Winter in China can consist of very contrasting experiences depending on where you are. Due to the varying geographical locations of different tourist destinations, you can experience a wide range of landscapes across China in winter. Harbin and Yunnan are two of the most popular winter travel destinations. Harbin immerses you in the enchantment of ice and snow, while Yunnan invites you to enjoy its mild climate and scenic beauty.
Located in northeastern China, Harbin is renowned as the country’s “Ice and Snow City.” In winter, you can admire intricate ice and snow art and take part in thrilling winter activities during your Harbin tours.
Harbin Ice and Snow World is the world’s largest ice and snow theme park, covering an area of one million square metres in 2024. Every December, ice sculptures of various forms are carved along the banks of the Songhua River and arranged according to different themes, including replicas of iconic landmarks from around the world.
At night, the park becomes even more spectacular as colourful lights illuminate the ice sculptures, creating a dazzling scene. You can enjoy lively folk performances, try popular winter sports such as ice slides and snowmobiles, and warm up with hot drinks and snacks available both inside and outside the park.
Sun Island is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, snow sculpture exhibitions, and elegant Russian-style architecture. It is one of the main venues for the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival and hosts grand snow art displays every winter.
Artists carve massive snow sculptures that blend natural beauty with artistic creativity. Walking through the park, you’ll see snow sculptures of various themes and sizes set against a picturesque winter backdrop. The Russian-style buildings on Sun Island look especially magnificent when blanketed in snow.
Zhongyang Street, the longest pedestrian street in Asia, is a living museum of European architecture. Here, you can admire buildings in various European styles and learn about Harbin’s cultural history. Notable landmarks include the Art Nouveau-style Modern Hotel and the Russian-style Huamei Restaurant, which serves authentic Russian cuisine.
In winter, both sides of the street are lined with beautiful ice sculptures illuminated by colourful lights at night. After a snowfall, Zhongyang Street transforms into a charming winter wonderland. Don’t miss local winter treats such as Modern ice cream and sugar-coated haws.
Saint Sophia Cathedral
Built in 1907 by Russian architects, Saint Sophia Cathedral is a striking example of Byzantine architecture. Its wooden structure, grand domes, and intricate stone carvings make it one of Harbin’s most iconic landmarks.
In winter, the red bricks of the cathedral contrast beautifully with the white snow, creating a breathtaking sight. Visitors often wear traditional Russian-style costumes and take photos in the cathedral square.
Yabuli Ski Resort is one of China’s top skiing destinations, offering excellent snow conditions and stunning mountain scenery. The resort features ski runs for all levels, from beginners to experts.
Professional instructors and equipment rentals are available, making it easy for first-timers to learn. Experienced skiers can take on advanced slopes, while others can enjoy snowmobiling, sledding, and ice skating on frozen lakes.
Unlike northern China, Yunnan enjoys a mild and pleasant winter climate, making it a perfect destination for those seeking warmth and scenic beauty during their Yunnan tours.
The Yuanyang Terraced Fields, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a masterpiece of agricultural engineering. Carved along the mountain slopes, these terraces present ever-changing landscapes throughout the year.
From November to March, the fields are filled with water, turning into vast natural mirrors that reflect the sky and surrounding mountains. On winter mornings, the terraces are often enveloped in a soft mist, creating a magical scene.
Located in Kunming at an altitude of 1,886 metres, Dianchi Lake covers an area of 330 square kilometres and is surrounded by rolling hills. From late October to March, thousands of red-billed gulls migrate from Siberia to spend the winter here.
You can feed the gulls and photograph them as they play over the lake’s surface. As evening falls, enjoy the stunning winter sunsets reflecting off the calm waters.
Wuliang Mountain Cherry Valley
Wuliang Mountain Cherry Valley is one of Yunnan’s most popular spots for winter flower viewing. The region’s mild climate allows early-blooming cherry blossoms to flourish between November and December each year.
The pink blossoms contrast beautifully with the green tea fields below, creating a vibrant landscape. From the observation deck, you can take in sweeping views of the valley adorned with cherry blossoms.
Xishuangbanna enjoys warm weather even in winter, making it ideal for exploring the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden—the largest and most biodiverse botanical garden in China, home to over 4,000 tropical plant species.
The garden is divided into several zones, including the Flower Garden, Aquatic Plants Zone, and Tropical Rainforest Zone. Strolling along its paths, you’ll encounter towering trees, lush vines, and exotic flowers while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this “kingdom of plants.”
China offers remarkably diverse winter travel experiences. On your harbinn tours, marvel at dazzling ice and snow sculptures and enjoy exciting winter sports. On your yunnan tours, soak up the mild weather and admire breathtaking landscapes filled with colour and warmth.
Whether you prefer snow-covered adventures or sunny winter escapes, China has something unforgettable to offer.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
