From Onion Domes to Frozen Popsicles: A Walk Through Harbin's Russian Heart
In the depths of the Manchurian winter, one Chinese city transforms into a fairytale of Russian onion domes, European boulevards, and snow-dusted charm. Welcome to Harbin, the "Moscow of the East." Its unique character is a direct result of its history as a key hub on the Russian-built Chinese Eastern Railway, and a walk through its historic center feels like a journey to another country.
Your route should begin at the magnificent, green-domed St. Sophia Cathedral, a former Russian Orthodox church from 1907 that looks like it was plucked straight from Moscow's Red Square. From there, head to the famous Zhongyang Street (Central Avenue). This mile-long pedestrian boulevard, paved with cobblestones, is a living museum of European architecture, lined with beautiful Baroque and Byzantine-style buildings. Today, these buildings house Russian restaurants, bakeries selling dark rye bread, and shops selling Russian nesting dolls.
Insider Tip:
The experience is most magical in the depths of winter, when the historic buildings are draped in snow and the street is decorated with elaborate ice sculptures. To warm up like a local, don't just get a hot drink. Join the queue for a famous Madieer ice cream popsicle. Yes, the beloved local tradition is to eat ice cream outside when it's -20°C (-4°F)!
