Harbin Heilongjiang, China Travel Guide
Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB) serves as the main airport for the city and Heilongjiang Province. It offers a modern facility, handling both domestic and limited international flights. Two terminals, T1 and T2, cater to travelers.
HRB has a selection of facilities for travelers including shopping, dining, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi. Terminal 2 is the newer and larger facility.
Flight prices fluctuate significantly with seasons and Chinese national holidays. Book months in advance for peak periods.
Highest prices occur during Harbin International Ice Festival (late Dec-Feb) and major Chinese national holidays.
Lower prices are generally found during shoulder seasons (May-Jun, Sep) and low seasons (Mar-Apr, Nov-early Dec).
No specific exit fees or taxes for air or land departures from China are typically paid by individual travelers at the point of departure. These costs usually form a portion of your ticket prices.
For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours. Allow extra travel time to the airport, especially during peak traffic or winter weather.
Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes before departure. You will undergo ticket verification and security checks. Train stations might be busy.
Harbin boasts an excellent railway network, connecting it to cities across China. High-speed rail (HSR) and conventional rail options provide for different what you need for your trip. Harbin serves as a major railway hub in Northeast China.
Long-distance bus services connect Harbin to more compact cities and towns within Heilongjiang province and adjoining provinces. Several bus stations operate in Harbin, like Nangang Bus Station and Daoli Bus Station.
Foreigners cannot drive inside China with only an International Driving Permit (IDP). China does not recognize IDPs. A temporary Chinese driver's license is necessary for driving.
Road conditions on major highways in and around Harbin are generally good. Urban traffic can be dense and chaotic, especially during rush hours. Drivers may not always follow traffic rules strictly.
Harbin offers a comprehensive public transportation system which is both affordable and efficient. This involves a modern metro system and an extensive public bus system, covering the entire city.
Metro maps are readily available at all stations, often with English translations, and online via navigation apps. Harbin Rail Depot and Harbin West Railway Station serve as main transportation hubs.
Zhongyang Pedestrian Street (Central Street) is highly pedestrian-friendly. Stalin Park and Songhua River Embankment offer excellent routes for leisurely walks.
Harbin features bicycle sharing apps like Hellobike and Meituan Bike, usually requiring Chinese ID and local payment. Traditional rental shops exist near tourist areas.
The Songhua River Cableway connects Stalin Park to Sun Island, offering panoramic views. Tour buses for specific attractions are common, especially in winter.
Licensed taxis in Harbin are typically green or blue, displaying "出租车" (chūzūchē). Hail them on the street, find them at designated stands, or book via ride-sharing apps.
Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant ride-sharing app in China. It provides estimated fares upfront and tracks your journey, enhancing safety. The app offers an English version.
Designated taxi stands are available at Harbin Taiping International Airport and all major train stations.
Follow the signs to these official stands to confirm you get a licensed taxi.
For convenience, pre-booking a Didi upon arrival at the airport or station is a recommended option.
