2. Yabuli Ski Resort

Excited visitors shoot down an ice slide.

It is located in a county 197 km east of Harbin and is the biggest and best natural skiing site in China. Imposing mountain ranges lavishly covered with pine forests surround the resort. It was the venue for the 1996 Asian Winter Games and the 2009 Winter Universiade, the two biggest winter sports events ever held in China, and now is the main training base for the national ski team. It is China's best in terms of snow quality, skiing trails and spectacular views. The main ski slope is 3,800 meters long with an altitude of 1,300 meters. Wild animals are frequently spotted on the site. The time to visit is between November and March.

3. Santa Sophia Cathedral

The church was built in 1907 by Russians and has become the most photographed building in Harbin. With a typical Byzantine style, it is the largest Orthodox Church in the Far East, and fits more than 2,000 people.

Its unique structure reflects mixture of Chinese and Russian culture in Harbin.

The main structure of the church is laid out as a Latin cross and has exquisite and radiant red walls inside.

The most eye-catching part are the ornate, huge 'blue onion' domes with four other domes around it.

At the top is a bell tower, with each of the seven bells representing a note and it can produce pleasant rhythms. Inside the church is a museum showcasing the multi-cultural history of Harbin.

4. Sun Island Park

This sandy island on the nort

Eight 'snow house' restaurants open their doors to   diners on Sun Island.

h shore of Songhua River is surrounded by crystal clear waters and lush forests. In winter, the snow-capped island is even more enchanting. The magical setting provides a picturesque view, and could easily be a real life replica of a well-crafted Chinese painting.

It has also become one of the venues for the snow sculpture festivities by gathering the world's best snow carvings. In summer, it is an ideal place for escaping the sweltering heat and taking a picnic.

5. Siberian Tiger Park

The park is the largest natural park for wild Siberian tigers in the world. There are more than 500 pure-bred Siberian tigers, with 100 visible to visitors. In addition, visitors can also see white tigers, lions, lynx, leopards and other big cats there.

Tourists take a bus, which is specially protected by wire mesh, and can see the tigers walking leisurely in their natural surroundings. Visitors can also buy live animals to feed them, including ducks, chickens and even cows.