Snow World Cold-ТThe metro is a modern, affordable way to make short trips between Harbin sights. Always Away use it as they move around during their winter visit.Wear gloves, a coat, and boots before going outdoors in Harbin’s cold. The travelers find winter gear affordable and rely on it during their December visit.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
15 min2026-01They told us to AVOID this city in CHINA (We Ignored Them)Harbin Winter Travel: Ice Festival & Quirky Delights Despite ColdIn very cold weather, plan indoor stops and warming breaks between outdoor sights. Always Away visited food stops and shops while exploring Harbin in around -25Harbin’s Russian-influenced architecture is part of the city experience. The travelers explored buildings and tried European-style dishes alongside local winterWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
20 min2026-01Surviving -40°C in China | ULTIMATE Harbin Ice Festival & Mohe Travel GuideSurviving -40°C in Harbin and Mohe: Ultimate Ice Festival &Book Ice and Snow Festival tickets through the WeChat mini program ahead of time to reduce the risk of sold-out slots. Soph suggests arriving in mid to late aftA sleeper train to Mohe takes about 17 hours, so choose a bed for comfort and book in advance because seats can sell out quickly. Soph also mentions an early flWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
12 min2025-12I Walked a Cliffside Path in China… And It Was Unreal.Misty cliffside trek in Jiangxi’s Mingyue Mountain near YichStart with a wide lens on the local crafts and street life to set context before moving to natural wonders.Observe how traditional industries connect to global supply chains and local farming for a sense of place and economy.Winter, Yichun / Heilongjiang
28 min2025-08REAL LIFE in one of China’s least developed provinces Oddly Nostalgic!Rural Heilongjiang Life: Border Vibes and Nostalgia in Far东北Explore small towns off the main routes to capture unexpected architecture and local flavors instead of just sticking to highways.If water is scarce where you stay, ask for a local bathhouse as an alternative for showering and a local social scene.Summer, Harbin / Heilongjiang
35 min2025-04China Is Hiding a BIG Secret..(#211)China's Secret North: Harbin's Russian Chinese Border TownsStretch your legs in Harbin’s Russian-influenced streets; notice architecture and signage to understand the cultural layering.Use local taxi apps to reach remote villages; negotiate before you ride; expect long drives into the far north.Spring, Heihe / Heilongjiang
30 min2025-02Canadian's First Time in a Chinese Village! Family, Food, and Traditions in Northeast China!Northeast China Village: Culture, Family & TraditionsLearn to make dumplings from locals, even with long nails. It's a fun and interactive experience that showcases a traditional skill and cultural practice. ObserExplore Qingdao's unique blend of German-influenced architecture and Chinese culture. Visit the Qingdao Beer Museum for a taste of history and a fascinating looWinter, HarbinChangchunShenyang / Liaoning
11 min2025-01I can’t believe these snow statues are real on -20C?! HARBIN SUN ISLAND SNOW FESTIVAL #solotravelHarbin Sun Island Snow Festival: -20°C Snow SculpturesVisiting the Sun Island Snow Festival requires a ticket, costing 198 RMB. It's a park with numerous snow sculptures, so plan accordingly and dress warmly.The 37th China Harbin Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo is the winter event featured here. Expect crowds during peak hours as you explore the parWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
19 min2025-01Inside China's Snow Sculpture Festival & Longest Walking Street in Asia - HarbinHarbin Ice & Snow Festival: Sculptures & Zhongyang StreetMany local people in Harbin excel in ice and snow sculpting, having honed their skills over many years. They've become very expert at creating these beautiful sTo see how massive blocks of snow are transformed into beautiful structures, observe a sculpture being made. The process involves chipping away at the ice, usinWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
43 min2025-01Exploring The COLDEST CITY In The World | HARBIN, CHINAHarbin Ice & Snow Festival: A Cold Winter Adventure in ChinaBook Harbin Ice Festival tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly.Bundle up warmly; Harbin is one of China's coldest cities, with temperatures frequently dropping below -30°C.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
