Harbin - Heilongjiang Province

Many of Harbin's most interesting buildings are Russian influenced and are the legacy of a history that has been intertwined with Russia's over the past couple of centuries. They afford an attractive backdrop to a city most famous for its winter activities and the splendid Ice Lantern Festival which takes place from January through to February. During the festival huge blocks of ice are carved into plant, animal and building shapes and then lit from within to provide an amazing spectacle.