Why are Southeast Asian tourists enchanted by Harbin's ice and snow?

This screenshot shows the short dancing video posted by Indonesian TikTok influencer Ria Ricis, which has amassed 1.5 million likes.

By Heng Lihan

Nadia Jovita Injilia Riso, a tourist from Indonesia, had her long-cherished dream fulfilled when she visited the St. Sophia Cathedral in Harbin. She said that her trip here this winter was full of unexpected surprises, with the melodies, food, and welcoming locals leaving an unforgettable impression.

Harbin, located in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, has emerged as one of China's most popular winter travel destinations, drawing visitors worldwide. This year, it has seen a new wave of international tourists, with travelers eager to experience the city's historical and winter wonders, especially from Southeast Asian countries.

"Everything is a great experience because Indonesia is a tropical country and we don't have snow," Riso said, adding that the Harbin Ice-Snow World is on a friend's wish list, and she would recommend it to her, alongside other friends.

Tourists visit the Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world's largest ice-and-snow theme park, in Harbin, the capital city of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Yang Siqi)

The Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park, has welcomed over 1 million visitors in just 20 days since opening for the season on Dec. 21. Known for showcasing stunning ice sculptures and light displays, it has become a must-visit destination for travelers from the tropics.

Phichaya Panjama, from Thailand, gasped in front of an ice sculpture replica of the Grand Palace, which is the quintessence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture, and decoration. "Unlike the golden palace back in my home country, this one is crystal -- pure and dreamlike," Phichaya said as she explored the Ice-Snow World, "I can truly feel China's respect for different cultures.”

Tourists pose for photos at an architecture art square in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Jan. 13, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao)

Southeast Asia's burgeoning interest can be attributed to China's recent visa-free agreements with countries, including Singapore and Malaysia. Since February 2024, Singaporeans have been able to stay in China visa-free for up to 30 days. Malaysia and Thailand have also established mutual visa exemption policies with the country, making spontaneous trips a reality. 

Since Dec. 25, more than 20 chartered flights have shuttled between Harbin and Southeast Asia, and new regular flights on these routes have also brought more visitors.

Tourists visit the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao)

Moreover, social media platforms like RedNote, TikTok and YouTube have been instrumental in showcasing China's attractions. An Indonesian internet celebrity, Ria Ricis, who boasts over 46 million TikTok followers, posted a dancing video on TikTok. Shot right in front of the Ice-Snow World, the video has amassed a staggering 1.5 million likes. Among the comments, one reads, "Harbin is my favorite city! I must go this winter!"

Internet celebrities such as Ria Ricis play a pivotal role by sharing their experiences online. Their posts not only spotlight Harbin's unique charm but also expand the city's allure, making Harbin increasingly appealing to a global audience.

Nga Kor Ming, Minister of Housing and Local Government of Malaysia, expressed his admiration for Harbin in an exclusive interview with Xinhua. He said he was impressed by the city’s thriving ice and snow economy and its rich cultural heritage, looking forward to fostering closer ties and deeper connections.

According to statistics of Harbin Cultural and Tourism Bureau, from Nov. 1, 2024 to January 7, 2025, the city received 18.6 percent more visitors than the same period last year with the surge of foreign tourists up by 41.1 percent year on year. Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, ROK and Indonesia are currently the top five sources of international tourists in Harbin, according to Ctrip, one of China's leading online travel agencies.

An aerial drone photo taken on Dec. 17, 2024 shows a giant snowman in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (Xinhua/Zhang Tao)