Harbin’s winter wonderland takes shape with record use of ice and snow

As winter descends upon Northeast China, the city of Harbin is gearing up for its most spectacular ice and snow season yet. The construction of the 27th Harbin Ice and Snow World, a premier winter attraction, officially commenced on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. This year’s edition promises to be the largest in history, spanning an impressive 1.2 million square meters. To ensure an early opening, 200,000 cubic meters of ice harvested from the frozen Songhua River last winter have been meticulously preserved using a combination of traditional ice-storage techniques and modern insulation methods. These blocks, free from the air bubbles found in man-made ice, are essential for the intricate carvings and structures that define the park. The first batch of ice will be used to construct the park’s centerpiece, the super ice slide, and the main tower. Harbin Ice and Snow World Co has employed advanced technology to maintain the ice’s integrity, even during the scorching summer months when temperatures soared above 30°C. This year’s park is set to be a winter wonderland like no other, attracting visitors from across the globe to experience the magic of Harbin’s icy artistry.