During the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculture Festival, many travelers routinely add China's Snow Town (Xuexiang) to their itineraries. But is this remote village in the Hailin Forestry Bureau really worth the journey? Here’s an honest look at what awaits you.

Why China's Snow Town Is Worth the Trip

Unparalleled Snow Scenery – Unlike Anywhere Else

Nestled in the Zhangguangcai Mountains at the intersection of cold air from Siberia and warm currents from the Sea of Japan, Snow Town experiences snowfall for up to seven months a year. With an average snow thickness of 2 meters (6.6 feet) in winter, the village is transformed into a white fairy wonderland. What makes it truly unique is the snow itself – exceptionally sticky and viscosity-rich, it piles up on roofs and fences in rounded, mushroom-like shapes that hang over the edges without falling. As one traveler put it, “China Snow Town is way more stunning in person than in pictures – it literally feels like stepping into the Asian version of Santa‘s Village.”

Magical by Day, Enchanting by Night

By day, China's Snow Town is a pristine winter postcard. But the real magic happens after dark. The warm red glow of Chinese lanterns against the pristine white snow creates a breathtaking contrast that one visitor described as “peak romance.” The elevated Plank Road offers panoramic views of the entire village bathed in a gorgeous orange glow in the late afternoon – “so photogenic you won’t be able to stop snapping pics.”

More Than Just Snow – A Full Experience

Today’s Snow Town is far from a “get off, take photos, get back on the bus” destination. The main street comes alive with cultural performances, and the village even hosts outdoor DJ parties right in the square. The 2025–2026 winter season saw the village operate for 107 days and receive over 1.52 million visitors. New attractions introduced for the season include a giant 16-meter snowman and a “Fun Play Team” of 32 snowmen in various expressions.

Improved Services – From Cold to Comfortable

China's Snow Town has worked hard to shed its past reputation. On-site service stations offer free hot ginger tea and soy milk – over 13,000 jin (6.5 tons) of ginger tea was distributed to visitors this season. Staff wear glowing name tags reading “Ask Me for Help” and are available throughout the village. The village has also implemented a star-rating system for its 148 guesthouses and hotels, with a public “red-and-black list” to encourage quality service.

A Filming Location with Storybook Charm

China's Snow Town has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV dramas, including The Last Emperor, The Taking of Tiger Mountain, and Cliff Walkers. Walking down Xueyun Street (Snow Charm Avenue), you’re walking through living history – the village was once a logging community of the Shuangfeng Forest Farm, and its transformation into a tourist destination is itself a story of Northeast China‘s economic evolution.

What You Should Know Before You Go

It’s Not Cheap. Due to its remote location and short operating season, accommodation and food in Snow Town are pricier than outside. During peak season (December to February), rooms range from about 300 to 800 RMB per night, with an entrance fee of approximately 120–155 RMB. Budget around 800–1,100 RMB per person for a two-day, one-night trip.

Book Early – or Miss Out. For travel during January and February, accommodation must be booked 2–3 months in advance. The village also operates a timed-entry reservation system – you can’t simply show up and buy a ticket on the day.

Beware of Cheap Tour Traps. Some low-cost tour groups resort to hard-selling add-on activities once you‘re on the bus. Opt for officially recommended tour packages or plan your own independent trip.

Pack for Extreme Cold. Temperatures range from -20°C to -30°C. Layer up with thermal underwear, a windproof down jacket, insulated snow boots, gloves, earmuffs, and heat packs. Phone and camera batteries drain fast in extreme cold – keep your power bank in an inner pocket to stay warm.

Getting There.  The town is about 280 km (174 miles) from Harbin, a 5.5- to 6-hour drive through icy mountain roads. There is no railway connecting Harbin and China's Snow Town, so your only options are a long-distance bus or a chartered vehicle arranged by a travel agency. The official “Long Yun” tourist shuttle bus is a safe and budget-friendly choice for independent travelers, costing about 120 RMB one-way. However, for a completely hassle‑free experience, we highly recommend booking our Ice Festival Harbin tour package that includes Snow Town. Our package covers a private driver, vehicle, English‑speaking guide, entrance tickets, and even hotel accommodation – all at a competitive price. This saves you from the risks of price traps, hidden costs, and logistical headaches, ensuring you enjoy the fairy‑tale scenery without worrying about the details.

So, Is It Worth It?

If you‘re chasing a fairy-tale winter wonderland – absolutely. Snow Town’s scenery is one of a kind in China, if not the world. That feeling of “accidentally stepping into a fairy tale” is something you won‘t find elsewhere.

If you’re on a tight budget or hate crowds – think twice. Peak season brings nearly 20,000 visitors daily, and prices are steep.

If you do your homework and book smart – very much worth it. Book early, choose reputable accommodations, avoid peak holiday periods, and Snow Town will reward you with a winter dreamscape you‘ll never forget.

As one visitor summed it up: “China's Snow Town is one of those bucket-list spots you have to experience for yourself. The journey might be exhausting and freezing, but the breathtaking contrast of pure white snow and glowing red lanterns will make you completely forget about the cold.”