33 min2025-01HARBIN, Chinese city with Russian feel where on -20C everyone eats ice cream #harbin #solotravelHarbin: Russian Legacy in Northeast ChinaHarbin blends Russian and Chinese influences in its architecture, food and atmosphere. Walk along Zong Street to see this mix in its shops and restaurants.The Ice Festival brings crowds to Harbin in winter. Consider booking accommodation ahead of time for a visit during the event.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
21 min2025-01Want to Taste the REAL Northern China? Watch This Now!Harbin Food Tour: Daoli Market & Churin BakeryVisit Daoli Market in Harbin to sample local foods and talk with vendors. Wilco and translator Anna try several dishes and drinks there, including sausages, GuoTry the local sausages at Daoli Market and ask vendors how they are prepared. Wilco’s visit includes conversations with stallholders, and Anna helps translate aWinter, Daoli / Heilongjiang
17 min2025-01Volga Manor, Chinese built Russian village in China! -20C #solotravel #chinaHarbin's Volga Manor: A Russian Village in ChinaVolga Manor is about 15 km away from Harbin, offering a unique Russian experience without leaving China. It's a great option for those who can't travel to RussiThe village showcases stunning Slavic architecture and design patterns. Take your time to explore the intricate details and unique styles of the buildings.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
10 min2025-01China's Coldest City?Harbin Ice Festival: Exploring China's Ice CityExplore the frozen Songhua River in Harbin during winter. Witness the impressive thickness of the ice and the traditional practice of ice block cutting for the Visit Central Street in Harbin, a historic street with a unique blend of architectural styles. Take your time to appreciate the details and enjoy the friendly aWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
20 min2025-01Harbin in China, Ice and World Festival -20C This is the most amazing festival #solotravelHarbin Ice Festival: A -20°C Winter WonderlandBring a camera suited to extreme cold. The temperature at Harbin Ice and Snow World reached -20°C, and the traveler says a GoPro may not work well in this weathPrepare for crowds and long lines at the Harbin Ice Festival, especially around opening days. Some attractions require pre-registration, so check requirements iWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
16 min2024-12Harbin The Dark side of ICE CITYHarbin Ice City: Winter Structures & ChallengesIce blocks can be joined quickly using water or heated aluminum. Mr Tony watches the pieces bond within seconds during the construction process.The ice needs to be in good condition. It is transported by truck and sold to sculptors, so quality affects how much work can be used.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
13 min2024-12Harbin China ICE CITY + Cold cityHarbin Ice City: A Cold-Weather Adventure in ChinaHarbin can be extremely cold, especially when you spend a long time walking around. Dress in warm layers, and consider using hand and foot warmers for extra proIf you visit Harbin in winter, be prepared for icy conditions. Many shops have carpeted stairs to help prevent slips and falls, so take care as you walk.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
19 min2024-12A MUST watch video of HARBIN 2024Harbin 2024: Exploring the Ice City's CharmPacking for Harbin’s extreme cold takes planning: balance warm clothing with luggage weight, especially when traveling with a backpack. Mr Tony describes preparIf you plan to carry a backpack, practice walking with weight in it before the trip. Mr Tony says he trained with his pack so he could adjust to carrying it whiWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
11 min2024-02Wearing Princess Dress in Harbin & Eating Giant Ice-Cream! | Fancie in Shanghai Ep.54Harbin Winter Adventure: Princess Dress Photoshoot & Ice CreamA themed outfit and a professional photoshoot can create distinctive travel pictures. FunFancie rents a princess dress and has makeup and a photographer team atHarbin's Zhongyang Street is a busy shopping street with a range of places to explore. FunFancie compares its atmosphere with well-known shopping streets in ShaWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
10 min2024-02Harbin Ice&Snow World Blew Me Away! How to dress for -20 | Harbin Ep.2Harbin Ice & Snow World: A -20°C AdventureTo dress for -20°C, layer thermal underwear, wool tops, a down jacket and pants, a warm scarf, hat, gloves, and fur boots. Hand and foot warmers are also essentWhen visiting the Harbin Ice and Snow World, purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. The festival typically runs from late December to late February.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
