Yunnan and Harbin are both popular destinations for winter travel in China. In Yunnan and Harbin, you can admire different winter views and explore diverse winter activities. Winter trips in Yunnan and Harbin have their own advantages. You can choose the one that you like from the following introduction.

Yunnan

In winter, Yunnan is popular for its mild climate. It is a good time to admire the scenery of snow mountains, glaciers and plateau lakes. During your Yunnan tours, you can enjoy the comfortable climate, capture the beautiful winter scenery and experience the local folk activities.

Yunnan Weather in Winter

In winter, the Yunnan weather is relatively mild compared to other places. The average temperature in Yunnan is between 10 to 20 ℃. At this time, the rainfall in most areas of Yunnan is relatively low. However, there is still a possibility of rain in the natural scenic area. And in winter, the temperature difference between day and night in Yunnan is relatively large. Please prepare warm clothes before traveling.

Popular Winter Attractions in Yunnan

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a famous snow mountain landscape in Yunnan province. It is composed of thirteen peaks with a total length of 75 kilometers. The alpine snow scenery here is located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters. Here admire the rolling snow mountains, magnificent glaciers and rich wildlife.

When it snows, the white snow and black rocks form a magnificent natural painting. In winter, the glacier scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain becomes more clearly visible. You can admire the meandering glaciers glittering under the sunlight. Also capture the scene of the primeval forest covered with snow.

Yuanyang Terraced Fields

The Yuanyang Terraced fields are wonders of agricultural civilization created by the Hani people over more than 1,300 years. The total area of terraced fields here is 170,000 mu, with a vertical drop of 1,500 meters. If you stand on the viewing platform, you will be surprised by the charming scenery formed by the rolling terraced fields and the distant mountains.

In winter, this area often forms a sea of clouds scenery. In the early morning, you can capture the wonderful scene formed by the golden sunlight, the flowing sea of clouds and the terraced fields.

Lugu Lake

Lugu Lake is a famous freshwater lake on the plateau in Yunnan, known as the “Pearl of the Plateau”. The mountains around Lugu Lake are mostly over 3,000 meters high in altitude, forming a unique landform. The water here is clear, reflecting the lush forests on both banks.

In winter, the scenery of Lugu Lake remains stunning. The water of Lugu Lake will not freeze completely. Walk along the lake to witness the shimmering water and the surrounding mountains. The morning mist scenery of Lugu Lake is also a major feature. On the winter morning, you can witness the scene of the morning mist enveloping the blue lake water.

Winter Activities in Yunnan

In winter, ethnic minorities in Yunnan have many traditional festivals and folk activities. The Winter Street Festival is a traditional winter festival of ethnic minorities such as the Yi, Miao and Naxi. Local people will serve ciba to guests to symbolize harvest. At night, people sing and dance around the bonfire, creating a lively atmosphere.

The Kuoshi Festival is the most grand traditional festival of the Lisu ethnic group, which falls on December 20th every year. During the festival, locals prepare sumptuous food and reunite with their families. Also hold traditional activities such as dancing and bamboo rafting.

Harbin

Located in Northeast China, Harbin is a famous ice and snow city. Harbin tours will take you to explore ice and snow art and interesting winter sports.

Harbin Weather in Winter

In winter, the weather in Harbin is very cold. The average temperature in winter ranges from -18℃ to -7℃. Influenced by the monsoon climate, Harbin experiences increased snowfall and windy weather. During your trip, you need to carry a thick coat, as well as hats, gloves, scarves. Although the weather outside is cold, the indoor heating in Harbin is very sufficient.

Popular Winter Attractions in Harbin

Harbin Ice and Snow World

The Ice and Snow World is one of the famous must-see attractions in Harbin. Here observe ice and snow carving art and experience interesting winter activities. Every winter, the staff use natural ice blocks to carve a variety of ice sculptures here. You can see various buildings constructed with ice blocks, including classic architectures from both China and abroad.

At night, colorful lights shine on the ice sculptures of various shapes, creating a dreamy scene. The theme of the light show varies every year, so you can learn about the diverse local cultures. Also experience thrilling ice sports activities. Ice slides, ice bumper cars and ice bicycles are all popular activities.

Sun Island Scenic Area

Sun Island is a scenic area of Harbin's ice and snow culture. Sun Island is divided into three areas, including the natural scenery area, the cultural exhibition area and the recreational area. Every winter, Sun Island holds a snow sculpture exhibition. These snow sculptures come in various forms. You will witness these spectacular snow sculpture artworks in various places of the scenic area.

The natural scenery of Sun Island in winter is very charming. The wonderful buildings and lush trees are covered with snow. The frozen lake surface reflects the blue sky and white clouds. Besides, experience various winter activities, such as ice skating on the lake and go hiking through the vast snowfields.

Zhongyang Street

Zhongyang Street is one of the earliest pedestrian streets in China. Most of the buildings on both sides of the street were constructed in the early 20th century, showing various European architectural styles such as Baroque and eclecticism. Modern Hotel is one of the most representative buildings on Zhongyang Street. Entering the hotel, you can learn about the development history of this street.

Every winter, various styles of ice sculptures can also be seen on the Zhongyang Street. Wander along the street to explore a variety of local shops and taste delicious snacks. As night falls, you can watch lively street performances. After it snows, you can also enjoy the beautiful winter scenery of the city.

Winter Activities in Harbin

Yabuli Skiing Center is one of the famous ski resorts in Harbin. The terrain here is diverse, providing an advantage for the ski trails. As the largest ski resort in Asia, it attracts countless tourists to experience winter sports. There are a total of 11 ski trails, including advanced, intermediate and beginner levels.

For beginners, professional coaches can be hired for guidance. Beginners can practice on the gentle slopes specially designed for them. Skiing enthusiasts can try advanced ski trails. The ski trails here have steep slopes and changeable curves, providing an exciting experience. Besides, there are other ice and snow sports here. Traditional activities such as snowmobiles, ice skating on the lake and making snowmen are also very interesting.

Summary

In winter, you can explore diverse winter tours in Yunnan and Harbin. If you want to escape the cold and enjoy the natural scenery, you can choose a trip to Yunnan. If you want to witness ice and snow art and experience thrilling activities, you can choose a trip to Harbin.