16 min2023-12Harbin - Is this REALLY China?Harbin Autumn: Exploring the City of IceStart with a street-food breakfast like the potato wraps Nico tries. They offer a local food stop before sightseeing during an autumn visit to Harbin.St. Sophia's Cathedral is a former Russian Orthodox church that now serves as a museum. Its Russian architecture connects with Harbin's history and railway deveWinter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
13 min2023-11CHINA’S FROZEN CITY | LIFE IN -40 °c | Mohe, Where Boiling Water Turns to IceMohe, China: -40°C Adventure in Northernmost CityBe ready for cold dishes in Mohe, even when the weather outside is freezing. Soph's buffet included tofu and onion salad, steamed buns, cucumber salad, wood earIn Mohe's extreme cold, boiling water poured outdoors can freeze immediately. Soph demonstrates the effect, but take care with hot water and keep a safe distancAutumn, MoheHarbinShanghai / Heilongjiang
14 min2023-11SURVIVING IN -40°c IN CHINA’S ARCTIC CITY | MoheMohe, China: Arctic Survival & Reindeer EncountersConsider hiring a local guide to get around Mohe, since public transportation is limited and a guide can help arrange the trip between stops.Ask locals about the different work they do through the year. Soph's guide also works as a forest firefighter during summer, showing another side of life in MohAutumn, MoheHarbinShanghai / Heilongjiang
9 min2023-09Subways in China: How metro systems look like in 2nd-tier citiesHarbin Subway: Exploring China's 2nd-Tier City MetroHarbin Metro has three lines and 66 stations, with further expansion planned. It connects many important parts of the city and offers a practical way to get aroHarbin stations accept cash, WeChat or Alipay QR codes, and digital fingerprint scans. Rafa notes that riders can choose among these payment options.Autumn, Harbin / Heilongjiang
15 min2023-0617 HOURS ON AN ARCTIC SLEEPER TRAIN IN -40°c: Travelling to the China Russia BorderChina's Arctic Sleeper Train: Mohe AdventureExpect crowds when boarding during peak travel periods, especially in cold weather. Soph and Michelle arrive early and describe a busy platform as passengers boTrain travel can include unexpected interactions with other passengers. Soph and Michelle describe friendly encounters as part of their long ride north.Summer, Harbin / Heilongjiang
10 min2023-06What Do You Eat In -30°c?! : HARBIN STREET FOOD TOURHarbin Street Food Tour: Winter Eats in HeilongjiangCentral Street offers Harbin visitors a mix of Russian-influenced and Chinese food, with stalls and restaurants serving regional dishes. Take time to sample whaZhongyang Street is a historic Harbin street lined with European-style buildings. Browse its shops and take in the architecture and atmosphere at an unhurried pSummer, Harbin / Heilongjiang
16 min2023-06SURVIVING IN -40°c : Is This Russia or China?!Harbin Ice Festival: A -40°c China AdventureBe prepared for extreme cold weather in Harbin, pack extra warm clothes and layers to stay warm. Consider thermal underwear, warm jackets, hats, gloves, and scaExplore Harbin's unique ice sculptures along the roads. These impressive works of art are evidence of the city's blend of Russian and Chinese cultures.Summer, Harbin / Heilongjiang
8 min2021-09The BEST way to explore new places 探索新地方的最好的方式Jiagedaqi Exploration: A Northeastern China AdventureJiagedaqi's street markets sell forest products such as hazelnuts, blueberry juice and mushrooms. These goods reflect the city's connection with the surroundingKatherine notices Russian and Chinese architectural styles in Jiagedaqi. Taking time to look at the buildings helps show the cultural influences present in the Autumn, Jiagedaqi / Heilongjiang
9 min2020-02Snow and Ice Festival - Harbin, ChinaHarbin Sun Island Snow World: A Breathtaking Winter JourneyHave coffee before setting out to Harbin's winter attractions; it can give you some energy before a day of walking and sightseeing.A cable car ride offers views over Harbin and the Songhua River, giving you a different perspective on the city's winter landscape.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
10 min2020-02Snow and Ice World - Harbin, ChinaHarbin Ice and Snow Festival: A Magical Winter JourneyA local breakfast gives visitors energy for exploring Harbin. Trying regional dishes is one way to experience the city’s food culture.Central Street is a pedestrian area in Harbin with shops and, during the festival, ice sculptures. It is a place to take in the winter atmosphere.Winter, Harbin / Heilongjiang
Heilongjiang,China: There are 50 China travel vlogs/videos about Heilongjiang. Get travel tips, rules and advice for "Heilongjiang". China Travel Guide: Heilongjiang